On the ground, Israel's offensive in the south of Gaza is expanding. The humanitarian situation has been worsening despite the UNSC resolution. This has led to Aid delivery being hampered in the besieged strip. Watch for more updates.

Israel-Hamas war: Attack on Nuseirat refugee camp on Saturday

The UNSC Gaza aid resolution aims to boost humanitarian aid to Gaza. The United Nations Security Council on Friday approved a toned-down bid to boost humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip and called for urgent steps "to create the conditions for a sustainable cessation of hostilities" after a week of vote delays and intense negotiations to avoid a veto by the United States. Watch to know more!

UNSC Gaza Aid Resolution: UNSC approves Gaza aid resolution

Israel-Hamas war: Over 20,000 killed & 53,000 wounded in Gaza

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: The Palestine Red Crescent Society said it had received 70 trucks carrying humanitarian aid. The trucks entered the enclave through Egypt's Rafah border crossing.

Israel-Hamas war: 70 Humanitarian Aid trucks enter Gaza through Rafah crossing

With support dwindling from the Western allies, Ukraine is facing an ammunition and funding crunch. But now a silver lining could be seen emerging as Japan is now sending patriot air defence missiles to the United States. This could free the US to send weapons from its own stockpiles to Kyiv.

Japan to send patriot missiles to the United States

Updates coming in from the Israel-Hamas War where fighting has escalated in Gaza during the last 24 hours and amid ongoing negotiation efforts. A United Nations Security Council vote on a bid to boost Aid to Gaza is now scheduled for Friday. Keep watching to know more.

Israel-Hamas war: Will UNSC vote on Gaza Aid resolution today?

The European leaders have pledged to find a way to provide Aid to Ukraine after Hungary vetoed a $55 billion financial aid. On Friday 26 national leaders of the European Union in fact took a historic step of agreeing to start the accession negotiations of Ukraine.

European leaders pledge to find a way for Ukraine aid

India to provide immediate relief assistance of over $1 million to Papua New Guinea in the wake of a volcanic eruption. The Ministry of External Affairs has said India extended deep sympathy to the government and the people of Papua New Guinea.

India to provide relief assistance of $1mn to Papua New Guinea in wake of volcanic eruption

As the humanitarian crisis in Sudan is intensifying, more than 6 million people have already fled the country since April. As per a senior UN official over 25 million people which is more than half of the population need humanitarian help.

UN: More than 25 million people need humanitarian help in Sudan

Nepal is picking up the pieces 2 days after a 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck the country's West leaving at least 157 people dead and causing massive damage to infrastructure and houses. Now there's another problem winter is approaching there are reports of hundreds of families left without a roof over their heads.

Nepal Earthquake: India sends medicines, and other humanitarian aid to Nepal

The Biden admiration is walking a tightrope on the issue of humanitarian pauses in Gaza after vetoing a United Nations resolution that would have paved the way for more Aid into Gaza. The White House has shifted its position to call for more aid in Gaza. The White House says 66 trucks of humanitarian assistance entered Gaza in the last 24 hours dozens of more trucks are expected to be cleared for deliveries.

US President calls for more humanitarian aid to Gaza

<p>Tesla chief and owner of X, Elon Musk on Saturday (Oct 28) said that Starlink will provide connectivity to internationally recognised aid organisations&nbsp;in Gaza.&nbsp;Musk said this while responding to US leader Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, also called AOC, who asked on X how anyone can defend "such an act" after Israel snapped the internet and communications in the Gaza Strip last night.<br />
<br />
"Cutting off all communication to a population of 2.2 million is unacceptable. Journalists, medical professionals, humanitarian efforts, and innocents are all endangered," said AOC, in a post on X.<br />
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"I do not know how such an act can be defended. The United States has historically denounced this practice,” she added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Cutting off all communication to a population of 2.2 million is unacceptable. Journalists, medical professionals, humanitarian efforts, and innocents are all endangered.<br />
<br />
I do not know how such an act can be defended. The United States has historically denounced this practice. <a href="https://t.co/L9iV7TSs2u">https://t.co/L9iV7TSs2u</a></p>
— Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@AOC) <a href="https://twitter.com/AOC/status/1718053947498217715?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Responding to the leader's post on X, Musk said, "Starlink will support connectivity to internationally recognised aid organisations in Gaza."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Starlink will support connectivity to internationally recognized aid organizations in Gaza.<br />
<br />
[ComStar]</p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1718224153474388433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Reacting to Musk's claims,&nbsp;Israel's communication minister Shlomo Karhi that the country&nbsp;would “use all means at its disposal to fight this”.</p>

<p><br />
"HAMAS will use it for terrorist activities. Perhaps Musk would be willing to condition it with the release of our abducted babies, sons, daughters, elderly people. All of them! By then, my office will cut any ties with Starlink,"&nbsp;Karhi said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Israel will use all means at its disposal to fight this.<br />
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HAMAS will use it for terrorist activities. There is no doubt about it, we know it, and musk knows it. HAMAS is ISIS.<br />
<br />
Perhaps Musk would be willing to condition it with the release of our abducted babies, sons, daughters,… <a href="https://t.co/pRNOlnINbZ">https://t.co/pRNOlnINbZ</a></p>
— 🇮🇱שלמה קרעי - Shlomo Karhi (@shlomo_karhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/shlomo_karhi/status/1718309963666211328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Starlink aims at providing low-cost internet in remote areas</strong></h2>

<p>Starlink is a satellite network which has been established by the space flight company SpaceX owned by Musk and it provides low-cost internet to people in remote locations.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/musks-social-media-platform-x-to-roll-out-audio-video-calling-in-a-step-towards-everything-app-651325">Musk’s social media platform X to roll out audio, video calling in a step towards ‘everything app’</a></p>

