News|ObituariesLeila Shahid, Palestinian diplomat, dies in France aged 76Tributes pour in for former Palestinian envoy to France and EU, remembered as ‘voice for justice, freedom and peace’.
Leila Shahid, the pioneering female diplomat representing Palestine internationally, has passed away at the age of 76. Her family reported that she died at her residence in southern France on Wed, Feb 17, 2026.
Leila Shahid, the pioneering female diplomat representing Palestine internationally, has passed away at the age of 76. Her family reported that she died at her residence in southern France on Wed, Feb 17, 2026.
Born in Beirut in 1949, Shahid studied at the American University of Beirut. She began her diplomatic career in 1989 as a representative of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) in Ireland. She later served in the Netherlands and Denmark. Between 1994 and 2005, she held the position of Palestinian ambassador to France, subsequently becoming the envoy to the European Union, Belgium, and Luxembourg.
Throughout her career, Shahid was a vocal advocate for Palestinian self-determination and justice. Her colleagues have highlighted her dedication and influence in shaping Palestine's diplomatic efforts. Her passing is regarded as a significant loss to the international community advocating for justice and peace.
Hala Abou-Hassira, the Palestinian ambassador to France, and Majed Bamya, the deputy Palestinian envoy to the United Nations, have both paid tribute to Shahid, acknowledging her as a vital voice for freedom and justice. Hussam Zumlot, the Palestinian ambassador to the United Kingdom, described her as an inspiring figure in Palestinian diplomacy.
Leila Shahid, the pioneering female diplomat representing Palestine internationally, has passed away at the age of 76.
Shahid (centre) alongside Yasser Arafat, right, and then-French President Jacques Chirac in 2000 at the Elysee Palace in Paris [File: AFP]
In a recent interview, Shahid emphasized the importance of international recognition of a Palestinian state, advocating for self-determination amidst ongoing challenges faced by Palestinians. Her commitment to addressing the conditions in Gaza and the West Bank was evident in her continued advocacy against occupation.
Abou-Hassira remarked on Shahid's unwavering belief in justice, stating that her legacy will be a guiding force for future efforts towards dignity and truth for Palestine.
Shahid meets people gathered in front of a military hospital near Paris as Yasser Arafat was being treated in 2004 [File: AFP]
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
