Catherine Connolly defends Hamas remarks, insists both Israel and Hamas must be held to account

Independent candidate Catherine Connolly said both Israel and Hamas must disarm, while insisting Palestinians have the right to self-determination

Presidential candidate Catherine Connolly. Picture: Niall Carson/PA Wire

Independent presidential candidate Catherine Connolly has addressed comments she made about Hamas, saying both sides must be held to account.

Ms Connolly described the Palestinian militant group as "part of the fabric of the Palestinian people" during an interview on Monday.