University lecturers have voted to boycott two of Israel's eight universities over their alleged complicity with Israeli persecution of Palestinians.

The Association of University Teachers voted to sever links with Haifa University and Bar Ilan University, accusing them of colluding in a system of "apartheid" that victimised Palestinians and anyone who opposed the Israeli state.

There were cheers as the two motions were passed. But the 200-strong audience rejected a call to boycott the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, which is accused of demolishing Palestinian homes in order to expand its campus. Delegates instead voted for a decision to be postponed to allow for an investigation.