Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas making a speech in Ramallah
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Mahmoud Abbas receives a hero's welcome in Ramallah

The Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has returned to the West Bank following his efforts in persuading the United Nations to recognise Palestine as a "non-member observer state".

Crowds gathered in Ramallah to give the president a hero's welcome celebrating the upgraded status.

The Palestinians can now take part in UN debates and potentially join bodies like the International Criminal Court.

Israel strongly opposed the move and since the vote has announced plans to build 3,000 more settler homes in east Jerusalem.

Yolande Knell reports.

  • 02 Dec 2012