UN Security Council to ballot on halting Israel settlements

The United Nation Security Council will vote on an Egyptian-drafted resolution challenging that Israel immediately halt its settlement activities in the Palestinian territories and east Jerusalem.

A alike resolution was vetoed by the United States in 2011.It continued uncertain if the measure would be adopted this time.

Egypt dispersed the draft late yesterday and a vote was scheduled for 3 pm today.

The UN upholds that settlements are illegal and has repeatedly called on Israel to halt them, but UN officials have reported a surge in construction over the past months.

The draft purpose demanded that Israel immediately and completely cease all settlement actions in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem.

Israeli clearances are seen as major stumbling block to peace efforts as they are built on land the Palestinians see as part of their future state.