The bid for Palestinian statehood at the UN launched by Mahmoud Abbas has led to pro-Israeli politicians in the US to take action. br br The US politicians are using legislative efforts to delay the delivery of $200m in economic aid - earmarked for food, healthcare and infrastructure projects - to Palestinians. br br This has drawn sharp criticism by Barack Obama, the US President's, administration. Palestinian officials are calling the decision "counter productive to [Middle East] peace efforts". br br Al Jazeera's Kimberly Halkett reports from Washington.