Palestine flag suggestion for iPhone users typing ‘Jerusalem’ causes stir

Tech giant Apple has sparked a wave of both criticism and support after iPhone users discovered that the Palestinian flag automatically flashes up as a suggested emoji when some users type "Jerusalem" on their keyboards.

Several iPhone users noted the emoji following a software update, which the company has claimed is the result of a bug and will be changed with the next update. But social media erupted over the news.

The status of Jerusalem has long been a matter of contention. 

In 1967, Israel occupied and annexed the eastern part of the city - which Palestinians claim as the capital of a future state - in a move that has never been recognised by the international community or international law.

Israel, however, claims the entire city as its "eternal and united" capital, which is why the update has caused outrage among pro-Israel commentators.

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