UN chief slams Israeli approval of plans for new settlements in East Jerusalem

UNITED NATIONS, March 9 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon Tuesday lashed out at the Israeli approval of plans for the building of1,600 new housing units in East Jerusalem, reiterating that "settlements are illegal under international law."

A statement, issued here by Ban's spokesman on Tuesday night, said, "The secretary-general condemns the approval of plans for the building of

1,600 new housing units in East Jerusalem by the Israeli Ministry of Interior earlier today. He reiterates that settlements are illegal under international law."

"Furthermore, he underscores that settlement activity is contrary to Israel's obligations under the Roadmap, and undermines any movement towards a viable peace process," the statement said.

Israel approved on Tuesday building 1,600 new settler homes in East Jerusalem, announcing the move as U.S. Vice President Joe Biden met top Israeli officials to boost renewed peace efforts.

The Israeli announcement came at a time when both Israelis and Palestinians agreed to indirect talks, and the Mideast Quartet, which groups Russia, the United States, the European Union and the United Nations, is scheduled to meet in Moscow on March 19 to push forward the peace process.

The controversial move angered Biden, who issued a statement condemning the Israeli decision.