Palestine officially inaugurates its embassy in London
The State of Palestine officially inaugurated its embassy in the United Kingdom on Monday, more than three months after London formally recognized Palestinian statehood, marking what officials described as a historic milestone.
“We are gathered today to mark a historic moment: the inauguration of the Embassy of the State of Palestine in the United Kingdom, with full diplomatic status and authority,” said Husam Zomlot, who previously served as head of the Palestinian diplomatic mission.
According to Zomlot, the opening of the embassy represents a major step forward in British-Palestinian relations and a symbolic advancement in the Palestinian people’s long-standing pursuit of freedom and self-determination.
Located in Hammersmith, west London, the building now officially bears the plaque “Embassy of the State of Palestine,” unveiled during the ceremony.
“For generations of Palestinians in Gaza, the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, refugee camps, and throughout the diaspora, this embassy stands as proof that our identity cannot be denied,” Zomlot emphasized.
He added that the embassy embodies a commitment to pursuing a just and lasting peace, rooted in international law and universal values.
Representing King Charles III, Alistair Harrison described the inauguration as “a historic moment for Palestine” and “the beginning of a major shift” in already close bilateral relations.
The United Kingdom officially recognized the State of Palestine in September, nearly two years after the outbreak of the Gaza war triggered by the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on Israel. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the move aimed to revive hopes for peace and a two-state solution, a decision strongly criticized by Israel.
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