<p>The lifespan of a Starlink satellite is approximately five years and eventually, SpaceX plans to have as many as 42,000 satellites in this so-called megaconstellation.<br />
<br />
The phone network and internet access were completely snapped across Gaza on Friday (Oct 27), as Israel continued to intensely bombard the Palestinian territory. Israel has been accused by Hamas of taking measures "to perpetrate massacres with bloody retaliatory strikes from the air, land and sea."<br />
<br />
The Palestinian Red Crescent Society stated that the "disruption affects the central emergency number 101 and hinders the arrival of ambulance vehicles to the wounded" in the ongoing strikes.<br />
<br />
The organisation added that it was "deeply concerned" about the ability of medics to continue providing care to the injured along with the safety of the staff.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US Judge says Billionaire Elon Musk to face shareholder lawsuit</strong></p>

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<p>"We have completely lost contact with the operations room in the Gaza Strip and all our teams operating there," it stated on X. Palestinian telecoms provider Jawwal had earlier confirmed the communications shutdown.<br />
<br />
"The heavy bombardment in the last hour destroyed all remaining international routes connecting Gaza to the outside world," wrote Jawwal on its Facebook page.<br />
<br />
Global internet monitor NetBlocks had stated "a collapse in connectivity in the Gaza Strip with high impact to Paltel," the owner of Jawwal. "The company is the last remaining major operator to supply service as connectivity declines amid ongoing fighting with Israel," wrote NetBlocks on X.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Tesla chief and owner of X, Elon Musk on Saturday (Oct 28) said that Starlink will provide connectivity to internationally recognised aid organisations in Gaza. Musk said this while responding to US leader Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, also called AOC, who asked on X how anyone can defend "such an act" after Israel snapped the internet and communications in the Gaza Strip last night.

Tesla chief and owner of X, Elon Musk on Saturday (Oct 28) said that Starlink will provide connectivity to internationally recognised aid organisations in Gaza. Musk said this while responding to US leader Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, also called AOC, who asked on X how anyone can defend "such an act" after Israel snapped the internet and communications in the Gaza Strip last night. "Cutting off all communication to a population of 2.2 million is unacceptable. Journalists, medical professionals, humanitarian efforts, and innocents are all endangered," said AOC, in a post on X. "I do not know how such an act can be defended. The United States has historically denounced this practice,” she added. Cutting off all communication to a population of 2.2 million is unacceptable. Journalists, medical professionals, humanitarian efforts, and innocents are all endangered. I do not know how such an act can be defended. The United States has historically denounced this practice. https://t.co/L9iV7TSs2u — Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@AOC) October 27, 2023 × Responding to the leader's post on X, Musk said, "Starlink will support connectivity to internationally recognised aid organisations in Gaza." Starlink will support connectivity to internationally recognized aid organizations in Gaza. [ComStar] — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 28, 2023 × Reacting to Musk's claims, Israel's communication minister Shlomo Karhi that the country would “use all means at its disposal to fight this”. "HAMAS will use it for terrorist activities. Perhaps Musk would be willing to condition it with the release of our abducted babies, sons, daughters, elderly people. All of them! By then, my office will cut any ties with Starlink," Karhi said. Israel will use all means at its disposal to fight this. HAMAS will use it for terrorist activities. There is no doubt about it, we know it, and musk knows it. HAMAS is ISIS. Perhaps Musk would be willing to condition it with the release of our abducted babies, sons, daughters,… https://t.co/pRNOlnINbZ — 🇮🇱שלמה קרעי - Shlomo Karhi (@shlomo_karhi) October 28, 2023 × Starlink aims at providing low-cost internet in remote areas Starlink is a satellite network which has been established by the space flight company SpaceX owned by Musk and it provides low-cost internet to people in remote locations. ALSO READ | Musk’s social media platform X to roll out audio, video calling in a step towards ‘everything app’ The lifespan of a Starlink satellite is approximately five years and eventually, SpaceX plans to have as many as 42,000 satellites in this so-called megaconstellation. The phone network and internet access were completely snapped across Gaza on Friday (Oct 27), as Israel continued to intensely bombard the Palestinian territory. Israel has been accused by Hamas of taking measures "to perpetrate massacres with bloody retaliatory strikes from the air, land and sea." The Palestinian Red Crescent Society stated that the "disruption affects the central emergency number 101 and hinders the arrival of ambulance vehicles to the wounded" in the ongoing strikes. The organisation added that it was "deeply concerned" about the ability of medics to continue providing care to the injured along with the safety of the staff. WATCH | US Judge says Billionaire Elon Musk to face shareholder lawsuit "We have completely lost contact with the operations room in the Gaza Strip and all our teams operating there," it stated on X. Palestinian telecoms provider Jawwal had earlier confirmed the communications shutdown. "The heavy bombardment in the last hour destroyed all remaining international routes connecting Gaza to the outside world," wrote Jawwal on its Facebook page. Global internet monitor NetBlocks had stated "a collapse in connectivity in the Gaza Strip with high impact to Paltel," the owner of Jawwal. "The company is the last remaining major operator to supply service as connectivity declines amid ongoing fighting with Israel," wrote NetBlocks on X. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Starlink to provide internet to aid groups in Gaza, says Musk in response to US leader

<p>UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced Monday that Britain was sending an additional £20 million ($24 million) of aid to help civilians in Gaza affected by the war between Israel and Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The announcement brings the amount pledged to Palestinian territories by Britain since Hamas's attack on Israel earlier this month to £30 million, after £10 million was made available last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hamas militants stormed into Israel from the Gaza Strip on October 7, and killed at least 1,400 people, mostly civilians who were shot, mutilated or burnt to death on the first day of the raid, according to Israeli officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Israel-Hamas&nbsp;war: Israeli strikes wreak havoc in Gaza</strong></p>

