<p>UN Secretary-General António Guterres has warned against allowing any role for artificial intelligence in the decision to launch nuclear weapons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He told a session of the Arms Control Association (ACA) that "humanity is on a knife's edge", with the risk of nuclear conflict at "heights not seen since the Cold War".&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>UN chief's warning</strong></h2>

<p>"States are engaged in a qualitative arms race," Guterres said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Technologies like artificial intelligence are multiplying the danger. Nuclear blackmail has re-emerged with some recklessly threatening nuclear catastrophe. Meanwhile, the regime designed to prevent the use, testing, and proliferation of nuclear weapons is weakening. Dear friends, we need disarmament now."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/convicted-felon-trump-seeks-freedom-to-speak-urges-judge-to-lift-gag-order-amid-biden-attacks-731251">'Convicted felon' Trump seeks freedom to speak, urges judge to lift gag order amid Biden attacks</a></strong></p>

<p>He said countries should be disarmed, and nuclear-armed states need to give an example to the world. You can watch what he said here:</p>

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<p>In a statement, he urged the "United States and the Russian Federation to get back to the negotiating table, fully implement the new START treaty, and agree on its successor".</p>

<p>"Until these weapons are eliminated, all countries must agree that any decision on nuclear use is made by humans; not machines or algorithms."</p>

<p>Guterres' warning comes against the backdrop of recent concerns around the role of AI in the Gaza and the Ukraine wars.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-some-changes-proposed-by-hamas-in-ceasefire-deal-unworkable-will-try-to-close-the-deal-731261">US says some changes proposed by Hamas in ceasefire deal 'unworkable', will try to 'close the deal'</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Automated nuclear weapons: A new thing?</strong></h2>

<p>As per IFL Science, while the idea of nuclear-armed AI may appear far off, historical precedent suggests these kinds of dangers are possible with any automated system.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Soviet Union, during the Cold War, designed something they nicknamed "dead hand" as a way to ensure that nuclear retaliation would happen in the event a nuclear attack had destroyed the rest of their command structure.&nbsp;To do this, the system monitors various signs of a nuclear attack. If confirmed, the system would check communication lines between top Soviet officials and, in the absence of that, transfer launch authority to lower-level operators in a bunker.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though it was never used, its risks were highlighted by a near miss on September 26, 1983: on that day, a Soviet missile detection system falsely reported an incoming nuclear strike from the United States. Fortunately, a Soviet military officer, Stanislav Petrov, averted a response at that time. Further analysis showed that sunlight glinted from high-altitude clouds and was misinterpreted by the satellite data.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


UN Secretary-General António Guterres has warned against allowing any role for artificial intelligence in the decision to launch nuclear weapons. He told a session of the Arms Control Association (ACA) that "humanity is on a knife's edge", with the risk of nuclear conflict at "heights not seen since the Cold War".

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has warned against allowing any role for artificial intelligence in the decision to launch nuclear weapons. He told a session of the Arms Control Association (ACA) that "humanity is on a knife's edge", with the risk of nuclear conflict at "heights not seen since the Cold War". UN chief's warning "States are engaged in a qualitative arms race," Guterres said. "Technologies like artificial intelligence are multiplying the danger. Nuclear blackmail has re-emerged with some recklessly threatening nuclear catastrophe. Meanwhile, the regime designed to prevent the use, testing, and proliferation of nuclear weapons is weakening. Dear friends, we need disarmament now." Also read | 'Convicted felon' Trump seeks freedom to speak, urges judge to lift gag order amid Biden attacks He said countries should be disarmed, and nuclear-armed states need to give an example to the world. You can watch what he said here: × In a statement, he urged the "United States and the Russian Federation to get back to the negotiating table, fully implement the new START treaty, and agree on its successor". "Until these weapons are eliminated, all countries must agree that any decision on nuclear use is made by humans; not machines or algorithms." Guterres' warning comes against the backdrop of recent concerns around the role of AI in the Gaza and the Ukraine wars. Also read | US says some changes proposed by Hamas in ceasefire deal 'unworkable', will try to 'close the deal' Automated nuclear weapons: A new thing? As per IFL Science, while the idea of nuclear-armed AI may appear far off, historical precedent suggests these kinds of dangers are possible with any automated system. The Soviet Union, during the Cold War, designed something they nicknamed "dead hand" as a way to ensure that nuclear retaliation would happen in the event a nuclear attack had destroyed the rest of their command structure. To do this, the system monitors various signs of a nuclear attack. If confirmed, the system would check communication lines between top Soviet officials and, in the absence of that, transfer launch authority to lower-level operators in a bunker. Though it was never used, its risks were highlighted by a near miss on September 26, 1983: on that day, a Soviet missile detection system falsely reported an incoming nuclear strike from the United States. Fortunately, a Soviet military officer, Stanislav Petrov, averted a response at that time. Further analysis showed that sunlight glinted from high-altitude clouds and was misinterpreted by the satellite data. (With inputs from agencies)

'Knife's edge': UN chief Guterres warns world leaders to keep AI out of nuclear decisions

<p>A concerning UN report claims to have found evidence of violence against children reaching "extreme levels" in armed conflicts — particularly in Gaza and Sudan — in 2023.</p>

<p>The upcoming report obtained by AFP is the United Nations' annual "Children in Armed Conflict" report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am appalled by the dramatic increase in grave violations," wrote Secretary-General António Guterres in the report.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-pushes-for-gaza-peace-blinken-visits-israel-and-egypt-to-secure-ceasefire-730711">US pushes for Gaza peace: Blinken visits Israel and Egypt to secure ceasefire</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Disturbing increase in violence</strong></h2>

<p>The report, prepared by Guterres and due for release on Thursday, highlights a 21 per cent increase in grave violations against children in 2023, totalling 30,705 verified violations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These included 5,301 killings, 6,348 injuries, 8,655 instances of child recruitment and use in conflicts, 5,205 denials of humanitarian access&nbsp;and 4,356 kidnappings.</p>

<p>"In 2023, violence against children in armed conflict reached extreme levels, with a shocking 21 per cent increase in grave violations," said the report.</p>

<p>Findings of the report are unprecedented, said a senior UN official speaking to AFP on condition of anonymity.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shocking-unicef-report-400-million-children-under-five-face-violence-at-home-730683">Shocking UNICEF report: 400 million children under five face violence at home</a></strong></p>

<p>"We've never verified so many violations against children as last year."</p>

<p>Last year, "children bore the brunt of multiplying and escalating crises that were marked by a complete disregard for child rights, notably the inherent right to life," said the report.</p>

<h2><strong>Blacklisted organisations</strong></h2>

<p>The report places a number of entities on the blacklist for "killing and maiming children, and for attacks on schools and hospitals."</p>

<p>This in Sudan includes the Sudanese army and the rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The RSF was listed for recruiting children and committing "rape and other forms of sexual violence against children," alongside attacks on schools and hospitals.</p>

<p>Additionally, Hamas and the armed wing of Palestinian Islamic Jihad were added to the blacklist for the October 7 attack on Israel. The Israeli army was blacklisted for its retaliatory campaign against Hamas in Gaza.</p>

<p>The Russian army and "affiliated armed groups" also remain on the blacklist for killing 80 children in Ukraine in 2023 and injuring 339.</p>

<h2><strong>Sudan conflict and the children&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In Sudan, grave violations against children surged by "a staggering 480 per cent" from 2022 to 2023.</p>

<h2><strong>Israel-Hamas war and the children</strong></h2>

<p>The conflict in the Middle East saw a 155 per cent increase in grave violations against children.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On October 7, 43 Israeli children were killed and an additional 47 Israeli children were abducted by Hamas and other Palestinian groups.</p>

<p>The retaliatory attack, as verified by the UN, has claimed the lives of 2,141 Palestinian children in the Gaza Strip, with 2,051 killed between October 7 and December 31.</p>

<p>Furthermore, 23,000 reports of grave violations against children are yet to be verified. This includes&nbsp;violations against 3,900 Israeli children and 19,887 Palestinian children.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report covers approximately 20 conflict zones worldwide, detailing the killing, injuring, recruitment, kidnapping, and sexual violence against children.&nbsp;It verified 30,705 "grave violations" committed last year, including during the Gaza war.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A concerning UN report claims to have found evidence of violence against children reaching "extreme levels" in armed conflicts — particularly in Gaza and Sudan — in 2023.

