In pictures: Palestinian joy

1 of 8 Palestinians awoke to the confirmation that Mahmoud Abbas would be their new president.

2 of 8 Members of Mr Abbas's Fatah organisation showed their delight in traditional fashion in the Gaza Strip.

3 of 8 Palestinian refugees abroad - like these in Lebanon - joined in the celebrations.

4 of 8 Mr Abbas - known as Abu Mazen - is expected to be sworn in on Wednesday.

5 of 8 Some supporters did not wait for the official result. This fan embraced Mr Abbas on Sunday night, as exit polls predicted his victory.

6 of 8 Celebrations broke out overnight across the Palestinian territories, including Jenin in the West Bank.

7 of 8 In Ramallah, Mr Abbas's base, his backers had their party planned in advance.

8 of 8 There are hopes among Palestinians that Mr Abbas can bring them peace. Their new leader has suggested he wants to meet the Israeli prime minister as soon as possible.