The UN Security Council has begun reconsidering the Palestinian request to become a full member of the global body after a hiatus of 13 years.

The request was initially submitted in September 2011 but talks stalled as the United States, which holds veto power and backs Israel, protested.

The Palestinians, currently a non-member observer, sent a letter to the Security Council and others on April 2, seeking the resumption of talks.

Malta's UN Ambassador Vanessa Frazier, who is the Security Council president for April, told reporters after a closed-door meeting on Monday that talks will be held this month.

US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield said Washington's position remains unchanged.

To acquire full membership, the five permanent members of the Security Council must refrain from using their veto and at least nine members must vote in favor. If the application passes, two-thirds or more of the general assembly must then vote to approve the move.

The differences between the United States and Arab countries are expected to deepen over this debate.