A concerning UN report claims to have found evidence of violence against children reaching "extreme levels" in armed conflicts — particularly in Gaza and Sudan — in 2023. The upcoming report obtained by AFP is the United Nations' annual "Children in Armed Conflict" report. "I am appalled by the dramatic increase in grave violations," wrote Secretary-General António Guterres in the report. Also read | US pushes for Gaza peace: Blinken visits Israel and Egypt to secure ceasefire Disturbing increase in violence The report, prepared by Guterres and due for release on Thursday, highlights a 21 per cent increase in grave violations against children in 2023, totalling 30,705 verified violations. These included 5,301 killings, 6,348 injuries, 8,655 instances of child recruitment and use in conflicts, 5,205 denials of humanitarian access and 4,356 kidnappings. "In 2023, violence against children in armed conflict reached extreme levels, with a shocking 21 per cent increase in grave violations," said the report. Findings of the report are unprecedented, said a senior UN official speaking to AFP on condition of anonymity. Also read | Shocking UNICEF report: 400 million children under five face violence at home "We've never verified so many violations against children as last year." Last year, "children bore the brunt of multiplying and escalating crises that were marked by a complete disregard for child rights, notably the inherent right to life," said the report. Blacklisted organisations The report places a number of entities on the blacklist for "killing and maiming children, and for attacks on schools and hospitals." This in Sudan includes the Sudanese army and the rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The RSF was listed for recruiting children and committing "rape and other forms of sexual violence against children," alongside attacks on schools and hospitals. Additionally, Hamas and the armed wing of Palestinian Islamic Jihad were added to the blacklist for the October 7 attack on Israel. The Israeli army was blacklisted for its retaliatory campaign against Hamas in Gaza. The Russian army and "affiliated armed groups" also remain on the blacklist for killing 80 children in Ukraine in 2023 and injuring 339. Sudan conflict and the children In Sudan, grave violations against children surged by "a staggering 480 per cent" from 2022 to 2023. Israel-Hamas war and the children The conflict in the Middle East saw a 155 per cent increase in grave violations against children. On October 7, 43 Israeli children were killed and an additional 47 Israeli children were abducted by Hamas and other Palestinian groups. The retaliatory attack, as verified by the UN, has claimed the lives of 2,141 Palestinian children in the Gaza Strip, with 2,051 killed between October 7 and December 31. Furthermore, 23,000 reports of grave violations against children are yet to be verified. This includes violations against 3,900 Israeli children and 19,887 Palestinian children. The report covers approximately 20 conflict zones worldwide, detailing the killing, injuring, recruitment, kidnapping, and sexual violence against children. It verified 30,705 "grave violations" committed last year, including during the Gaza war. (With inputs from agencies)

UN report exposes 'extreme levels' of child abuse in armed conflicts, especially in Gaza and Sudan

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has slammed governments for buying weapons at the cost of policies to tackle the climate crisis. The UN chief said it is distressing to see governments spending heavily on arms, while starving budgets for climate action.

UN chief slams 'distressing' spending on conflicts at the cost of climate policies

<p>UN&nbsp;Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has taken steps to address the scandal surrounding the UN&nbsp;Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), responsible for Palestinian refugees, by appointing former French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna to lead an independent review. UNRWA is facing a funding crisis after admitting that some of its staff members were involved in the Hamas terror attack on Israel in October 7 last year.</p>

<p>The agency faces the potential loss of over $400 million in donor contributions. Colonna, along with three research organisations, will assess UNRWA's neutrality and respond to serious breach allegations, as reported by Voice of America (VOA).</p>

<p>The review group is set to commence work on February 14, with a preliminary report due in late March and a final public report expected by the end of April. Colonna will collaborate with the Raoul Wallenberg Institute in Sweden, the Christian Michelsen Institute in Norway, and the Danish Institute for Human Rights.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations to the <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> on forming the investigative committee. We will submit all evidence highlighting <a href="https://twitter.com/UNRWA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UNRWA</a>'s ties to terrorism and its harmful effects on regional stability. It is imperative that this committee brings the truth to light, necessitating the immediate…</p>
— ישראל כ”ץ Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) <a href="https://twitter.com/Israel_katz/status/1754547350758961622?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Background of UNRWA's scrutiny</strong></h2>

<p>The controversy escalated when Israel provided information to the UN, alleging the involvement of a dozen UNRWA staffers in the October 7 terror attacks inside Israel.</p>

<p>The UN&nbsp;terminated nine of them, confirmed one's death, and is clarifying the identities of two others. Israel has long criticised UNRWA, accusing it of ties to terrorism and promoting an anti-Israel curriculum.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/foreign-minister-ahmed-awad-bin-mubarak-named-yemens-new-prime-minister-687355">Also read |&nbsp;Foreign minister Ahmed Awad Bin Mubarak named Yemen's new prime minister</a></p>

<p>The review group's efforts are distinct from the internal UN&nbsp;investigation into the October 7 allegations, occurring simultaneously.</p>

<p>UNRWA has warned of potential shutdown of relief operations by the end of February without swift funding restoration. Sixteen countries, including major donor the United States, have suspended contributions pending investigation outcomes.</p>

<p>The review group's mandate includes examining policy and procedural failures within UNRWA, offering recommendations for improvements or new ones to align the agency with its mission.</p>

<p>Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini had previously announced a review of UNRWA's operations in mid-January, emphasising the goal of making the organisation more effective and purposeful.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Ukraine’s president confirms plans for military shake-up</strong></p>

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<p>As UNRWA grapples with the potential funding crisis, about 3,000 of its 13,000 staff in Gaza continue daily operations to assist&nbsp;two million Palestinians.</p>

<p>The UN&nbsp;aims to keep communication open with donors, hoping they recognise the swift actions taken to address the issues head-on.</p>

<p>The situation remains complex, with parallel investigations, potential funding challenges, and a comprehensive review aimed at reshaping UNRWA's future.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has taken steps to address the scandal surrounding the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), responsible for Palestinian refugees, by appointing former French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna to lead an independent review.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has taken steps to address the scandal surrounding the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), responsible for Palestinian refugees, by appointing former French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna to lead an independent review. UNRWA is facing a funding crisis after admitting that some of its staff members were involved in the Hamas terror attack on Israel in October 7 last year. The agency faces the potential loss of over $400 million in donor contributions. Colonna, along with three research organisations, will assess UNRWA's neutrality and respond to serious breach allegations, as reported by Voice of America (VOA). The review group is set to commence work on February 14, with a preliminary report due in late March and a final public report expected by the end of April. Colonna will collaborate with the Raoul Wallenberg Institute in Sweden, the Christian Michelsen Institute in Norway, and the Danish Institute for Human Rights. Congratulations to the @UN on forming the investigative committee. We will submit all evidence highlighting @UNRWA's ties to terrorism and its harmful effects on regional stability. It is imperative that this committee brings the truth to light, necessitating the immediate… — ישראל כ”ץ Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) February 5, 2024 × Background of UNRWA's scrutiny The controversy escalated when Israel provided information to the UN, alleging the involvement of a dozen UNRWA staffers in the October 7 terror attacks inside Israel. The UN terminated nine of them, confirmed one's death, and is clarifying the identities of two others. Israel has long criticised UNRWA, accusing it of ties to terrorism and promoting an anti-Israel curriculum. Also read | Foreign minister Ahmed Awad Bin Mubarak named Yemen's new prime minister The review group's efforts are distinct from the internal UN investigation into the October 7 allegations, occurring simultaneously. UNRWA has warned of potential shutdown of relief operations by the end of February without swift funding restoration. Sixteen countries, including major donor the United States, have suspended contributions pending investigation outcomes. The review group's mandate includes examining policy and procedural failures within UNRWA, offering recommendations for improvements or new ones to align the agency with its mission. Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini had previously announced a review of UNRWA's operations in mid-January, emphasising the goal of making the organisation more effective and purposeful. Also watch | Ukraine’s president confirms plans for military shake-up As UNRWA grapples with the potential funding crisis, about 3,000 of its 13,000 staff in Gaza continue daily operations to assist two million Palestinians. The UN aims to keep communication open with donors, hoping they recognise the swift actions taken to address the issues head-on. The situation remains complex, with parallel investigations, potential funding challenges, and a comprehensive review aimed at reshaping UNRWA's future. (With inputs from agencies)

UN chief says independent panel to evaluate UNRWA agency in Gaza amid Hamas link row

United Nations Secretary Secretary-General Antonio Guterres vows to hold to account "any UN employee involved in acts of terror" after allegations that some Palestinian refugee agency staffers were involved in the October 7 Hamas attack.

UN Chief vows action as several key donor nations pause funding

<p>Elon Musk, the world’s richest man and the ‘Chief Troll Officer’ at X, has supported India’s bid to have a permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Musk said in a post that it was absurd the most populous country on the planet is not fairly represented at the UN body. He added that Africa should also have a collective seat at the UN.</p>

<p>“At some point, there needs to be a revision of the UN bodies. Problem is that those with excess power don’t want to give it up,” Musk wrote in the post.</p>

<p>“India not having a permanent seat on the Security Council, despite being the most populous country on Earth, is absurd. Africa collectively should also have a permanent seat imo,” he added.</p>

<p>Earlier, in a post on X, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also made an appeal to the P5 nations to implement reforms at the elite table. As of now, the P5 or five permanent members—Russia, the UK, China, France, and the United States—hold veto power over any substantial resolution.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">How can we accept that Africa still lacks a single Permanent Member in the Security Council?<br />
<br />
Institutions must reflect today’s world, not that of 80 years ago.<br />
<br />
September’s Summit of the Future will be an opportunity to consider global governance reforms &amp; re-build trust.</p>
— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) <a href="https://twitter.com/antonioguterres/status/1748798995646894315?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>“Institutions must reflect today’s world, not that of 80 years ago. September’s Summit of the Future will be an opportunity to consider global governance reforms &amp; rebuild trust,” Guterres posted on X, asking why Africa still lacks a permanent membership.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Elon Musk's Tesla to enter India soon?</strong></p>

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<p>Quoting this post, Michael Eisenberg, a venture capitalist, wrote, “And what about India? Better yet is to dismantle the United Nations and build something new with real leadership.”</p>

<p>Musk’s post came in response to Eisenberg.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">At some point, there needs to be a revision of the UN bodies.<br />
<br />
Problem is that those with excess power don’t want to give it up.<br />
<br />
India not having a permanent seat on the Security Council, despite being the most populous country on Earth, is absurd.<br />
<br />
Africa collectively should…</p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1749071838028706025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>India, the world’s most populous nation and fifth-largest economy, has on several occasions voiced its frustration with the lack of progress in reforming the UNSC.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had last year said that it was important for multilateral institutions to change with time to maintain their relevance.</p>

