The United Nations General Assembly has voted to raise the Palestinian flag at UN headquarters, in what represents a significant victory for Palestinian claims for international recognition.

Member states adopted the resolution by a vote of 119 to eight. Israel and the US voted against the motion, while 45 nations abstained.

The flag of the Vatican will also fly at the UN headquarters, with both now allowed fly despite being non-member observers at the General Assembly.

AFP reports that Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas is to visit the UN at the end of the month, by when the flag should be flying.

“It is a symbolic thing, but another step to solidify the pillars of the state of Palestine in the international arena," Riyad Mansour, Palestinian representative to the UN said.

Palestinian prime minister Rami Hamdallah said the vote is "a step on the road towards Palestine becoming a full member of the United Nations."