The embassy of Palestine was officially inaugurated in London on Monday, a milestone hailed by its ambassador as a “profound milestone” in British-Palestinian relations.

“We gather today to mark a historic moment - the inauguration of the embassy of the State of Palestine to the United Kingdom, with full diplomatic status and privileges,” said Ambassador Husam Zomlot outside what was previously the Palestinian Mission to the UK in west London.

The mission’s upgrade to embassy status followed the UK’s recognition of the State of Palestine in September 2025, alongside countries including Australia and Canada, amid global concern over Gaza’s humanitarian situation.

Sporting a traditional black-and-white keffiyeh scarf, Zomlot said the move was “not merely a change of name,” but a “change of direction” toward Palestinian statehood.

“What a way to begin a new year together, marking a profound milestone in the British-Palestinian relations, and in the Palestinian people's long journey to freedom and self-determination,” he said before unveiling the embassy’s new plaque.

“This is a day of hope, a day of steadfastness, and a day that reminds the world that peace is not only possible, it is inevitable... when rooted in justice, dignity, equality and mutual recognition.”

The UK Foreign Ministry did not immediately respond to an AFP request for comment on whether it plans to open a British embassy in the Palestinian territories.

UK diplomatic representative Alistair Harrison, speaking after Zomlot with Palestinian and British flags behind him, called the occasion a “moment of hope.”

“This is the beginning of a step change in our bilateral relationship,” he said.

“I wish you ambassador, and your team, a very happy stay in what is now your embassy, and congratulations.”

A fragile ceasefire has been in place in Gaza since October, following a devastating Israeli response to Hamas’s deadly October 7, 2023, attack on Israel.