<p>"Today’s world is a multipolar world where institutions are extremely important for a rules-based order that is fair and sensitive to all concerns. However, institutions can retain relevance only when they change with the times," the prime minister had said in an August 2023 interview.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw0TgXhup-np9PUU68PCahb8" data-ved="2ahUKEwipj43T7fKDAxXNSWwGHYC5CMYQxfQBKAB6BAgLEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/tesla-to-ship-cars-to-india-from-2024-set-up-factory-within-two-years-report-661140" jsname="YKoRaf">Tesla to ship cars to India from 2024, set up factory within two years: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>"A mid-20th century approach cannot serve the world in the 21st century. So, our international institutions need to recognise changing realities, expand their decision-making forums, relook at their priorities and ensure representation of voices that matter," the PM had added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Elon Musk, the world’s richest man and the ‘Chief Troll Officer’ at X, has supported India’s bid to have a permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

Elon Musk, the world’s richest man and the ‘Chief Troll Officer’ at X, has supported India’s bid to have a permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Musk said in a post that it was absurd the most populous country on the planet is not fairly represented at the UN body. He added that Africa should also have a collective seat at the UN. “At some point, there needs to be a revision of the UN bodies. Problem is that those with excess power don’t want to give it up,” Musk wrote in the post. “India not having a permanent seat on the Security Council, despite being the most populous country on Earth, is absurd. Africa collectively should also have a permanent seat imo,” he added. Earlier, in a post on X, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also made an appeal to the P5 nations to implement reforms at the elite table. As of now, the P5 or five permanent members—Russia, the UK, China, France, and the United States—hold veto power over any substantial resolution. How can we accept that Africa still lacks a single Permanent Member in the Security Council? Institutions must reflect today’s world, not that of 80 years ago. September’s Summit of the Future will be an opportunity to consider global governance reforms & re-build trust. — António Guterres (@antonioguterres) January 20, 2024 × “Institutions must reflect today’s world, not that of 80 years ago. September’s Summit of the Future will be an opportunity to consider global governance reforms & rebuild trust,” Guterres posted on X, asking why Africa still lacks a permanent membership. Watch: Elon Musk's Tesla to enter India soon? × Quoting this post, Michael Eisenberg, a venture capitalist, wrote, “And what about India? Better yet is to dismantle the United Nations and build something new with real leadership.” Musk’s post came in response to Eisenberg. At some point, there needs to be a revision of the UN bodies. Problem is that those with excess power don’t want to give it up. India not having a permanent seat on the Security Council, despite being the most populous country on Earth, is absurd. Africa collectively should… — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 21, 2024 × India, the world’s most populous nation and fifth-largest economy, has on several occasions voiced its frustration with the lack of progress in reforming the UNSC. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had last year said that it was important for multilateral institutions to change with time to maintain their relevance. "Today’s world is a multipolar world where institutions are extremely important for a rules-based order that is fair and sensitive to all concerns. However, institutions can retain relevance only when they change with the times," the prime minister had said in an August 2023 interview. Also read: Tesla to ship cars to India from 2024, set up factory within two years: Report "A mid-20th century approach cannot serve the world in the 21st century. So, our international institutions need to recognise changing realities, expand their decision-making forums, relook at their priorities and ensure representation of voices that matter," the PM had added. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Revision needed,’ Elon Musk throws weight behind India’s bid for permanent seat at UNSC

<p>United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an "immediate humanitarian ceasefire" in the Gaza Strip as the conflict between Israel and Hamas surpasses 100 days.</p>

<p>Guterres stressed on&nbsp;the urgent need for a ceasefire to facilitate aid delivery, release hostages, and prevent further escalation.</p>

<p>"We need an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. To ensure sufficient aid gets to where it is needed. To facilitate the release of the hostages. To tamp down the flames of wider war because the longer the conflict in Gaza continues, the greater the risk of escalation and miscalculation," Guterres said at a press briefing in New York.</p>

<p>The war, triggered by a surprise Hamas attack on Israel, has led to a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, affecting 2.4 million people and leaving much of the territory in ruins.</p>

<h2>Humanitarian catastrophe and displacement</h2>

<p>The conflict, which began with Hamas'&nbsp;October 7 attack, resulted in approximately 1,140 deaths in Israel, mainly civilians, and the seizure of around 250 hostages by militants. Israel responded with a relentless military campaign, causing the death of at least 24,100 people in Gaza. Over three months of fighting have displaced roughly 85 per cent of Gaza's population, with people seeking refuge in shelters and struggling to access essential resources such as food, water, fuel, and medical care.</p>

<p>Guterres condemned the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza as "beyond words." He highlighted the significant displacement of UN Palestinian staff, with the majority fleeing their homes, and the loss of 152 staff members since October 7—the largest single loss of life in the UN's history. Aid deliveries face challenges reaching the traumatised population, leading to the looming threat of starvation in Gaza.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;One killed, 17 injured in twin attacks in Israeli city of Ra'anana</strong></p>

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<p>Guterres unequivocally stated that nothing justifies the collective punishment of the Palestinian people. He expressed concern about the escalating spillover of the conflict, particularly across the Lebanon-Israeli border, emphasising the potential for broader escalation and its profound impact on regional stability.</p>

<p><br />
<em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an "immediate humanitarian ceasefire" in the Gaza Strip as the conflict between Israel and Hamas surpasses 100 days.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an "immediate humanitarian ceasefire" in the Gaza Strip as the conflict between Israel and Hamas surpasses 100 days. Guterres stressed on the urgent need for a ceasefire to facilitate aid delivery, release hostages, and prevent further escalation. "We need an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. To ensure sufficient aid gets to where it is needed. To facilitate the release of the hostages. To tamp down the flames of wider war because the longer the conflict in Gaza continues, the greater the risk of escalation and miscalculation," Guterres said at a press briefing in New York. The war, triggered by a surprise Hamas attack on Israel, has led to a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, affecting 2.4 million people and leaving much of the territory in ruins. Humanitarian catastrophe and displacement The conflict, which began with Hamas' October 7 attack, resulted in approximately 1,140 deaths in Israel, mainly civilians, and the seizure of around 250 hostages by militants. Israel responded with a relentless military campaign, causing the death of at least 24,100 people in Gaza. Over three months of fighting have displaced roughly 85 per cent of Gaza's population, with people seeking refuge in shelters and struggling to access essential resources such as food, water, fuel, and medical care. Guterres condemned the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza as "beyond words." He highlighted the significant displacement of UN Palestinian staff, with the majority fleeing their homes, and the loss of 152 staff members since October 7—the largest single loss of life in the UN's history. Aid deliveries face challenges reaching the traumatised population, leading to the looming threat of starvation in Gaza. Also watch | One killed, 17 injured in twin attacks in Israeli city of Ra'anana Guterres unequivocally stated that nothing justifies the collective punishment of the Palestinian people. He expressed concern about the escalating spillover of the conflict, particularly across the Lebanon-Israeli border, emphasising the potential for broader escalation and its profound impact on regional stability. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: UN chief calls for ‘immediate’ ceasefire in Gaza

Israel and UN are locked in a furious spat over the UN Secretary General Antonio Guturres' comments on the Israel-Hamas war--saying that it did not happen in a vacuum. The Secy General's comments have sparked outrage from Israel which has even asked Guterres to resign saying he has justified terrorism.

Israel accuses UN's Guterres of supporting Hamas terrorists, UNSC leaders veto resolutions| Gravitas

<p>Israel has effectively stopped issuing visas to the officials of United Nations starting Wednesday (Oct 25), a day after the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres indicated that Hamas'&nbsp;assault on Israeli civilians on October 7 was prompted by Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories, which Guterres earlier on October 25 said was 'misreported'.</p>

<p>"The attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum. Palestinians have been subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation. But their grievances cannot justify the appalling attacks by Hamas. Those attacks cannot justify the collective punishment of the Palestinians," Guterres had said.</p>

<p>Later on October 25, Guterres clarified that his remarks were misrepresented.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: UN Chief, Antonio Guterres remarks sparks row</strong></p>

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<p>"I am shocked by misrepresentations by some of my statement yesterday in the Security Council -- as if I was justifying acts of terror by Hamas," Guterres told reporters.</p>

<h2><strong>Uproar grows in Israel for Guterres to issue apology</strong></h2>

<p>Israeli officials have been railing against the UN chief and demands have erupted from inside Israel for an apology from the UN chief. The chairperson of Yad Vashem Holocaust museum in Jerusalem said that Guterres "failed the test" of the "Never again" call to prevent any event towards the extermination of Jewish population after the events of second world war.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-envoy-demands-immediate-resignation-of-un-chief-after-he-raises-concerns-over-violation-of-law-in-gaza-650832">Israeli envoy demands resignation of UN Chief over his ‘Hamas attacks not in a vacuum remark’</a></strong></p>

<p>Guterres’s comments drew widespread&nbsp;outrage in Israel.</p>

<p>Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations Gilad Erdan described them as "shocking" and demanded that the secretary general resign.</p>

<p>Foreign Minister Eli Cohen reportedly&nbsp;cancelled a meeting with Guterres, and Minister Benny Gantz labeled the UN chief a "terror apologist."</p>

<p>The strongly worded reactions continued on Wednesday morning.</p>

<p>Israel's foreign ministry wrote on X, that Guterres’s remarks "provoke anger and astonishment and tarnish both him and the organization he heads," and reflect "a biased and distorted attitude towards Israel on the part of the UN and especially on the part of the Secretary-General himself."</p>

<p>"The UN Secretary-General must retract his words, engage in deep personal soul-searching and apologize for his statement, which distressed millions of Israelis who are still experiencing the consequences of the murderous terrorist attack of October 7," the ministry added.</p>

<h2><strong>Israel's new visa policy towards UN officials</strong></h2>

<p>Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations Gilad Erdan, in an interview with Army Radio, vowed to teach the UN a lesson with a punishing visa policy.</p>

<p>"Due to his remarks, we will refuse to issue visas to UN representatives," Erdan said. "We have already refused a visa for Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths. The time has come to teach them a lesson."</p>


Israel has effectively stopped issuing visas to the officials of United Nations starting Wednesday (Oct 25), a day after the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres indicated that Hamas' assault on Israeli civilians on October 7 was prompted by Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories, which Guterres earlier on October 25 said was 'misreported'.

