UK Hosts International Peace Fund Conference at Lancaster House; Palestine Embassy Opens in London

UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper hosted a conference at Lancaster House in London to advance the International Fund for Israeli-Palestinian Peace — fulfilling PM Keir Starmer's pledge to finance long-term Israeli-Palestinian civil society peacebuilding. The conference brought together Palestinian and Israeli civil society representatives to 'build common ground, challenge entrenched divisions, and work towards a future where both states can live side-by-side in peace and security,' drawing on the model of the International Fund for Ireland. UK polling showed 84% of respondents support creating the Fund and 73% want the UK to contribute at least £10 million. The Palestinian embassy in the UK officially opened in London, following UK diplomatic recognition of Palestine in September 2025. Simultaneously, the Palestine Solidarity Campaign held a 'Together for Palestine' march from Exhibition Road, Hyde Park, drawing thousands to central London.