The Palestinian flag was raised at the newly established Palestinian Embassy in London, marking a historic step in British foreign policy. This development followed the United Kingdom’s formal recognition of the State of Palestine, a decision that aligns with similar moves from other European nations.
For the first time, the building that once served as the Palestinian Mission now holds full diplomatic status. The symbolic ceremony was hailed as a significant moment for Palestinians who have long demanded international recognition of their statehood.
Palestinian Ambassador Highlights Justice and Human Rights
During the event, Palestinian Ambassador to the UK Husam Zomlot emphasized that the recognition carried deep meaning. He described it as an acknowledgment of freedom, dignity, and human rights, while also being a step toward correcting historical wrongs.
Zomlot stressed that recognition came at a time of great suffering. He condemned the ongoing war in Gaza, where families face bombings, starvation, and mass displacement. He also pointed to violence and oppression in the West Bank, where Palestinians continue to face land seizures, ethnic cleansing, and systemic brutality.
According to Zomlot, the recognition is not just symbolic. It represents a commitment to ending decades of injustice while affirming Palestinians’ right to self-determination. He warned that recognition alone is insufficient unless backed by international action to stop the violence and secure freedom for Palestinians.
Calls for Action Beyond Symbolism
Human rights groups welcomed the UK’s decision but described it as a delayed step. They cautioned that symbolic declarations cannot erase years of Western complicity in the suffering of Palestinians. Activists stressed that real change requires dismantling the Israeli occupation and addressing what they describe as a system of apartheid.
In Gaza, residents viewed the recognition as a rare ray of hope. Yet many urged the international community to move beyond words. They called for immediate measures to stop bloodshed, ensure accountability, and guarantee Palestinian independence.
International Support and Divided Responses
On the same day, France confirmed its recognition of the Palestinian state. Paris illuminated the Eiffel Tower with the flags of both Palestine and Israel, highlighting support for a two-state solution. French President Emmanuel Macron underscored that “every life in Gaza is equal” and acknowledged that Israel’s military campaign had failed to eliminate Hamas, despite heavy casualties.
Meanwhile, the Israeli military announced the killing of Iyad Abu Yousuf, deputy head of Hamas’ naval police, in an airstrike. However, medical sources reported that at least 29 Palestinians were killed across Gaza in a single day, including 25 in Gaza City.
The raising of the Palestinian flag in London represents more than diplomatic symbolism. It reflects growing international recognition of Palestinian statehood amid ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis. For Palestinians, the move offers hope but also highlights the urgent need for global action to secure justice, dignity, and lasting peace.