Israel has effectively stopped issuing visas to the officials of United Nations starting Wednesday (Oct 25), a day after the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres indicated that Hamas' assault on Israeli civilians on October 7 was prompted by Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories, which Guterres earlier on October 25 said was 'misreported'. "The attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum. Palestinians have been subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation. But their grievances cannot justify the appalling attacks by Hamas. Those attacks cannot justify the collective punishment of the Palestinians," Guterres had said. Later on October 25, Guterres clarified that his remarks were misrepresented. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: UN Chief, Antonio Guterres remarks sparks row × "I am shocked by misrepresentations by some of my statement yesterday in the Security Council -- as if I was justifying acts of terror by Hamas," Guterres told reporters. Uproar grows in Israel for Guterres to issue apology Israeli officials have been railing against the UN chief and demands have erupted from inside Israel for an apology from the UN chief. The chairperson of Yad Vashem Holocaust museum in Jerusalem said that Guterres "failed the test" of the "Never again" call to prevent any event towards the extermination of Jewish population after the events of second world war. Also read | Israeli envoy demands resignation of UN Chief over his ‘Hamas attacks not in a vacuum remark’ Guterres’s comments drew widespread outrage in Israel. Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations Gilad Erdan described them as "shocking" and demanded that the secretary general resign. Foreign Minister Eli Cohen reportedly cancelled a meeting with Guterres, and Minister Benny Gantz labeled the UN chief a "terror apologist." The strongly worded reactions continued on Wednesday morning. Israel's foreign ministry wrote on X, that Guterres’s remarks "provoke anger and astonishment and tarnish both him and the organization he heads," and reflect "a biased and distorted attitude towards Israel on the part of the UN and especially on the part of the Secretary-General himself." "The UN Secretary-General must retract his words, engage in deep personal soul-searching and apologize for his statement, which distressed millions of Israelis who are still experiencing the consequences of the murderous terrorist attack of October 7," the ministry added. Israel's new visa policy towards UN officials Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations Gilad Erdan, in an interview with Army Radio, vowed to teach the UN a lesson with a punishing visa policy. "Due to his remarks, we will refuse to issue visas to UN representatives," Erdan said. "We have already refused a visa for Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths. The time has come to teach them a lesson."

Israel stops UN staff visas after Antonio Guterres is branded 'terror apologist' for his Hamas remarks

<p>United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Wednesday (Oct 25) expressed “shock” over the gross “misinterpretation” of his remarks made in the Security Council, after Israel perceived them to be justifying Hamas terrorist’s October 7 attack.</p>

<p>Israel was peeved with the UN secretary-general on Tuesday for saying that the deadly Hamas attack on southern Israel “did not happen in a vacuum”.</p>

<p>Israeli ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan accused him of "justifying terrorism" and demanded his immediate resignation.</p>

<p>Briefing the reporters on Wednesday, Guterres, without mentioning Israel, said, “I am shocked by misinterpretations by some of my statement yesterday in the Security Council – as if it was justifying acts of terror by Hamas. This is false. It was the opposite.”</p>

<p>“In the beginning of my intervention yesterday, I clearly stated – and I quote: ‘I have condemned unequivocally the horrifying and unprecedented 7 October acts of terror by Hamas in Israel’.”</p>

<p>He clarified that his remarks in no way justified the assault by Hamas.</p>

<p>“Nothing can justify the deliberate killing, injuring and kidnapping of civilians – or the launching of rockets against civilian targets.” &nbsp;</p>

<p>“I spoke of the grievances of the Palestinian people. In doing so, I clearly stated, and I quote: ‘But the grievances of the Palestinian people cannot justify the appalling attacks by Hamas’.”</p>

<p>He said that he was clarifying his earlier remarks in order to “set the record straight”.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-stops-un-staff-visas-after-antonio-guterres-branded-terror-apologist-over-controversial-hamas-remarks-651243">Israel stops UN staff visas after Antonio Guterres branded 'terror apologist' over controversial Hamas remarks</a></p>

<p>“I believe it’s necessary to set the record straight – especially out of respect for the victims and their families.”</p>

<h2><strong>What did Guterres say that irked Israel?</strong></h2>

<p>On Tuesday, while addressing the Security Council in New York, the UN chief&nbsp;said that it was "important to "recognize the attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum" as the Palestinians have been "subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-envoy-demands-immediate-resignation-of-un-chief-after-he-raises-concerns-over-violation-of-law-in-gaza-650832">Israeli envoy demands resignation of UN Chief over his ‘Hamas attacks not in a vacuum remark’</a></strong></p>

<p>He further said that&nbsp;Israel’s bombardment and blockade of the&nbsp;Gaza&nbsp;Strip was the “collective punishment of the Palestinian people” and “clear violations of international humanitarian law”, infuriating not only Israel but also some Republican members.</p>

<h2><strong>Israel vows to punish UN with its visa policy&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The remarks created furore in Israel, with&nbsp;Foreign Minister Eli Cohen cancelling&nbsp;a meeting with&nbsp;Guterres and&nbsp;Israel’s envoy to UN Gilad Erdan demanded his resignation, saying that the<strong>&nbsp;</strong>UN chief has "expressed an understanding for terrorism and murder."</p>

<p>Erdan even went a step further by threatening to refuse visas to the UN representatives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Due to his remarks we will refuse to issue visas to UN representatives," Erdan said. "We have already refused a visa for Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths. The time has come to teach them a lesson."</p>


United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Wednesday (Oct 25) expressed “shock” over the gross “misinterpretation” of his remarks made in the Security Council, after Israel perceived them to be justifying Hamas terrorist’s October 7 attack.

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Wednesday (Oct 25) expressed “shock” over the gross “misinterpretation” of his remarks made in the Security Council, after Israel perceived them to be justifying Hamas terrorist’s October 7 attack. Israel was peeved with the UN secretary-general on Tuesday for saying that the deadly Hamas attack on southern Israel “did not happen in a vacuum”. Israeli ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan accused him of "justifying terrorism" and demanded his immediate resignation. Briefing the reporters on Wednesday, Guterres, without mentioning Israel, said, “I am shocked by misinterpretations by some of my statement yesterday in the Security Council – as if it was justifying acts of terror by Hamas. This is false. It was the opposite.” “In the beginning of my intervention yesterday, I clearly stated – and I quote: ‘I have condemned unequivocally the horrifying and unprecedented 7 October acts of terror by Hamas in Israel’.” He clarified that his remarks in no way justified the assault by Hamas. “Nothing can justify the deliberate killing, injuring and kidnapping of civilians – or the launching of rockets against civilian targets.” “I spoke of the grievances of the Palestinian people. In doing so, I clearly stated, and I quote: ‘But the grievances of the Palestinian people cannot justify the appalling attacks by Hamas’.” He said that he was clarifying his earlier remarks in order to “set the record straight”. Also read | Israel stops UN staff visas after Antonio Guterres branded 'terror apologist' over controversial Hamas remarks “I believe it’s necessary to set the record straight – especially out of respect for the victims and their families.” What did Guterres say that irked Israel? On Tuesday, while addressing the Security Council in New York, the UN chief said that it was "important to "recognize the attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum" as the Palestinians have been "subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation." Also read | Israeli envoy demands resignation of UN Chief over his ‘Hamas attacks not in a vacuum remark’ He further said that Israel’s bombardment and blockade of the Gaza Strip was the “collective punishment of the Palestinian people” and “clear violations of international humanitarian law”, infuriating not only Israel but also some Republican members. Israel vows to punish UN with its visa policy The remarks created furore in Israel, with Foreign Minister Eli Cohen cancelling a meeting with Guterres and Israel’s envoy to UN Gilad Erdan demanded his resignation, saying that the UN chief has "expressed an understanding for terrorism and murder." Erdan even went a step further by threatening to refuse visas to the UN representatives. "Due to his remarks we will refuse to issue visas to UN representatives," Erdan said. "We have already refused a visa for Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths. The time has come to teach them a lesson."

‘Need to set the record straight’: UN chief clarifies his Hamas remarks that riled Israel

<p>United Nations chief Antonio Guterres, on Saturday (Oct 21), urged for a "humanitarian ceasefire" in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas that has ravaged most parts of Gaza, demanding "action to end this godawful nightmare".</p>

<p>Guterres, while addressing a Cairo summit, said that the Palestinian enclave of 2.4 million people was living through "a humanitarian catastrophe" with thousands dead and more than a million displaced.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We meet in the heart of a region that is reeling in pain and one step from the precipice," he told the meeting that included the leaders of Egypt, Iraq, Jordan and the United Arab Emirates as well as of Italy, Spain and Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas.</p>

<p>On Oct 7, Hamas took the world by surprise after it launched an unprecedented attack against Israel. The violence in the region has claimed the lives of at least 1,400 people, which includes mostly civilians.</p>

<p>Guterres said "the grievances of the Palestinian people are legitimate and long" after "56 years of occupation with no end in sight" but stressed that "nothing can justify the reprehensible assault by Hamas that terrorised Israeli civilians".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He then stressed that "those abhorrent attacks can never justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people".</p>

<p>Jordan's King Abdullah II called for "an immediate end to the war on Gaza" and condemned what he labelled "global silence" on Palestinian death and suffering.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-cairo-peace-summit-palestinian-president-abbas-warns-of-any-attempts-to-displace-people-from-gaza-649661">At Cairo Peace Summit, Palestinian President Abbas warns of any attempts to displace people from Gaza</a></p>

<p>"The message the Arab world is hearing is loud and clear: Palestinian lives matter less than Israeli ones. Our lives matter less than other lives," he charged.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The application of international law is optional. And human rights have boundaries -- they stop at borders, they stop at races, and they stop at religions."</p>

<p>The summit comes on the day when a convoy of 20 trucks, carrying humanitarian aid, entered the Gaza Strip from Egypt through the Rafah crossing.</p>

<p>"The relief aid convoy that is supposed to enter [Gaza] today includes 20 trucks that carry medicine, medical supplies, and a limited amount of food supplies (canned goods)," said Hamas's media office, in a statement.</p>

<p>The UN has said that about 100 trucks per day are needed to meet worsening needs in Gaza.</p>

<p>The Palestinians need "a continuous delivery of aid to Gaza at the scale that is needed", the UN chief told the Cairo "Summit for Peace".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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United Nations chief Antonio Guterres, on Saturday (Oct 21), urged for a "humanitarian ceasefire" in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas that has ravaged most parts of Gaza, demanding "action to end this godawful nightmare".

