Israel approves building project in disputed east Jerusalem

The Palestinians claim east Jerusalem for a future capital and want all construction there stopped before negotiations resume. The project is being developed near a Jewish seminary by Irving Moskowitz, an American Jew who has generously funded Jewish settlers determined to cement Israel's hold on contested areas of the holy city.

Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat's spokesman, Stephan Miller, confirmed that Jerusalem's local planning committee approved the 24-apartment project on Monday, clearing the way for construction to begin.

Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat condemned the move "in the strongest possible terms." He said if Israel wants to resume peace talks, "they must announce a total cessation of settlement activities" in east Jerusalem and the West Bank. Israel committed to a full settlement freeze in 2003 under an internationally backed peace plan.