The Palestinian Mission to the United Kingdom held a special ceremony on Monday that included raising the Palestinian flag in London a day after the UK said that it recognized Palestinian statehood.

Britain on Sunday joined other countries such as Australia and Canada in officially recognizing a Palestinian state ahead of the UN General Assembly meetings this week during which the Palestinian plight and Israel’s offensive in Gaza are expected to be highlighted.

The UK’s decision carried particular symbolism given its major role in Israel’s creation as a modern nation in the aftermath of World War Two.

With this move, Britain has made right “the wrongs of the past, recognizing Palestine as a state with equal rights and sovereignty,” Husam Zomlot, head of the Palestinian mission said on Sunday after the announcement was made. He said it was a “long overdue acknowledgement” to the right of self-determination and a realization that peace will can only come when Palestine is free.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the decision on Sunday.

“Today, to revive the hope of peace for the Palestinians and Israelis, and a two-state solution, the United Kingdom formally recognizes the State of Palestine,” Starmer said.

“The man-made humanitarian crisis in Gaza reaches new depths. The Israeli government’s relentless and increasing bombardment of Gaza, the offensive of recent weeks, the starvation and devastation are utterly intolerable.”