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<p>More than 5,000 Palestinians, mainly civilians, have been killed across the Gaza Strip in relentless Israeli bombardments in retaliation for the attacks by the Palestinian Islamist militant group, according to the latest toll from the Hamas health ministry in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are providing an additional £20 million of humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza, more than doubling our previous support to the Palestinian people," Sunak told parliament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before the recent pledges, the UK had committed £27 million to Palestinians this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sunak's announcement came while updating lawmakers on the situation in the Middle East following his visit to the region last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said the arrival through the Rafah crossing of some aid trucks into Gaza was "important progress" but added "it is not enough."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We need a constant stream of aid pouring in, bringing the water, food, medicine and fuel that is so desperately needed," the prime minister added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-rishi-sunaks-old-mobile-number-voicemail-recording-leaked-online-650378">UK: PM Rishi Sunak's old mobile number, voicemail recording leaked online</a></strong></p>

<p>Sunak also told MPs that Britain had determined that the explosion at the Al-Ahli hospital in Gaza that killed hundreds of people last Tuesday was probably caused by a missile fired from within Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hamas and Israel have blamed each other for the blast at the health facility.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have taken care to look at all the evidence currently available," Sunak said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"On the basis of the deep knowledge and analysis of our intelligence and weapons experts, the British government judges that the explosion was likely caused by a missile, or part of one, that was launched from within Gaza towards Israel," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-strikes-two-hezbollah-cells-video-shows-aerial-footage-of-blasts-in-border-areas-of-israel-and-lebanon-650235">Israel strikes two Hezbollah cells: Video shows aerial footage of blasts in border areas of Israel and Lebanon</a></strong></p>

<p>France's DRM military intelligence agency said on Friday that there was no evidence that an Israeli strike had caused the explosion.&nbsp;</p>

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UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced Monday that Britain was sending an additional £20 million ($24 million) of aid to help civilians in Gaza affected by the war between Israel and Hamas.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced Monday that Britain was sending an additional £20 million ($24 million) of aid to help civilians in Gaza affected by the war between Israel and Hamas. The announcement brings the amount pledged to Palestinian territories by Britain since Hamas's attack on Israel earlier this month to £30 million, after £10 million was made available last week. Hamas militants stormed into Israel from the Gaza Strip on October 7, and killed at least 1,400 people, mostly civilians who were shot, mutilated or burnt to death on the first day of the raid, according to Israeli officials. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Israeli strikes wreak havoc in Gaza × More than 5,000 Palestinians, mainly civilians, have been killed across the Gaza Strip in relentless Israeli bombardments in retaliation for the attacks by the Palestinian Islamist militant group, according to the latest toll from the Hamas health ministry in Gaza. "We are providing an additional £20 million of humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza, more than doubling our previous support to the Palestinian people," Sunak told parliament. Before the recent pledges, the UK had committed £27 million to Palestinians this year. Sunak's announcement came while updating lawmakers on the situation in the Middle East following his visit to the region last week. He said the arrival through the Rafah crossing of some aid trucks into Gaza was "important progress" but added "it is not enough." "We need a constant stream of aid pouring in, bringing the water, food, medicine and fuel that is so desperately needed," the prime minister added. Also Read | UK: PM Rishi Sunak's old mobile number, voicemail recording leaked online Sunak also told MPs that Britain had determined that the explosion at the Al-Ahli hospital in Gaza that killed hundreds of people last Tuesday was probably caused by a missile fired from within Gaza. Hamas and Israel have blamed each other for the blast at the health facility. "We have taken care to look at all the evidence currently available," Sunak said. "On the basis of the deep knowledge and analysis of our intelligence and weapons experts, the British government judges that the explosion was likely caused by a missile, or part of one, that was launched from within Gaza towards Israel," he added. Also Read | Israel strikes two Hezbollah cells: Video shows aerial footage of blasts in border areas of Israel and Lebanon France's DRM military intelligence agency said on Friday that there was no evidence that an Israeli strike had caused the explosion. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UK PM Rishi Sunak announces extra £20 million aid for civilians in Gaza

Republican lawmakers in the United States are divided over whether to provide military aid to Ukraine or focus on arming Taiwan. With no speaker in the House of Representatives, additional US Aid to Ukraine is hanging in the balance.

Republicans want less aid for Ukraine and more for Taiwan

<p>King Mohammed VI of Morocco has remained silent on aid offers made by France following a devastating 6.8 magnitude earthquake, the most powerful to hit the country in a century. This comes amidst escalating tensions between the two nations, fueled by their shared colonial history. Morocco is pressing France to recognise the disputed Western Sahara region as Moroccan territory.</p>

<p>French aid groups and the French government have extended offers of assistance to support earthquake victims. However, Moroccan authorities have not granted permission for French aid workers to enter the country. The death toll stands at around 2,500.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/morocco-ambassador-maliki-welcomes-indias-offer-of-assistance-after-deadly-earthquake-635132">Morocco Ambassador Maliki welcomes India's offer of assistance after deadly earthquake</a></p>

<p>Arnaud Fraisse, founder of the French aid group First Responders Without Borders, expressed frustration, reportedly stating, "Unfortunately, we still don't have the go-ahead from the Moroccan government," and he remains uncertain about the reasons for the delay. Later, Fraisse withdrew the aid offer, citing the elapsed "golden period" for finding survivors.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-nipah-virus-alert-in-keralas-kozhikode-after-two-unnatural-deaths-reported-in-district-635097">India: Nipah virus alert in Kerala's Kozhikode after two 'unnatural deaths' reported in district</a></p>

