Palestinians threaten to declare independence, seek UN recognition

Occupied Jerusalem: The Palestinians say they are so fed up with the lack of progress in peace efforts that they are preparing to declare independence unilaterally.

Chief Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat told Israel's Army Radio station Sunday that the Palestinians plan on asking the UN Security Council to recognise their independence.

Erekat declined to say when the Palestinians would turn to the council. Israeli media predicted that the US, Israel's key ally, would veto the move.

Erekat maintained that the Palestinians need to keep their hopes for independence alive.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has urged the Palestinians to launch peace talks with him. The Palestinians refuse, saying Netanyahu must first stop building settlements on lands they claim.