Voting in favor of raising Palestinian flag in UN step toward independent state

Voting in favor of allowing the Palestinian flag to be raised in the United Nations building alongside other states' flags is a significant move toward achieving the Palestinian independent state, on 1967 borders with the Al-Quds as a capital, the Fatah movement spokesman Ahmad Assaf said on Friday.

Despite being symbolic, the move culminated the sacrifices of the Palestinians, and their persistence in restoring their legitimate national rights, led by the return of refugees, the self-determination right, and establishing an independent state, Assaf said.

The spokesman praised the prudent leadership by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, which led to rejecting the Israeli occupation and internationally isolating Israel.

The UN General Assembly has overwhelmingly voted in favor of a motion allowing the Palestinian flag to be flown in front of UN buildings.

The motion was passed by 119 votes, with Israel and the US among the eight countries that voted against.