<p>As French aid workers faced hurdles, a British team comprising 60 rescue specialists and four search dogs arrived in Morocco, transported by two Royal Air Force A400M aircraft provided by the Ministry of Defence.</p>

<h2><strong>Macron visit delayed&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p><span style="font-size: 15px;">In addition to colonial tensions, current relations between President Emmanuel Macron and King Mohammed VI have reached a low point. A planned visit by Macron to Morocco has faced repeated delays, and the post of Moroccan ambassador to France remains vacant.</span>&nbsp;Moreover, Macron's efforts to improve relations with neighboring Algeria, a regional rival of Morocco, have reportedly irked the Moroccan monarch.</p>

<h2><strong>French foreign minister responds</strong></h2>

<p>French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna stated that it is Morocco's decision if they are to decide to respond to aid pledges. She called the controversy "misplaced" and reiterated France's readiness to assist Morocco.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Can India amplify the voice of the global south?</strong></p>

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<p>"This is a misplaced controversy," Colonna reportedly told BFM television. "We are ready to help Morocco. It's a sovereign Moroccan decision and it's up to them to decide," she added.</p>

<h2><strong>International aid efforts</strong></h2>

<p>Apart from France, Germany has also pledged support to Morocco without receiving a response, with German officials emphasising the absence of political motives behind this. Spain has sent 86 rescuers to Morocco after their assistance offer was accepted, while Gulf states Qatar and the United Arab Emirates are dispatching specialists.</p>

<p>Moroccan officials have explained their cautious approach to aid requests saying "a lack of coordination could be counterproductive.”&nbsp;French media reported that King Mohammed VI was in France when the earthquake occurred but promptly returned to Morocco later.</p>

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King Mohammed VI of Morocco has remained silent on aid offers made by France following a devastating 6.8 magnitude earthquake, the most powerful to hit the country in a century.

King Mohammed VI of Morocco has remained silent on aid offers made by France following a devastating 6.8 magnitude earthquake, the most powerful to hit the country in a century. This comes amidst escalating tensions between the two nations, fueled by their shared colonial history. Morocco is pressing France to recognise the disputed Western Sahara region as Moroccan territory. French aid groups and the French government have extended offers of assistance to support earthquake victims. However, Moroccan authorities have not granted permission for French aid workers to enter the country. The death toll stands at around 2,500. Also Read | Morocco Ambassador Maliki welcomes India's offer of assistance after deadly earthquake Arnaud Fraisse, founder of the French aid group First Responders Without Borders, expressed frustration, reportedly stating, "Unfortunately, we still don't have the go-ahead from the Moroccan government," and he remains uncertain about the reasons for the delay. Later, Fraisse withdrew the aid offer, citing the elapsed "golden period" for finding survivors. Also Read | India: Nipah virus alert in Kerala's Kozhikode after two 'unnatural deaths' reported in district As French aid workers faced hurdles, a British team comprising 60 rescue specialists and four search dogs arrived in Morocco, transported by two Royal Air Force A400M aircraft provided by the Ministry of Defence. Macron visit delayed In addition to colonial tensions, current relations between President Emmanuel Macron and King Mohammed VI have reached a low point. A planned visit by Macron to Morocco has faced repeated delays, and the post of Moroccan ambassador to France remains vacant. Moreover, Macron's efforts to improve relations with neighboring Algeria, a regional rival of Morocco, have reportedly irked the Moroccan monarch. French foreign minister responds French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna stated that it is Morocco's decision if they are to decide to respond to aid pledges. She called the controversy "misplaced" and reiterated France's readiness to assist Morocco. Watch | Can India amplify the voice of the global south? × "This is a misplaced controversy," Colonna reportedly told BFM television. "We are ready to help Morocco. It's a sovereign Moroccan decision and it's up to them to decide," she added. International aid efforts Apart from France, Germany has also pledged support to Morocco without receiving a response, with German officials emphasising the absence of political motives behind this. Spain has sent 86 rescuers to Morocco after their assistance offer was accepted, while Gulf states Qatar and the United Arab Emirates are dispatching specialists. Moroccan officials have explained their cautious approach to aid requests saying "a lack of coordination could be counterproductive.” French media reported that King Mohammed VI was in France when the earthquake occurred but promptly returned to Morocco later. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

No nod to French quake aid offers by Moroccan King amid diplomatic tensions

As he praised the months-long counteroffensive against the Russian soldiers in the country's southeast, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced fresh aid for Ukraine totaling more than $1 billion during a visit to Kyiv. This aid includes around $665 million in new military and civilian security assistance.

Russia-Ukraine War: US grants $1 BN military, humanitarian aid to Ukraine

<p>The United Nations officials said on Friday (July 28) that the agency is still delivering aid in Niger. However, UN officials in the country have said that they have not had any contact with the military following the coup.</p>

<p>Niger's military officers declared General Abdourahamane Tiani as the new head of state of the west African country on Friday. They said they had suspended the constitution and dissolved all former institutions after overthrowing President Mohamed Bazoum.</p>

<p>"We are not in contact with the military," Nicole Kouassi, the current top U.N. official in Niger, told reporters.</p>

<p>"Concerning the president, information we have from our political office is he seemed to be at his home and he seemed to be fine," she said. "The situation in the country is quite calm."</p>

<p>The United Nations has called for Bazoum to be released.</p>

<p>The United Nations has 1,600 staff in Niger - of which about 352 are international - and Kouassi said all were safe.</p>

