The United Nations has voted in favour of raising a flag of Palestine at its headquarters in New York City in a symbolic move highlighting Palestinian aspirations for statehood.
The resolution was adopted on Thursday evening with 119 votes in favour, while eight voting against – including Israel and the United States.
The text allows the flags of Palestine and the Holy See – both of which have non-member observer status – to be hoisted alongside those of the member states.
European nations were divided on the move with France and Sweden voting in favor while others such as Germany, Austria, Finland, the Netherlands and Cyprus abstained.
The UN has 20 days to implement the move, in time for a visit by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on September 30.
