The State of Palestine officially opened its embassy in the United Kingdom on Monday, more than three months after London formally recognized Palestinian statehood, in what Palestinian officials described as a historic milestone in bilateral relations.
Palestinian Ambassador Husam Zomlot, who previously headed the Palestinian diplomatic mission, said the move marked the establishment of full diplomatic status and authority. Speaking at the ceremony, he said the opening of the embassy represented an important moment for UK-Palestinian relations and for the Palestinian people’s long pursuit of freedom and self-determination.
The embassy plaque was unveiled at the new premises in Hammersmith, west London. Zomlot said the embassy stands as proof for Palestinians in Gaza, the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, refugee camps and the wider diaspora that their identity cannot be erased, adding that it also reflects a renewed commitment to a just and lasting peace rooted in international law and universal values.
Representing King Charles III, Alistair Harrison described the opening as a historic moment for Palestine and the beginning of a significant new chapter in already close bilateral relations.
The United Kingdom formally recognized the State of Palestine in September, following nearly two years of devastating war in Gaza that began after the unprecedented attack by Hamas on Israel on 7 October 2023.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the decision was intended to revive hope for peace and a two-state solution. The move was coordinated with other countries, including France, Canada, and Australia.
Israel strongly criticized the decision, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu describing it as a reward for terrorism. Despite the criticism, the opening of the Palestinian embassy in London signals a notable diplomatic shift and places the Palestinian issue back at the center of international attention.
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