<p>The United Nations says some 4.3 million people are in need of humanitarian help in Niger. In the country, more than 370,000 people are displaced internally. The country also hosts more than 250,000 refugees. These refugees are mainly from Nigeria, Mali and Burkina Faso.</p>

<p>The United Nations has made an appeal for USD 584 million in aid. But it is only 32 per cent funded.</p>

<p>"The humanitarian response continues on the ground and has never stopped, actually, since the events occurred in Niger," the U.N. World Food Programme official in Niger, Jean-Noel Gentile, told reporters.</p>

<p>Wagner Group mercenary boss Yevgeny Prigozhin, who remains active despite leading a failed mutiny against the Russian army's top brass last month, hailed Niger's military coup as good news and offered his fighters' services to bring order.</p>

<p>"As of now, no sign of Wagner from the UN perspective," said Kouassi.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The United Nations officials said on Friday (July 28) that the agency is still delivering aid in Niger. However, UN officials in the country have said that they have not had any contact with the military following the coup.

The United Nations officials said on Friday (July 28) that the agency is still delivering aid in Niger. However, UN officials in the country have said that they have not had any contact with the military following the coup. Niger's military officers declared General Abdourahamane Tiani as the new head of state of the west African country on Friday. They said they had suspended the constitution and dissolved all former institutions after overthrowing President Mohamed Bazoum. "We are not in contact with the military," Nicole Kouassi, the current top U.N. official in Niger, told reporters. "Concerning the president, information we have from our political office is he seemed to be at his home and he seemed to be fine," she said. "The situation in the country is quite calm." The United Nations has called for Bazoum to be released. The United Nations has 1,600 staff in Niger - of which about 352 are international - and Kouassi said all were safe. The United Nations says some 4.3 million people are in need of humanitarian help in Niger. In the country, more than 370,000 people are displaced internally. The country also hosts more than 250,000 refugees. These refugees are mainly from Nigeria, Mali and Burkina Faso. The United Nations has made an appeal for USD 584 million in aid. But it is only 32 per cent funded. "The humanitarian response continues on the ground and has never stopped, actually, since the events occurred in Niger," the U.N. World Food Programme official in Niger, Jean-Noel Gentile, told reporters. Wagner Group mercenary boss Yevgeny Prigozhin, who remains active despite leading a failed mutiny against the Russian army's top brass last month, hailed Niger's military coup as good news and offered his fighters' services to bring order. "As of now, no sign of Wagner from the UN perspective," said Kouassi. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UN says still delivering aid in Niger after coup but no contact with military

<p>The first flight of the Red Cross&nbsp;carrying humanitarian aid landed in Sudan on Sunday, where deadly clashes between forces of rival generals continued for the third week.</p>

<p>"The eight tonnes of humanitarian cargo includes surgical material to support Sudanese hospitals and volunteers from the Sudan Red Crescent Society," said the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).</p>

<p>On April 15, the fighting started between forces which are loyal to two rival generals, leaving around 500 dead and thousands wounded while displacing tens of thousands from their homes.</p>

<p>Since the conflict started, dead bodies have remained on the capital's streets and the ICRC's Africa regional director Patrick Youssef, while speaking to journalists from the Sudanese Red Crescent, said that they are "trying to get to the bodies in the streets".</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-violence-enters-third-week-un-says-country-falling-apart-as-casualties-top-500-587527">Sudan violence enters third week: UN says country falling apart as casualties top 500</a></p>

<p>Around 16 per cent of hospitals are completely functioning in the capital city of Khartoum, as per the report of the World Health Organisation, after many facilities were shelled in the ongoing fighting.</p>

<p>The shipment left Amman, the capital of Jordan, and arrived in the eastern city of Port Sudan which was called by Youssef as the only entry point currently available for aid to reach Sudan.</p>

<p>He stated that the medical kits present on the plane were "enough to stabilise 1,500 patients", adding that the ICRC was aiming for security guarantees to further send aid to Darfur and Khartoum.</p>

<p>The regional director stated that some aid was delivered by them to Darfur at the beginning, but "it was not enough, and we could not get anything to Khartoum".</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Sudan's former prime minister Abdalla Hamdok on Saturday warned that the conflict could turn into one of the worst civil wars in the world.</p>

<p>"God forbid if Sudan is to reach a point of civil war proper...Syria, Yemen, Libya will be a small play," said Hamdok speaking at an event in Nairobi. "I think it would be a nightmare for the world,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Sudan violence enters third week, UN says country "Falling apart"</strong></p>

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<p>UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has also appealed for negotiations to end the civil strife.</p>

<p>"There is no right to go on fighting for power when the country is falling apart," he said while speaking at Saudi-owned Al Arabiya television on Saturday.</p>

<p>"My appeal is for everything to be done to support an African-led initiative for peace in Sudan,” he added. Around 75,000 people have been displaced from their homes due to the fighting, said the UN.</p>

<p>Around 20,000 have fled to Chad, 4,000 to South Sudan, 3,500 to Ethiopia and 3,000 to the Central African Republic, it stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The first flight of the Red Cross carrying humanitarian aid landed in Sudan on Sunday, where deadly clashes between forces of rival generals continued for the third week.

