Trinidad and Tobago is among 143 countries that voted in favour of a resolution to expand Palestine’s “rights and privileges” at the United Nations.

There were also nine voting against, and 25 abstentions.

Addressing the General Assembly was Israel’s ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan, who insisted that the vote will help “advance the establishment of a Palestinian terror state”.

He also shredded a copy of the UN Charter – accusing members of metaphorically doing just that by passing the resolution.

Also speaking to the General Assembly was the Palestinian ambassador to the UN Riyad Mansour who insisted “voting “Yes” is the right thing to do and I can assure you, you and your country for years to come will be proud to have stood for freedom, justice and peace in this darkest hour.”

The vote was as follows:

So what does this vote mean?

Palestine has had non-member observer state status since 2012, which allows some rights short of a full member.

Membership can only be decided upon by the UN Security Council, and the US recently vetoed a bid for full membership.

BBC News says today’s vote can be seen as a gesture of support for the Palestinians, and a call for it to be accepted as a member.

It also enhances Palestine’s rights within the UN.