London: The United Kingdom confirmed the opening of a Palestinian embassy in London four months after its recognition of the State of Palestine. "We welcome the establishment of full diplomatic relations with the state of Palestine and I can confirm the establishment of a Palestinian embassy in London today," British Minister of State for the Middle East and North Africa, Hamish Faulkner, told members of the House of Commons.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the UK has officially recognized the State of Palestine to protect the two-state solution and create a path toward lasting peace in the region. Faulkner also described the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip as catastrophic, noting that more than half a million Palestinians are struggling to secure enough food, while at least one hundred thousand others are living in dire conditions.
He also warned that the main crossing remains closed, with convoys being turned back and medical shelters and supplies blocked from the area. There is also a ban on NGOs despite the pledge under the peace plan not to interfere with convoy transports. Faulkner added, "Paradoxically, this means that it is easier to bring cigarettes and luxury goods into Gaza than to bring in the basic materials that the population desperately needs."
The UK government has committed to providing necessary support to the people of Gaza, with GBP 116 million (USD 156.5 million) allocated as humanitarian aid, including healthcare, food, clean water, and sanitation.