The first flight of the Red Cross carrying humanitarian aid landed in Sudan on Sunday, where deadly clashes between forces of rival generals continued for the third week. "The eight tonnes of humanitarian cargo includes surgical material to support Sudanese hospitals and volunteers from the Sudan Red Crescent Society," said the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). On April 15, the fighting started between forces which are loyal to two rival generals, leaving around 500 dead and thousands wounded while displacing tens of thousands from their homes. Since the conflict started, dead bodies have remained on the capital's streets and the ICRC's Africa regional director Patrick Youssef, while speaking to journalists from the Sudanese Red Crescent, said that they are "trying to get to the bodies in the streets". ALSO READ | Sudan violence enters third week: UN says country falling apart as casualties top 500 Around 16 per cent of hospitals are completely functioning in the capital city of Khartoum, as per the report of the World Health Organisation, after many facilities were shelled in the ongoing fighting. The shipment left Amman, the capital of Jordan, and arrived in the eastern city of Port Sudan which was called by Youssef as the only entry point currently available for aid to reach Sudan. He stated that the medical kits present on the plane were "enough to stabilise 1,500 patients", adding that the ICRC was aiming for security guarantees to further send aid to Darfur and Khartoum. The regional director stated that some aid was delivered by them to Darfur at the beginning, but "it was not enough, and we could not get anything to Khartoum". Meanwhile, Sudan's former prime minister Abdalla Hamdok on Saturday warned that the conflict could turn into one of the worst civil wars in the world. "God forbid if Sudan is to reach a point of civil war proper...Syria, Yemen, Libya will be a small play," said Hamdok speaking at an event in Nairobi. "I think it would be a nightmare for the world,” he added. WATCH | Sudan violence enters third week, UN says country "Falling apart" UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has also appealed for negotiations to end the civil strife. "There is no right to go on fighting for power when the country is falling apart," he said while speaking at Saudi-owned Al Arabiya television on Saturday. "My appeal is for everything to be done to support an African-led initiative for peace in Sudan,” he added. Around 75,000 people have been displaced from their homes due to the fighting, said the UN. Around 20,000 have fled to Chad, 4,000 to South Sudan, 3,500 to Ethiopia and 3,000 to the Central African Republic, it stated. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Red Cross aid's first flight reaches Sudan as fighting intensifies

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has caused the greatest humanitarian crisis. Thousands of lives have been lost and millions of livelihoods have been disrupted. The prospects of an end to this prolonged war are uncertain. The nations stepped up to provide financial and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. One year in, amid the ongoing destruction, the aid required to battle Russia continues to rise. To help Ukraine in its tough time, Britain is ready to provide an extra $500 million in loan guarantees.

Why has UK confirmed further $500 million in loan guarantees for Ukraine?

Japan is offering a hand of help to its friendly allies. For the first time in history, Japan is breaking its aid rules. Japan plans to offer friendly nations financial assistance to help them bolster their defences. The move marks Tokyo's first departure from rules that forbid using international aid for military purposes.

What is Japan's new aid scheme that allows for overseas defence funding?

Ukraine has received billions of dollars in aid over the last year. Is this aid landing in corrupt pockets? Russian and Swedish media say it could be smuggled to Swedish gangs. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: How much money has the world given to Ukraine?

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen stepped up calls for increased economic support to Ukraine to help it battle the year-old Russian invasion.

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen calls for increased economic aid to Ukraine

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Turkey to show support to the earthquake-hit country. Blinken announced further aid to Turkey and said Washington would provide longer term help to Ankara as it seeks to rebuild following this month's earthquake.

Top U.S. Diplomat announces fresh set of aid to Turkiye

<p>On Sunday, World Health Organisation chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad is open for more border crossings so that aid can be reached to the quake victims in the rebel-held northwest Syria.</p>

<p>Ghebreyesus held talks with the Syrian president in Damascus as the two discussed the response to the Turkey-Syria earthquake.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The compounding crises of conflict, Covid, cholera, economic decline and now the earthquake have taken an unbearable toll," said Tedros after he visited Aleppo and saw the devastation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-acknowledges-relief-failure-in-syria-as-earthquake-toll-reaches-33000-561279">UN acknowledges relief failure in Syria as earthquake toll reaches 33,000</a></p>

<p>He said he was "waiting to move across lines to the northwest, where we've been told the impact is even worse".</p>

<p>The situation has worsened in the rebel-held areas where aid convoys cannot reach the country's government-held without the authorisation of Damascus.</p>

<p>The single border crossing which was open for the transfer of aid was also disrupted by the earthquake.</p>

<p>"This afternoon I met with &nbsp;President Assad, who indicated he was open to considering additional cross-border access points for this emergency," said Tedros. during a virtual press conference from the Syrian capital.</p>

<p>Tedros appreciated the "recent blanket approval by the government of Syria for the UN for cross-line conveys" to transfer aid into the rebel-held areas.</p>

<p>However, he added that although cross-line aid convoys have been given the all-clear by Damascus to enter government-held areas, WHO is still waiting for the green light. "We're on standby," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Syria allows aid delivery to rebel-hit areas</strong></p>

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<p>WHO's director for the Eastern Mediterranean region Richard Brennan said that there had been "no cross-line deliveries since the earthquake struck".</p>

<p>"We did have one scheduled in the next couple of days. We are still negotiating for that to go ahead," he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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On Sunday, World Health Organisation chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad is open for more border crossings so that aid can be reached to the quake victims in the rebel-held northwest Syria.