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres, on Saturday (Oct 21), urged for a "humanitarian ceasefire" in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas that has ravaged most parts of Gaza, demanding "action to end this godawful nightmare". Guterres, while addressing a Cairo summit, said that the Palestinian enclave of 2.4 million people was living through "a humanitarian catastrophe" with thousands dead and more than a million displaced. "We meet in the heart of a region that is reeling in pain and one step from the precipice," he told the meeting that included the leaders of Egypt, Iraq, Jordan and the United Arab Emirates as well as of Italy, Spain and Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas. On Oct 7, Hamas took the world by surprise after it launched an unprecedented attack against Israel. The violence in the region has claimed the lives of at least 1,400 people, which includes mostly civilians. Guterres said "the grievances of the Palestinian people are legitimate and long" after "56 years of occupation with no end in sight" but stressed that "nothing can justify the reprehensible assault by Hamas that terrorised Israeli civilians". He then stressed that "those abhorrent attacks can never justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people". Jordan's King Abdullah II called for "an immediate end to the war on Gaza" and condemned what he labelled "global silence" on Palestinian death and suffering. Also read: At Cairo Peace Summit, Palestinian President Abbas warns of any attempts to displace people from Gaza "The message the Arab world is hearing is loud and clear: Palestinian lives matter less than Israeli ones. Our lives matter less than other lives," he charged. "The application of international law is optional. And human rights have boundaries -- they stop at borders, they stop at races, and they stop at religions." The summit comes on the day when a convoy of 20 trucks, carrying humanitarian aid, entered the Gaza Strip from Egypt through the Rafah crossing. "The relief aid convoy that is supposed to enter [Gaza] today includes 20 trucks that carry medicine, medical supplies, and a limited amount of food supplies (canned goods)," said Hamas's media office, in a statement. The UN has said that about 100 trucks per day are needed to meet worsening needs in Gaza. The Palestinians need "a continuous delivery of aid to Gaza at the scale that is needed", the UN chief told the Cairo "Summit for Peace". (With inputs from agencies) 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 chief Antonio Guterres urges ceasefire to end Gaza's 'godawful nightmare'

<p>The military leaders who overthrew Niger's president criticised late Friday the "perfidious actions" of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, accusing him of obstructing their participation in the body's General Assembly.</p>

<p>President Mohamed Bazoum was overthrown by the military on July 26 and has been detained at home with his wife and child since.</p>

<p>Military chiefs say they plan for a three-year transition period to restore constitutional order.</p>

<p>The fourth West African nation since 2020 to suffer a coup, Niger has come under sanctions and threats of military intervention from the Economic Community of West African States.</p>

<p>Bazoum's removal has also been strongly criticised by Western governments and global bodies, such as the United Nations.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-says-french-ambassador-to-niger-literally-being-held-hostage-636451"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Macron says French ambassador to Niger 'literally' being held hostage</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Niger leaders criticise Guterres</strong></h2>

<p>In a news release read on public television, the military called on "the national and international community to witness the perfidious actions of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, which are likely to undermine any effort to end the crisis in our country".</p>

<p>Guterres "went astray in the exercise of his mission by obstructing Niger's full participation in the 78th session of the UN General Assembly", it added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-is-niger-a-victim-of-foreign-exploitation-624905"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: Is Niger a victim of foreign exploitation?</strong></a></p>

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<p>Global leaders have descended on New York this week for the annual UN General Assembly.</p>

<p>Bakary Yaou Sangare, who before the coup was Niger's ambassador to the UN and is now its foreign minister, was set to represent Niamey at the gathering.</p>

<p>"Mr Guterres not only refused to take note of the official list of delegates from Niger... but above all acceded to the fanciful request of the former minister of foreign affairs Hassoumi Massaoudou tending to revoke the permanent representative of Niger to the United Nations", the military statement said.</p>

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The military leaders who overthrew Niger's president criticised late Friday the "perfidious actions" of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, accusing him of obstructing their participation in the body's General Assembly.

The military leaders who overthrew Niger's president criticised late Friday the "perfidious actions" of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, accusing him of obstructing their participation in the body's General Assembly. President Mohamed Bazoum was overthrown by the military on July 26 and has been detained at home with his wife and child since. Military chiefs say they plan for a three-year transition period to restore constitutional order. The fourth West African nation since 2020 to suffer a coup, Niger has come under sanctions and threats of military intervention from the Economic Community of West African States. Bazoum's removal has also been strongly criticised by Western governments and global bodies, such as the United Nations. Also read | Macron says French ambassador to Niger 'literally' being held hostage Niger leaders criticise Guterres In a news release read on public television, the military called on "the national and international community to witness the perfidious actions of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, which are likely to undermine any effort to end the crisis in our country". Guterres "went astray in the exercise of his mission by obstructing Niger's full participation in the 78th session of the UN General Assembly", it added. Watch | Gravitas Plus: Is Niger a victim of foreign exploitation? × Global leaders have descended on New York this week for the annual UN General Assembly. Bakary Yaou Sangare, who before the coup was Niger's ambassador to the UN and is now its foreign minister, was set to represent Niamey at the gathering. "Mr Guterres not only refused to take note of the official list of delegates from Niger... but above all acceded to the fanciful request of the former minister of foreign affairs Hassoumi Massaoudou tending to revoke the permanent representative of Niger to the United Nations", the military statement said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'He obstructed...': Niger junta rulers slam Antonio Guterres for UNGA snub

<p>UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for reforms in multilateral institutions, such as the Security Council. "It is reform or rupture," he said at the 78th UNGA session where world leaders gathered in the backdrop of global challenges and rising geopolitical tensions.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is high time to renew multilateral institutions based on 21st-century economic and political realities – rooted in equity, solidarity, and universality and anchored in the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law. That means reforming the Security Council in line with the world of today. &nbsp;It means redesigning the international financial architecture so that it becomes truly universal and serves as a global safety net for developing countries in trouble," Guterres said during his speech.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>He further said that he has "no illusions" and that he knows that reforms are "a question of power".</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/naked-aggression-biden-hits-hard-at-russia-for-prolonged-war-in-ukraine-637627">'Naked aggression': In UN speech, Biden hits hard at Russia for prolonged war in Ukraine</a></p>

<p>"I know there are many competing interests and agendas. But the alternative to reform is not the status quo. The alternative to reform is further fragmentation," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine war, food security</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>During his address, Guterres also tackled other global issues facing the world at large. It ranged from the climate crisis, the war in Ukraine, food security, and more.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-republicans-to-hold-first-impeachment-hearing-against-president-biden-next-week-637624">US House Republicans to hold first impeachment hearing against President Biden next week</a></p>

<p>"We confront a host of existential threats – from the climate crisis to disruptive technologies – and we do so at a time of chaotic transition. For much of the Cold War, international relations were largely seen through the prism of two superpowers. Then came a short period of unipolarity. Now we are rapidly moving towards a multipolar world. This is, in many ways, positive. &nbsp;It brings new opportunities for justice and balance in international relations," the UN chief said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/use-of-drones-submarines-by-narco-gangs-in-ecuador-a-worrying-trend-637645">Use of drones &amp; submarines by Narco-gangs in Ecuador a worrying trend</a></p>

<p>Speaking about the war in Ukraine, Guterres said, "The world badly needs Ukrainian food and Russian food and fertilizers to stabilise markets and guarantee food security and I will not give up on my efforts to make it happen."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Guterres also called for forging peace and doing away with the differences. "Our world is becoming unhinged &amp; we seem incapable of coming together to respond. But the @UN was created precisely for moments like this – moments of maximum danger &amp; minimum agreement. What we need is determination to heal divisions &amp; forge peace," he said.&nbsp;</p>

