UNSC mulls slapping sanctions on Sudan

The council held its first talks on the draft last week and diplomats said that opposition to the measure was stronger than had been expected, even though the United States vowed to press ahead with council action within days.

"At least all the Europeans and the Americans are united," said a Security Council diplomat who asked not to be named. "That's worth noting."

But sources said Pakistan and Algeria had led calls for the Sudanese government to first be given a chance to make good on pledges to rein in the militias behind the bloodshed and chaos in the giant western region.

The council will hold more talks on the resolution Wednesday, a day before a new monitoring mechanism set up with UN help will examine Sudan's progress in carrying out its vows, diplomats said.

During a recent visit by UN Secretary General Kofi Annan, Sudanese President Omar al-Behsir promised to disarm the so-called Janjaweed militias, start political talks with rebels and improve access for aid workers.