UNSC to discuss Palestine application

UNITED NATIONS - The UN Security Council will hold consultations on Palestine's application to become a UN member state on Monday, according to Lebanese Ambassador Nawaf Salam, the president of the council this month.

Palestinian National Authority President Mahmoud Abbas on Friday submitted an official request to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon for full Palestinian membership.

Many considered the move a brave challenge to the United States and Israel, who are opposed to the bid.