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UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for reforms in multilateral institutions, such as the Security Council. "It is reform or rupture," he said at the 78th UNGA session where world leaders gathered in the backdrop of global challenges and rising geopolitical tensions.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for reforms in multilateral institutions, such as the Security Council. "It is reform or rupture," he said at the 78th UNGA session where world leaders gathered in the backdrop of global challenges and rising geopolitical tensions. "It is high time to renew multilateral institutions based on 21st-century economic and political realities – rooted in equity, solidarity, and universality and anchored in the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law. That means reforming the Security Council in line with the world of today. It means redesigning the international financial architecture so that it becomes truly universal and serves as a global safety net for developing countries in trouble," Guterres said during his speech. He further said that he has "no illusions" and that he knows that reforms are "a question of power". Also Read | 'Naked aggression': In UN speech, Biden hits hard at Russia for prolonged war in Ukraine "I know there are many competing interests and agendas. But the alternative to reform is not the status quo. The alternative to reform is further fragmentation," he added. Ukraine war, food security During his address, Guterres also tackled other global issues facing the world at large. It ranged from the climate crisis, the war in Ukraine, food security, and more. Also Read | US House Republicans to hold first impeachment hearing against President Biden next week "We confront a host of existential threats – from the climate crisis to disruptive technologies – and we do so at a time of chaotic transition. For much of the Cold War, international relations were largely seen through the prism of two superpowers. Then came a short period of unipolarity. Now we are rapidly moving towards a multipolar world. This is, in many ways, positive. It brings new opportunities for justice and balance in international relations," the UN chief said. Watch | Use of drones & submarines by Narco-gangs in Ecuador a worrying trend Speaking about the war in Ukraine, Guterres said, "The world badly needs Ukrainian food and Russian food and fertilizers to stabilise markets and guarantee food security and I will not give up on my efforts to make it happen." Guterres also called for forging peace and doing away with the differences. "Our world is becoming unhinged & we seem incapable of coming together to respond. But the @UN was created precisely for moments like this – moments of maximum danger & minimum agreement. What we need is determination to heal divisions & forge peace," he said. 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. ×

78th UNGA session: Antonio Guterres calls for 'reforming' Security Council

<p>United Nations chief Antonio Guterres has reiterated his call for the deployment of a multinational force in Haiti.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a letter to the UN Security Council, Secretary-General Guterres wrote, "I continue to appeal to Member States to deploy a non-United Nations multinational force, composed of police special forces and military support units."</p>

<h2><strong>Deployment of forces</strong></h2>

<p>For months, Guterres and Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry have been pleading for forces to be deployed to the crisis-hit Caribbean country.</p>

<p>Haiti, as per AFP, is battling compounding humanitarian, political and security crises that have overwhelmed both its 'weak' government and security forces.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/funding-cuts-force-un-to-pull-the-plug-on-feeding-100000-haitians-this-month-616911">Funding cuts force UN to pull the plug on feeding 100,000 Haitians this month</a></strong></p>

<p>However, despite their attempts, many countries have been hesitant to step in. This, as per the news agency, stems from the fear of getting stuck in a bloody quagmire.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Kenya steps in</strong></h2>

<p>In July, Kenya announced its willingness to head a multinational police intervention to train and assist the police forces in Haiti. Nairobi also offered help, pledging 1,000 officers.</p>

<p>In his letter, Guterres said that a deployment is "urgently needed" and welcomed Kenya's offer. He also acknowledged that the Kenyan mission has received backing from The Bahamas and Jamaica. Additionally, he made mention of "announcements made by Antigua and Barbuda to consider contributing."</p>

<p>"Addressing the security situation in Haiti requires a range of coercive law enforcement measures, including active use of force in targeted police operations against heavily armed gangs," he added in the letter.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-nurse-and-her-child-kidnapped-in-haiti-state-department-monitoring-situation-620741">US nurse and her child kidnapped in Haiti, State Department monitoring situation</a></strong></p>

<p>For the mission to turn into reality, a green light from the Security Council is necessary. Nevertheless, the United States — currently presiding over the Council's rotating presidency — has pledged resources to support the deployment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, US and the Ecuador have promised to push for the deployment's authorisation.</p>

<p>"We're hopeful that other countries will also step up with the appropriate personnel and facilities, and that we will have the Security Council also move forward on the recommendations that the secretary-general has now given," said Farhan Haq, Guterres' spokesperson.</p>

<h2><strong>Situation in Haiti</strong></h2>

<p>For the last seven years,&nbsp;since 2016,&nbsp;elections haven't been held in the poor Caribbean nation. Almost 80 per cent of the country's capital, Port-au-Prince, is under the control of gangs which regularly subject it to violent crimes.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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United Nations chief Antonio Guterres has reiterated his call for the deployment of a multinational force in Haiti. In a letter to the UN Security Council, Secretary-General Guterres wrote, "I continue to appeal to Member States to deploy a non-United Nations multinational force, composed of police special forces and military support units.

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres has reiterated his call for the deployment of a multinational force in Haiti. In a letter to the UN Security Council, Secretary-General Guterres wrote, "I continue to appeal to Member States to deploy a non-United Nations multinational force, composed of police special forces and military support units." Deployment of forces For months, Guterres and Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry have been pleading for forces to be deployed to the crisis-hit Caribbean country. Haiti, as per AFP, is battling compounding humanitarian, political and security crises that have overwhelmed both its 'weak' government and security forces. Also read | Funding cuts force UN to pull the plug on feeding 100,000 Haitians this month However, despite their attempts, many countries have been hesitant to step in. This, as per the news agency, stems from the fear of getting stuck in a bloody quagmire. Kenya steps in In July, Kenya announced its willingness to head a multinational police intervention to train and assist the police forces in Haiti. Nairobi also offered help, pledging 1,000 officers. In his letter, Guterres said that a deployment is "urgently needed" and welcomed Kenya's offer. He also acknowledged that the Kenyan mission has received backing from The Bahamas and Jamaica. Additionally, he made mention of "announcements made by Antigua and Barbuda to consider contributing." "Addressing the security situation in Haiti requires a range of coercive law enforcement measures, including active use of force in targeted police operations against heavily armed gangs," he added in the letter. Also read | US nurse and her child kidnapped in Haiti, State Department monitoring situation For the mission to turn into reality, a green light from the Security Council is necessary. Nevertheless, the United States — currently presiding over the Council's rotating presidency — has pledged resources to support the deployment. Additionally, US and the Ecuador have promised to push for the deployment's authorisation. "We're hopeful that other countries will also step up with the appropriate personnel and facilities, and that we will have the Security Council also move forward on the recommendations that the secretary-general has now given," said Farhan Haq, Guterres' spokesperson. Situation in Haiti For the last seven years, since 2016, elections haven't been held in the poor Caribbean nation. Almost 80 per cent of the country's capital, Port-au-Prince, is under the control of gangs which regularly subject it to violent crimes. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Deployment of multinational force urgently needed in crisis-hit Haiti: UN chief

<p>The military leaders in Niger who came to power last month after a coup, in their latest display of resistance against international pressure, formed a new government, as per a decree read out on national television on Thursday (August 10).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 21-member administration will be led by Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine with new military governing council's generals heading the defence and interior ministries.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-sanctions-is-niger-facing-following-the-july-26-coup-623756">Explained: What are the sanctions Niger is facing following the July 26 coup?</a></p>

<h2><strong>West African bloc to attend key summit on Niger coup</strong></h2>

<p>West African bloc ECOWAS leaders will be meeting for an emergency summit on the coup in Niger on Thursday (August 10), after the military chiefs of the country defied an ultimatum to restore the elected president.</p>

<p>Two weeks after the coup which removed Mohamed Bazoum from his position, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) stated that it is looking at a diplomatic solution but the use of force has not been ruled out by them to resolve the crisis.</p>

<p>Important decisions are likely to be made in the gathering in Nigeria's capital Abuja, &nbsp;as per the statement issued by the 15-nation organisation on Tuesday.</p>

<p>The bloc, which is struggling to stem a cascade of coups among its members, had given the troops an ultimatum to either reinstate Bazoum till last Sunday or face the potential use of force.</p>

<p>However, the coup leaders remained defiant and no action was taken against them.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Niger coup: West is supporting ECOWAS. Will Russia make a move in Niger like it did in Mali?</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>UN chief expresses concern over 'deplorable' detention conditions of Niger's president</strong></h2>

<p>UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his concerns over reports of Niger President Mohamed Bazoum and his family's &nbsp;"deplorable living conditions" in arbitrary detention and called for his release, said a UN spokesperson in a statement on Wednesday (August 9).</p>

<p>Secretary-General Antonio Guterres criticised "the deplorable living conditions that President Bazoum and his family are reported to be living under," as per a UN statement.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, CNN reported that Bazoum was kept isolated and was forced to consume dry rice and pasta by the rebels after he was overthrown by them in a coup late last month.</p>

<p>In a series of text messages which were sent to a friend by Bazoum, the president said he had been "deprived of all human contact since Friday", with no one supplying him medicine or food, reported the network.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Guterres "reiterates his concern over the health and safety of the President and his family and once again calls for his immediate, unconditional release and his reinstatement as Head of State," said the UN chief's spokesman in a statement.</p>

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The military leaders in Niger who came to power last month after a coup, in their latest display of resistance against international pressure, formed a new government, as per a decree read out on national television on Thursday (August 10).

The military leaders in Niger who came to power last month after a coup, in their latest display of resistance against international pressure, formed a new government, as per a decree read out on national television on Thursday (August 10). The 21-member administration will be led by Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine with new military governing council's generals heading the defence and interior ministries. ALSO READ | Explained: What are the sanctions Niger is facing following the July 26 coup? West African bloc to attend key summit on Niger coup West African bloc ECOWAS leaders will be meeting for an emergency summit on the coup in Niger on Thursday (August 10), after the military chiefs of the country defied an ultimatum to restore the elected president. Two weeks after the coup which removed Mohamed Bazoum from his position, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) stated that it is looking at a diplomatic solution but the use of force has not been ruled out by them to resolve the crisis. Important decisions are likely to be made in the gathering in Nigeria's capital Abuja, as per the statement issued by the 15-nation organisation on Tuesday. The bloc, which is struggling to stem a cascade of coups among its members, had given the troops an ultimatum to either reinstate Bazoum till last Sunday or face the potential use of force. However, the coup leaders remained defiant and no action was taken against them. WATCH | Niger coup: West is supporting ECOWAS. Will Russia make a move in Niger like it did in Mali? UN chief expresses concern over 'deplorable' detention conditions of Niger's president UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his concerns over reports of Niger President Mohamed Bazoum and his family's "deplorable living conditions" in arbitrary detention and called for his release, said a UN spokesperson in a statement on Wednesday (August 9). Secretary-General Antonio Guterres criticised "the deplorable living conditions that President Bazoum and his family are reported to be living under," as per a UN statement. On Wednesday, CNN reported that Bazoum was kept isolated and was forced to consume dry rice and pasta by the rebels after he was overthrown by them in a coup late last month. In a series of text messages which were sent to a friend by Bazoum, the president said he had been "deprived of all human contact since Friday", with no one supplying him medicine or food, reported the network. Guterres "reiterates his concern over the health and safety of the President and his family and once again calls for his immediate, unconditional release and his reinstatement as Head of State," said the UN chief's spokesman in a statement. 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

Niger coup military leaders form new government by decree

The world is suffering from unprecedentedly high temperatures. Tourists are fleeing the raging wildfires in Greece. Now the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has begun warning about the terrible conditions of our planet Earth. To know more watch this interview with former Assistant Executive Director of the UN Environment Program, Svein Tveitdal.

