Leila Shahid, Former Palestinian Delegate to France and EU, Dies at 76
Paris, February 18, 2026
Leila Shahid, the former General Delegate of Palestine to France and the European Union, passed away on Wednesday, February 18, at the age of 76. A prominent diplomat and a historic advocate for Palestinian rights, she had been battling illness for several months and was residing in the south of France at the time of her death.
Leila Shahid was widely regarded as one of the most influential Palestinian diplomatic figures in Europe. Over decades of public service, she became a recognizable and respected voice for the Palestinian cause across European political institutions and civil society.
A Close Associate of Yasser Arafat
Shahid was a close associate of Yasser Arafat, the late leader of the Palestine Liberation Organization. Her diplomatic mission was deeply connected to the broader political vision of Palestinian statehood that Arafat championed on the international stage.
Throughout her tenure, she played a key role in strengthening political dialogue between Palestinian representatives and European officials. Serving as the Palestinian representative to the European Union in Brussels and later as General Delegate to France, Shahid became an essential bridge between Palestinian leadership and European policymakers.
A Distinguished Diplomatic Career
Born in Beirut in 1949 to a prominent Palestinian family, Leila Shahid dedicated much of her life to international diplomacy and advocacy. Her work in France was particularly notable, where she maintained strong relationships with political leaders, intellectuals, and media outlets.
In Paris, she became one of the most visible figures representing Palestinian interests, engaging regularly in debates, interviews, and public forums. Her articulate defense of Palestinian self-determination earned her both admiration and criticism, reflecting the complexity and sensitivity of Middle Eastern politics in Europe.
Tributes and Legacy
Following the announcement of her death, tributes poured in from political figures, diplomats, and activists who recognized her decades of commitment to the Palestinian cause. Many described her as a tireless advocate for peace, dialogue, and international recognition of Palestinian rights.
Her passing marks the end of an era in Palestinian diplomacy in Europe. Leila Shahid leaves behind a legacy defined by resilience, conviction, and unwavering dedication to her people’s aspirations.
As the Middle East continues to face political uncertainty, her influence on European-Palestinian relations remains significant. Her diplomatic footprint in France and the European Union will be remembered as part of a crucial chapter in modern Palestinian history.
Paris Telegraph News Room