On Sunday, World Health Organisation chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad is open for more border crossings so that aid can be reached to the quake victims in the rebel-held northwest Syria. Ghebreyesus held talks with the Syrian president in Damascus as the two discussed the response to the Turkey-Syria earthquake. "The compounding crises of conflict, Covid, cholera, economic decline and now the earthquake have taken an unbearable toll," said Tedros after he visited Aleppo and saw the devastation. ALSO READ | UN acknowledges relief failure in Syria as earthquake toll reaches 33,000 He said he was "waiting to move across lines to the northwest, where we've been told the impact is even worse". The situation has worsened in the rebel-held areas where aid convoys cannot reach the country's government-held without the authorisation of Damascus. The single border crossing which was open for the transfer of aid was also disrupted by the earthquake. "This afternoon I met with President Assad, who indicated he was open to considering additional cross-border access points for this emergency," said Tedros. during a virtual press conference from the Syrian capital. Tedros appreciated the "recent blanket approval by the government of Syria for the UN for cross-line conveys" to transfer aid into the rebel-held areas. However, he added that although cross-line aid convoys have been given the all-clear by Damascus to enter government-held areas, WHO is still waiting for the green light. "We're on standby," he said. WATCH | Syria allows aid delivery to rebel-hit areas WHO's director for the Eastern Mediterranean region Richard Brennan said that there had been "no cross-line deliveries since the earthquake struck". "We did have one scheduled in the next couple of days. We are still negotiating for that to go ahead," he added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Syrian President Assad may allow more border crossings for transfer of aid, says WHO

Hours after the announcement made by the Prime Minister's Office, India has dispatched the first batch of earthquake relief material to Turkiye aboard an Indian Air Force aircraft. The shipment consisted of an expert National Disaster Response Force search and rescue team, including both male and female personnel, highly-skilled dog squads, an array of medical supplies, advanced drilling drilling equipment, and other crucial tools required for the aid efforts.

India dispatches first consignment of earthquake relief material to Turkiye

Many countries have mobilised rapidly to send aid and rescue workers to Turkiye. EU has mobilised 27 search-and-rescue and medical teams. The U.S. is sending two search-and-rescue teams of 79 people each. Vladimir Putin promised to send Russian teams in a telephone call with Recep Tayyip Erdogan. India readied national disaster response force teams comprising personnel with dog squads and equipment. Indian doctors and paramedics with medicines are assisting the work. Germany - home to about three million people of Turkish origin - has promised to mobilise all possible assistance. China is sending $5.9 million in emergency aid to turkey, including rescue and medical teams. The PM of Greece pledged to make 'every force available' to aid Turkiye. Qatar is sending 120 rescue workers to Turkiye, alongside a field hospital, relief aid, tents and winter supplies. The UAE also intends to set up a field hospital in Turkiye. Tokyo is dispatching the Japan disaster relief rescue team to Turkiye.

A look at the int'l aid promised to Turkiye

The United States has announced a new military aid package for Ukraine. The package worth $2.2 billion includes a new rocket-propelled precision bomb. The new weapon, the ground launched small diameter bomb or GLS-DB will increase Kyiv's strike range.

$2 Billion U.S. aid package to Ukraine

Aid workers and volunteers unload a humanitarian train carrying around 500 tonnes of food, clothes, and hygiene products, which arrived from Turkey via Iran. More than half of the country's 38 million people are facing hunger this winter, and nearly four million children are suffering from malnutrition, according to aid agencies.

Watch: Turkish train carrying humanitarian aid arrives in Afghanistan

<p>The UN's top female official, Amina Mohammad, was sent by United Nations Secretary-General with a team that included Sima Bahous, the director of UN Women, in response to the ban on female aid workers in Afghanistan. Amina Mohammad is the UN secretary general's deputy and therefore is deemed to be a very high-profile visit.&nbsp;The delegation arrived in Kabul on Monday. Amina Mohammed on Tuesday met Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi, Afghanistan’s acting foreign minister. “FM Muttaqi expressed hope that the delegation would portray Afghanistan’s true picture to the international community,” ministry spokesman Abdul Qahar Balkhi said in a tweet.“FM Muttaqi added that women are engaged in educational &amp; health sectors in significant numbers whereas those who used to work in government offices are paid salaries at home,” he continued.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Deputy UNSG Amina Mohammed heading a delegation called on IEA Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi.<br />
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Welcoming the UN delegation, FM Muttaqi expressed hope that the delegation would portray Afghanistan’s true picture to the international community. <a href="https://t.co/94zVZmWtWK">pic.twitter.com/94zVZmWtWK</a></p>
— Abdul Qahar Balkhi (@QaharBalkhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/QaharBalkhi/status/1615704278433435648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Over the&nbsp;issue of barring NGO women workers, Ramiz Alakbarov, the UN's humanitarian co-ordinator in Afghanistan in a statement said, "People are freezing and time is running out." "We need to build shelters now but, in this conservative society, if we don't have female aid workers to speak to women in the families, we can't do this work," she added.</p>

<p>Taliban issued a decree on 24 December 2022, prohibiting women from working for domestic and international nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). This gave the rights of Afghan women a fatal blow. Not just this, it also poses a risk of further escalating a public health emergency in a nation already struggling with famine and natural calamities. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier visits have been condemned widely as many of such delegations were men-only. The delegation is visiting Afghanistan to hold talks with Taliban in efforts to reconcile the Taliban government's demands with international norms on human rights. With women's rights being breached time and again, it is only necessary to have women on board during such visits.&nbsp;</p>

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The UN's top female official, Amina Mohammad, was sent by United Nations Secretary-General with a team that included Sima Bahous, the director of UN Women, in response to the ban on female aid workers in Afghanistan.

