GAZA: Palestinians have officially revived their bid for a full member state in the United Nations a process with an uncertain outcome but one they say is necessary in the face of Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

Palestine, which has had observer status at the world body since 2012, has lobbied for years to gain full membership, which would amount to recognition of Palestinian statehood.

In a letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, dated Tuesday and seen by AFP, UN envoy Riyad Mansour requested “upon instructions of the Palestinian leadership” that an application dating back to 2011 be reconsidered.

The letter has been transmitted to the UNSC, and the Palestinians have asked that it be reviewed this month, according to the documents seen by AFP.

Malta, which holds the rotating UNSC presidency, said Mansour’s letter was “received and circulated” to council members, adding that talks would be held “on a way forward.” The League of Arab States, the Organisation of the Islamic Conference and the Non-Aligned Movement sent a letter to Guterres on Tuesday, also seen by AFP, supporting the bid by Palestinians.