UN Chief: Climate change is here and it is terrifying

The world is suffering from unprecedentedly high temperatures. Tourists are fleeing the raging wildfires in Greece. Now the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has begun warning about the terrible conditions of our planet Earth. Take a look.

UN Chief pleads for immediate radical action on climate change

<p>After 15 years of hectic negotiations, the United Nations (UN) has finally adopted the world’s first treaty that is legally binding to protect the high seas and preserve marine biodiversity in international waters.</p>

<p>Called the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Treaty (BBNJ), or more widely knowns as the High Seas Treaty,&nbsp; was approved by the 193 UN member states.</p>

<p>The treaty calls for the imposition of rules aimed at protecting the environment and resolving disputes over natural resources, shipping and other matters in waters beyond any country's national jurisdiction.</p>

<p>“You have delivered. And you have done so at a critical time,” UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told the member nations Monday upon the treaty's adoption.</p>

<h2><strong>‘Pumped new life’</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement, Guterres said that the member states have "pumped new life and hope to give the ocean a fighting chance” by approving the text.</p>

<p>The new agreement “is critical to addressing the threats facing the ocean, and to the success of ocean-related goals and targets, including the&nbsp;2030 Agenda, the UN chief said on Monday.</p>

<p>The BBNJ is a landmark agreement and would coincide with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, which came into force three decades ago.</p>

<h2><strong>The UN adopts first treaty to protect high seas</strong></h2>

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<p>The Law of the Sea treaty regulates seas within a country's territorial waters and exclusive economic zones, leaving nearly half the planet's surface and two-thirds of the ocean unregulated — particularly when it comes to protecting biodiversity.</p>

<p>BBNJ is an extension of that treaty as it encompasses the high seas, beyond the exclusive economic zones or national waters of countries.</p>

<p>According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN),&nbsp;these areas account for “almost half of the Earth’s surface”.</p>

<p>They are hardly regulated and also least understood or explored for their biodiversity - only 1 per cent of these areas are under protection, IUCN said.</p>

<h2><strong>What’s </strong>next?</h2>

<p>The next step is that the treaty will be open for signature in New York, the headquarters of the UN, for two years starting September 20, the day following a summit on the UN sustainable development goals.</p>

<p>According to the UN, it will take effect after 60 countries ratify the agreement.</p>

<p>The pact is a key plank in efforts to put 30 per cent of the world's land and sea under environmental protection by 2030, a goal set in December.</p>

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After 15 years of hectic negotiations, the United Nations (UN) has finally adopted the world’s first treaty that is legally binding to protect the high seas and preserve marine biodiversity in international waters.

After 15 years of hectic negotiations, the United Nations (UN) has finally adopted the world’s first treaty that is legally binding to protect the high seas and preserve marine biodiversity in international waters. Called the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Treaty (BBNJ), or more widely knowns as the High Seas Treaty, was approved by the 193 UN member states. The treaty calls for the imposition of rules aimed at protecting the environment and resolving disputes over natural resources, shipping and other matters in waters beyond any country's national jurisdiction. “You have delivered. And you have done so at a critical time,” UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told the member nations Monday upon the treaty's adoption. ‘Pumped new life’ In a statement, Guterres said that the member states have "pumped new life and hope to give the ocean a fighting chance” by approving the text. The new agreement “is critical to addressing the threats facing the ocean, and to the success of ocean-related goals and targets, including the 2030 Agenda, the UN chief said on Monday. The BBNJ is a landmark agreement and would coincide with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, which came into force three decades ago. The UN adopts first treaty to protect high seas The Law of the Sea treaty regulates seas within a country's territorial waters and exclusive economic zones, leaving nearly half the planet's surface and two-thirds of the ocean unregulated — particularly when it comes to protecting biodiversity. BBNJ is an extension of that treaty as it encompasses the high seas, beyond the exclusive economic zones or national waters of countries. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), these areas account for “almost half of the Earth’s surface”. They are hardly regulated and also least understood or explored for their biodiversity - only 1 per cent of these areas are under protection, IUCN said. What’s next? The next step is that the treaty will be open for signature in New York, the headquarters of the UN, for two years starting September 20, the day following a summit on the UN sustainable development goals. According to the UN, it will take effect after 60 countries ratify the agreement. The pact is a key plank in efforts to put 30 per cent of the world's land and sea under environmental protection by 2030, a goal set in December. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UN adopts world’s first treaty on high seas, Antonio Guterres lauds member states

<p>The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday (May 21) amid the ongoing Group of Seven (G7) summit in Japan’s Hiroshima called for reform of the UN Security Council to reflect the realities of the present world.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>UN chief urges reform of Security Council, Bretton Woods</strong></h2>

<p>Addressing a press conference in Japan, Guterres said that it was time to reform both the Security Council and Bretton Woods to align with the “realities of today's world,” adding that both institutions reflected the power relations of 1945 and are in need of an update. He also noted how the global financial architecture had become “outdated, dysfunctional and unfair,” as per Reuters.</p>

<p>This was said in the context of the economic shocks that the world witnessed in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine while the system&nbsp;put in place has failed to “fulfil its core function as a global safety net,” said the UN chief.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also went on to note how he felt a growing consciousness among developing countries at the G7 summit that not enough steps are being taken to reform these decades-old institutions or “remove the frustrations” of the Global South, reported Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>G7 and the Global South</strong></h2>

<p>In its World Economic Outlook published earlier this year, the International Monetary Fund said that India and China will account for nearly 50 per cent of the world’s growth in 2023. On the other hand, it is also worth noting that the G7 group of wealthy countries’ economic clout has also shrunk in the past three decades or so.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the IMF, the seven major economies account for nearly 30 per cent of the global GDP in 2023, as opposed to 50.7 per cent in 1980, reported Reuters. “The G7 members were able to discuss with some of the most important emerging economies in the world,” said Guterres.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the G7 presidency holder, Japan also invited leaders from the so-called Global South to Hiroshima for talks including Indian PM Narendra Modi, Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Indonesian President Joko Widodo.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>UN, Security Council will remain just ‘talk shop’ without reform: PM Modi</strong></h2>

<p>During his address at a G7 session in Hiroshima, the Indian PM said that the UN and the Security Council will remain just a “talk shop” if they do not reflect the realities of the present world and called for reform of the global body, reported news agency PTI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It is a matter of analysis, why do we have to talk about peace and stability in different forums? Why is the UN, which was started with the idea of establishing peace, not successful in preventing conflicts today?” the Indian PM questioned.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also went on to ask why even the definition of terrorism has not been accepted in the UN, adding that “If one introspects, one thing is clear - The institutions created in the last century are not in line with the system of the twenty-first century,” as quoted by PTI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“They do not reflect the realities of the present. That is why it is necessary that reforms should be implemented in big institutions like the UN,” said the Indian PM, adding that these institutions also need to become the voice of the Global South. “Otherwise, we will only keep talking about ending the conflicts. The UN and the Security Council will remain just a talk shop,” said PM Modi, at a G7 session.&nbsp;</p>

<p>New Delhi&nbsp;is eyeing a permanent seat on the UNSC, which is currently held by five countries – Russia, the United Kingdom, China, France and the United States, who wield the power to veto any substantive resolution.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday (May 21) amid the ongoing Group of Seven (G7) summit in Japan’s Hiroshima called for reform of the UN Security Council to reflect the realities of the present world.