The UN's top female official, Amina Mohammad, was sent by United Nations Secretary-General with a team that included Sima Bahous, the director of UN Women, in response to the ban on female aid workers in Afghanistan. Amina Mohammad is the UN secretary general's deputy and therefore is deemed to be a very high-profile visit. The delegation arrived in Kabul on Monday. Amina Mohammed on Tuesday met Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi, Afghanistan’s acting foreign minister. “FM Muttaqi expressed hope that the delegation would portray Afghanistan’s true picture to the international community,” ministry spokesman Abdul Qahar Balkhi said in a tweet.“FM Muttaqi added that women are engaged in educational & health sectors in significant numbers whereas those who used to work in government offices are paid salaries at home,” he continued. Deputy UNSG Amina Mohammed heading a delegation called on IEA Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi. Welcoming the UN delegation, FM Muttaqi expressed hope that the delegation would portray Afghanistan’s true picture to the international community. pic.twitter.com/94zVZmWtWK — Abdul Qahar Balkhi (@QaharBalkhi) January 18, 2023 × Over the issue of barring NGO women workers, Ramiz Alakbarov, the UN's humanitarian co-ordinator in Afghanistan in a statement said, "People are freezing and time is running out." "We need to build shelters now but, in this conservative society, if we don't have female aid workers to speak to women in the families, we can't do this work," she added. Taliban issued a decree on 24 December 2022, prohibiting women from working for domestic and international nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). This gave the rights of Afghan women a fatal blow. Not just this, it also poses a risk of further escalating a public health emergency in a nation already struggling with famine and natural calamities. Earlier visits have been condemned widely as many of such delegations were men-only. The delegation is visiting Afghanistan to hold talks with Taliban in efforts to reconcile the Taliban government's demands with international norms on human rights. With women's rights being breached time and again, it is only necessary to have women on board during such visits. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UN's top women officials meet Taliban over ban on female aid workers

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has arrived in the United Arab Emirates. With this visit, he is seeking to bolden economic relations with the Emirates nation. Watch to know more.

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif arrives in UAE on two-day visit

<p>Ishaq Dar, Pakistan's finance minister, stated on Wednesday that about 90% of the international community's promises for the flood-affected nation were project loans that will be disbursed over the following three years.&nbsp;His comments come two days after the international world promised around $10 billion at a donors' summit in Geneva to assist the cash-strapped nation in rebuilding after last year's devastating floods in a climate-resilient way.</p>

<p>The summit, which lasted the entire day and was co-hosted by Pakistan and the UN in Geneva on Monday, brought together representatives from almost 40 nations as well as private donors and international financial organisations.</p>

<p>Dar had to clarify that USD 8.7 billion of the commitments were loans since there was uncertainty regarding the type of financial assistance&nbsp;even though he remained mum on the conditions of these loans.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pak-pm-imran-khan-condemns-sharif-led-govt-for-its-irresponsible-statments-on-taliban-551445">Former Pak PM Imran Khan condemns Sharif-led govt for its 'irresponsible statements' on Taliban</a></p>

<p>The cash-strapped nation "expects the terms to be lenient," Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said in a press conference, adding that the pledged sum will be distributed over the following three years.</p>

<p>The Asian Development Bank, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, and the World Bank all made pledges, according to the finance minister, bringing total project loan financing to over USD 8 billion.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan’s former Poverty Alleviation Minister Dr. Sania Nishtar speaks to WION’s Anas Mallick</strong></p>

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<p>"I am not incorporating the pledge made by the Saudi Development Bank on purpose here because it is not clear whether their announcement of USD 1 billion pertains to programme lending or project loan," Dar said.</p>

<p>The prime minister had earlier vowed that funds donated by the international community will be used for the welfare of the flood-affected people at the beginning of the briefing, when he hailed the Geneva meeting as a success.</p>

<p>33 million people were impacted and 1,739 people died as a result of the disastrous floods that hit Pakistan last year.</p>

<p>He also lauded&nbsp;Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari for his efforts in meeting foreign dignitaries and raising "the case of Pakistan effectively".</p>

<p>In his address, Bilawal said that by securing relief for flood victims and refuting the misconception that Pakistan was alone, the administration had hit "two targets with a single shot."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ishaq Dar, Pakistan's finance minister, stated on Wednesday that about 90% of the international community's promises for the flood-affected nation were project loans that will be disbursed over the following three years.

Ishaq Dar, Pakistan's finance minister, stated on Wednesday that about 90% of the international community's promises for the flood-affected nation were project loans that will be disbursed over the following three years. His comments come two days after the international world promised around $10 billion at a donors' summit in Geneva to assist the cash-strapped nation in rebuilding after last year's devastating floods in a climate-resilient way. The summit, which lasted the entire day and was co-hosted by Pakistan and the UN in Geneva on Monday, brought together representatives from almost 40 nations as well as private donors and international financial organisations. Dar had to clarify that USD 8.7 billion of the commitments were loans since there was uncertainty regarding the type of financial assistance even though he remained mum on the conditions of these loans. Also read | Former Pak PM Imran Khan condemns Sharif-led govt for its 'irresponsible statements' on Taliban The cash-strapped nation "expects the terms to be lenient," Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said in a press conference, adding that the pledged sum will be distributed over the following three years. The Asian Development Bank, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, and the World Bank all made pledges, according to the finance minister, bringing total project loan financing to over USD 8 billion. Also watch | Pakistan’s former Poverty Alleviation Minister Dr. Sania Nishtar speaks to WION’s Anas Mallick "I am not incorporating the pledge made by the Saudi Development Bank on purpose here because it is not clear whether their announcement of USD 1 billion pertains to programme lending or project loan," Dar said. The prime minister had earlier vowed that funds donated by the international community will be used for the welfare of the flood-affected people at the beginning of the briefing, when he hailed the Geneva meeting as a success. 33 million people were impacted and 1,739 people died as a result of the disastrous floods that hit Pakistan last year. He also lauded Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari for his efforts in meeting foreign dignitaries and raising "the case of Pakistan effectively". In his address, Bilawal said that by securing relief for flood victims and refuting the misconception that Pakistan was alone, the administration had hit "two targets with a single shot." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pakistan minister reveals 90% pledges by int'l community at Geneva conference were project ‘loans’

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