Ambassador hails ‘historic’ inauguration of Palestinian embassy in London

The inauguration of a Palestinian embassy in London is “proof that our identity cannot be denied”, the country’s ambassador to the UK has said.

Ambassador Husam Zomlot hailed the upgrading of Palestine’s mission in Hammersmith as “historic” and “monumental”.

Speaking at a ceremony marking its inauguration as an embassy, he said: “This is not merely a change of name, and the plaque we will unveil shortly represents far more than formality.

“It is a change of direction, reflecting the reality we are living today, a reality that unequivocally recognises, at long last, our inalienable right to sovereign statehood.

The upgrading of the embassy, formally the Palestinian general delegation, follows the Government’s decision in September 2025 to recognise the state of Palestine in an effort to “protect the viability of a two-state solution” in the region.

Mr Zomlot said the move was the result of “100 years of relentless struggle”, but added that he felt “the shadow that hangs over us today” as people in Gaza were “living in hell”.

Saying he hoped one day to become a Palestinian ambassador, Obaidah said: “Having the embassy in the United Kingdom is very meaningful.

“It is a place where our people are seen, where our voices are heard, and where our hope for justice and dignity lives.”