JERUASLEM, April 5, 2011 (WAFA) - The United Nations Tuesday criticized Israeli settlement plans in East Jerusalem and the West Bank calling them illegal.

Richard Miron, spokesman for UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Robert Serry, said in a statement that the UN opposes Israeli settlement activity.

“We reiterate that Israeli settlement activity anywhere in occupied territory, including in East Jerusalem, is illegal and contrary to the roadmap,” he said.

“We call on the Israeli government to halt further planning for new settlement units, which undermines efforts to bring about resumed Israeli-Palestinian negotiations and prejudices final status discussions,” he said.

Israel announced on Monday plans to build some 1000 new housing units in settlements in the East Jerusalem area and plans to expand four settlements in the West Bank.

M.A.