Palestinian state recognised by Ireland, what comes next?

Khalid El-Estal was born in Belfast and attended primary school in the city. His family relocated to Gaza when he was aged eight.

His wife and other family members were killed in Gaza last year.

Mr El-Estal, who now lives in Dublin with his children, told BBC News NI the decision to recognise a Palestinian state was a “great step”.

“It translates the solidarity shown by the Irish government,” he said.

“It means a lot.

“It will encourage more countries and put pressure on Israel to stop the war.”

Zaid Al-Barghouthi, who is a vice-president for campaigns in the Union for Students in Ireland, said he had mixed feelings about the move.

His parents are Palestinian and he grew up in Jordan, moving to the Republic of Ireland to study.

“I have two reactions to this. First is my personal reaction: for the most part it is a positive reaction – there is a realisation that we are part of the solution to the war. But it does feel out of place for now,” he said.