“Important announcement,” a sign declares. The Palestine Mission to the UK stands before us. It plays a vital role in Palestinian-United Kingdom relations. Let’s delve into its story.
The UK does not officially recognize Palestine as a state. However, the UK maintains a Consulate General in Jerusalem. This consulate represents the UK government in Jerusalem. It also covers the West Bank and Gaza. The consulate works on political, commercial, security, and economic interests. These interests exist between the UK and the Palestinian territories.
Husam Zomlot became head of the Palestine Mission to the United Kingdom in 2018. Before this role, Dr. Zomlot served as Strategic Affairs Advisor. He advised the Palestinian president. He was also Ambassador to the United States. He headed the PLO General Delegation to the United States.
Before Zomlot, Manuel Hassassian represented the State of Palestine in London. He served as the Palestinian General Delegate to the United Kingdom from 2005 to 2018. Afif Safieh also served as a former Palestinian General Delegate to the UK. He began his role in 1990.
The Palestine Mission has several departments. These include the Political Department. There is also a Trade Department. A Cultural Department exists too. Finally, there is a Civil Society Department.
The UK House of Commons voted in favor of recognizing Palestine as a state in 2014. This was seen as a contribution to a negotiated two-state solution. However, the UK government has reserved the right to recognize Palestine. They will do so bilaterally at an opportune time for peace efforts.
The Palestinian Mission to the UK is located at 5 Galena Rd, Hammersmith, London, W6 0LT. During the COVID-19 pandemic, its opening hours were Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 15:00. Currently, due to security precautions, no bags or luggage are allowed inside.
In February 2021, the British Consul-General in Jerusalem condemned settlements. These settlements are in the Israeli-occupied territories. He called them illegal. He also stated that they were an obstacle to restarting peace talks. That same month, a court in Nablus ruled the Balfour Declaration invalid. They called on the British government to apologize.
Trade between the Palestinian Authority and the UK is significant. In 2022, the trade value was worth £69 million. A continuity trade agreement exists between the UK and the Palestinian Authority. This agreement came into force on January 1, 2021.
In January 2024, Foreign Secretary David Cameron suggested the UK could formally recognize Palestine. This recognition would occur during negotiations for a peace deal. This involves the Israel–Hamas war. Palestinian Ambassador Husam Zomlot welcomed this consideration.
The Palestine Mission continues to advocate for Palestinian rights. It also seeks a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It stands as a symbol of Palestinian representation. It fosters relations between Palestine and the United Kingdom.