The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday (May 21) amid the ongoing Group of Seven (G7) summit in Japan’s Hiroshima called for reform of the UN Security Council to reflect the realities of the present world. UN chief urges reform of Security Council, Bretton Woods Addressing a press conference in Japan, Guterres said that it was time to reform both the Security Council and Bretton Woods to align with the “realities of today's world,” adding that both institutions reflected the power relations of 1945 and are in need of an update. He also noted how the global financial architecture had become “outdated, dysfunctional and unfair,” as per Reuters. This was said in the context of the economic shocks that the world witnessed in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine while the system put in place has failed to “fulfil its core function as a global safety net,” said the UN chief. He also went on to note how he felt a growing consciousness among developing countries at the G7 summit that not enough steps are being taken to reform these decades-old institutions or “remove the frustrations” of the Global South, reported Reuters. G7 and the Global South In its World Economic Outlook published earlier this year, the International Monetary Fund said that India and China will account for nearly 50 per cent of the world’s growth in 2023. On the other hand, it is also worth noting that the G7 group of wealthy countries’ economic clout has also shrunk in the past three decades or so. According to the IMF, the seven major economies account for nearly 30 per cent of the global GDP in 2023, as opposed to 50.7 per cent in 1980, reported Reuters. “The G7 members were able to discuss with some of the most important emerging economies in the world,” said Guterres. As the G7 presidency holder, Japan also invited leaders from the so-called Global South to Hiroshima for talks including Indian PM Narendra Modi, Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Indonesian President Joko Widodo. UN, Security Council will remain just ‘talk shop’ without reform: PM Modi During his address at a G7 session in Hiroshima, the Indian PM said that the UN and the Security Council will remain just a “talk shop” if they do not reflect the realities of the present world and called for reform of the global body, reported news agency PTI. “It is a matter of analysis, why do we have to talk about peace and stability in different forums? Why is the UN, which was started with the idea of establishing peace, not successful in preventing conflicts today?” the Indian PM questioned. He also went on to ask why even the definition of terrorism has not been accepted in the UN, adding that “If one introspects, one thing is clear - The institutions created in the last century are not in line with the system of the twenty-first century,” as quoted by PTI. “They do not reflect the realities of the present. That is why it is necessary that reforms should be implemented in big institutions like the UN,” said the Indian PM, adding that these institutions also need to become the voice of the Global South. “Otherwise, we will only keep talking about ending the conflicts. The UN and the Security Council will remain just a talk shop,” said PM Modi, at a G7 session. New Delhi is eyeing a permanent seat on the UNSC, which is currently held by five countries – Russia, the United Kingdom, China, France and the United States, who wield the power to veto any substantive resolution. (With inputs from agencies) 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 chief, Indian PM Modi call for reform of Security Council to reflect ‘realities’ of today

<p>United Nations (UN) chief Antonio Guterres will be holding talks with international envoys at an unknown location in Doha on Monday in a bid to explore ways to influence Taliban rulers in Afghanistan. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Afghanistan is being considered as being in the biggest humanitarian crisis in the world by the United Nations and Guterres' dilemma on appropriate actions has further increased by the banning of girls from schools and women from working in NGOs as well as UN agencies by the Taliban administration. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The government of Taliban, which came back to power in August, 2021, will not attend the talks which will include representatives from around 25 nations and international organisations, as per the diplomats. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghan-women-protest-in-kabul-urge-other-countries-not-to-recognise-taliban-regime-587362">Afghan women protest in Kabul, urge other countries not to recognise Taliban regime</a></p>

<p>Ahead of the meeting, a group of women in Kabul on Saturday protested against any international recognition of the Taliban government. However, the Western powers and the UN remain adamant that this issue will not be discussed.</p>

<p>"Any kind of recognition of the Taliban is completely off the table," US State Department spokesman Vedant Patel stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UN secretary-general will be giving an update on a review of the critical relief operation of the world body in Afghanistan which was ordered in April after Afghan women were stopped by the authorities from working with the UN agencies, said the diplomats.</p>

<p>UN expert for the International Crisis Group Richard Gowan said that the United Nations is "in a trap over Afghanistan".</p>

<p>"Guterres has to untangle a very complicated knot. He needs to find a way to keep aid flowing into Afghanistan, but the Taliban ban on women is a huge blow to the UN's ability to operate in the country," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He stated that the international community wishes that the UN's critical presence is maintained.</p>

<p>"There are lots of differences among Security Council members over Afghanistan. But everyone, including Russia and China, agrees it is better to have the UN in Kabul than not,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Taliban kill I.S. leader behind airport bombing</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taliban-kill-is-leader-behind-airport-bombing-586166/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>A few indications has been given by the United Nations about what proposals could be made during the meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Friday, UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said that the aim "is to reinvigorate international engagement around common objectives for a durable way forward on Afghanistan".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UN also wants "unity or commonality of message" on women's and human rights, drug trafficking and countering terrorism.</p>

<p>"Recognition is not an issue," insisted Dujarric. The UN General Assembly will be deciding if the Taliban government takes up the UN seat in Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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United Nations (UN) chief Antonio Guterres will be holding talks with international envoys at an unknown location in Doha on Monday in a bid to explore ways to influence Taliban rulers in Afghanistan.

United Nations (UN) chief Antonio Guterres will be holding talks with international envoys at an unknown location in Doha on Monday in a bid to explore ways to influence Taliban rulers in Afghanistan. Afghanistan is being considered as being in the biggest humanitarian crisis in the world by the United Nations and Guterres' dilemma on appropriate actions has further increased by the banning of girls from schools and women from working in NGOs as well as UN agencies by the Taliban administration. The government of Taliban, which came back to power in August, 2021, will not attend the talks which will include representatives from around 25 nations and international organisations, as per the diplomats. ALSO READ | Afghan women protest in Kabul, urge other countries not to recognise Taliban regime Ahead of the meeting, a group of women in Kabul on Saturday protested against any international recognition of the Taliban government. However, the Western powers and the UN remain adamant that this issue will not be discussed. "Any kind of recognition of the Taliban is completely off the table," US State Department spokesman Vedant Patel stated. The UN secretary-general will be giving an update on a review of the critical relief operation of the world body in Afghanistan which was ordered in April after Afghan women were stopped by the authorities from working with the UN agencies, said the diplomats. UN expert for the International Crisis Group Richard Gowan said that the United Nations is "in a trap over Afghanistan". "Guterres has to untangle a very complicated knot. He needs to find a way to keep aid flowing into Afghanistan, but the Taliban ban on women is a huge blow to the UN's ability to operate in the country," he added. He stated that the international community wishes that the UN's critical presence is maintained. "There are lots of differences among Security Council members over Afghanistan. But everyone, including Russia and China, agrees it is better to have the UN in Kabul than not,” he added. WATCH | Taliban kill I.S. leader behind airport bombing A few indications has been given by the United Nations about what proposals could be made during the meeting. On Friday, UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said that the aim "is to reinvigorate international engagement around common objectives for a durable way forward on Afghanistan". The UN also wants "unity or commonality of message" on women's and human rights, drug trafficking and countering terrorism. "Recognition is not an issue," insisted Dujarric. The UN General Assembly will be deciding if the Taliban government takes up the UN seat in Afghanistan. (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 chief Guterres, envoys to hold key discussion on Afghanistan crisis

Just ahead of International Women's Day. UN chief, Antonio Guterres has made a stunning claim. He says gender equality is still 300 years away. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: UN chief warns gender equality still 300 years away

On International Women's Day we ask how far we are from gender equality and what is the status of women in today's time. With the women in Afghanistan being relegated to second class citizens to the anti-hijab protests in Iran. We assess gender empowerment and whether women's rights have taken a back seat.

UN Chief warns gender equality will take 300 years to achieve

<p>Global progress on women's rights is "won over decades (is) vanishing before our eyes" said United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Monday. He warned that gender equality remains a distant goal. Speaking during a speech ahead of International Women's Day on March 8, he said, "Gender equality is growing more distant. On the current track, UN Women puts it 300 years away."</p>

<p>Ticking off a litany of abuses like maternal mortality, child marriage, girls being denied education and more, that women face, he said that "women's rights are being abused, threatened, and violated around the world."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mentioning the dire conditions in Afghanistan, he remarked, "women and girls have been erased from public life."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/140-years-and-counting-once-again-no-women-nominations-for-bank-of-japans-top-spots-561585">140 years and counting; Once again, no women nominations for Bank of Japan's top spots</a></strong></p>

<p>While he did not name other countries, Guterres stressed that "in many places, women's sexual and reproductive rights are being rolled back (and) in some countries, girls going to school risk kidnapping and assault."</p>

<p>"The patriarchy is fighting back. But so are we," remarked Guterres, adding "the United Nations stands with women and girls everywhere."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/gender-inequality-has-cost-world-usd-70-trillion-since-1990-report-finds-368469" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/gender-inequality-has-cost-world-usd-70-trillion-since-1990-report-finds-368469&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiMqs2wrMn9AhVF8TgGHSPADNk4FBAWegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3AzeeP8cE0cx3z5Q0j1nzT" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gender-inequality-has-cost-world-usd-70-trillion-since-1990-report-finds-368469" target="_blank">Gender inequality&nbsp;has cost world USD 70 trillion since 1990</a></strong></p>

<p>Guterres called for "collective action" worldwide by governments, civil society and the private sector. The UN chief said they must invest more in "bridging the digital gender divide" and strive to provide gender-responsive education and improve skills training.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Global progress on women's rights is "won over decades (is) vanishing before our eyes" said United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Monday. He warned that gender equality remains a distant goal.

Global progress on women's rights is "won over decades (is) vanishing before our eyes" said United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Monday. He warned that gender equality remains a distant goal. Speaking during a speech ahead of International Women's Day on March 8, he said, "Gender equality is growing more distant. On the current track, UN Women puts it 300 years away." Ticking off a litany of abuses like maternal mortality, child marriage, girls being denied education and more, that women face, he said that "women's rights are being abused, threatened, and violated around the world." Mentioning the dire conditions in Afghanistan, he remarked, "women and girls have been erased from public life." Also read | 140 years and counting; Once again, no women nominations for Bank of Japan's top spots While he did not name other countries, Guterres stressed that "in many places, women's sexual and reproductive rights are being rolled back (and) in some countries, girls going to school risk kidnapping and assault." "The patriarchy is fighting back. But so are we," remarked Guterres, adding "the United Nations stands with women and girls everywhere." Also read | Gender inequality has cost world USD 70 trillion since 1990 Guterres called for "collective action" worldwide by governments, civil society and the private sector. The UN chief said they must invest more in "bridging the digital gender divide" and strive to provide gender-responsive education and improve skills training. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

'Patriarchy is fighting back...so are we': Gender equality is still 300 years away, says UN

United Nations Chief Antonio Guterres has slammed richer nations for climate catastrophes. Speaking at a summit in Doha for the least-developed countries, Guterres accused big economies for record-high greenhouse gas emissions leading to the disparity between fossil fuels giants with massive profits.

UN chief slams richer nations for climate change, says 'they continue to heat up our planet'