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;

"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;

He further said that he has "no illusions" and that he knows that reforms are "a question of power".

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>

"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;

<h2>Ukraine war, food security&nbsp;</h2>

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;

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>

"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;

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>

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;

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;

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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

The United States has been trying to rally countries in Ukraine who supported the ongoing United Nations General Assembly while calling out Russia at the forum. Watch the video to know more.

Zelensky at UN General Assembly: We must be united against war crimes

U.S. President Joe Biden appealed to world leaders at the U.N. General Assembly on Tuesday (September 19) to stand with Ukraine against Russian invaders, hoping Republicans in Congress will also take notice.

Biden offers support for Ukraine, warns Russia against brutalizing Ukraine

Thousands of children are feared to be dying in Sudan as violence, disease and severe malnutrition rip through the conflict-torn country, the United Nations said Tuesday.

The UN refugee agency said more than 1,200 children in refugee camps had died since May due in part to a measles outbreak.

Thousands more were dying due to malnutrition and lack of health care, the UN's children's agency UNICEF said. &nbsp;

"UNICEF fears Sudan's youngest citizens are entering a period of unprecedented mortality," spokesman James Elder told reporters in Geneva. "We are really on the precipice."&nbsp;

Sudan is being ripped apart by a violent conflict that erupted on April 15 between army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his former deputy Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The violence has killed at least 7,500 people across the country, according to a conservative estimate from the Armed Conflict Location &amp; Event Data Project.

The war has also decimated already fragile infrastructure, shuttered 80 per cent of the country's hospitals, displaced millions and plunged millions into acute hunger.

<h2>- Newborns risk dying -</h2>

The crisis is taking a particularly harsh toll on Sudan's youngest residents.

The fighting has killed 435 children, according to official casualty numbers, but Elder said the true number of deaths was likely far higher.

UNICEF fears that "many thousands of children...will die in the next few months," he said.

"We fear many thousands died in the last few months. And as long as this crisis continues, many, many thousands of children will continue to die".

"It's hard to quite understand what the world is waiting for," he said.

Among other things, he said the "cruel disregard for civilians and the relentless attacks on health and nutrition services" meant that many thousands of newborns risked dying by the end of the year.

The World Health Organization has verified 56 attacks on health care facilities and personnel since the start of the conflict, resulting in at least 11 deaths and 38 injuries.

Elder pointed out that 333,000 children were due to be born in the country between October and December, at a time when nutrition services had been "devastated".

"Every month, 55,000 children require treatment for the most lethal form of malnutrition and yet in Khartoum less than one in 50 nutrition centres is functional. In West Darfur it's one in 10," he said.

<h2>- Measles, cholera - 
&nbsp;</h2>

The UN refugee agency said its teams in Sudan's White Nile state had determined that between May 15 and September 14, more than 1,200 children under the age of five had died across nine refugee camps.

Those camps were hosting mainly refugees from South Sudan and Ethiopia, Allen Maina, UNHCR chief of public health told reporters.

Another 3,100 suspected cases of measles were also reported in the same period, as well as more than 500 suspected cases of cholera in other parts of the country, along with outbreaks of dengue and malaria, the agency said.

"The world has the means and the money to prevent every one of these deaths from measles or malnutrition," UNHCR chief Filippo Grandi said in a statement.

"We can prevent more deaths, but need money for the response, access to those in need, and above all, an end to the fighting," he said.

UNICEF also said it sorely lacked funds, noting that it had received just a quarter of the $838 million it had requested to help 10 million children in Sudan.

"Such a funding gap will mean lives lost," Elder said. 
 
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Thousands of children are feared to be dying in Sudan as violence, disease and severe malnutrition rip through the conflict-torn country, the United Nations said Tuesday.

Thousands of children are feared to be dying in Sudan as violence, disease and severe malnutrition rip through the conflict-torn country, the United Nations said Tuesday. The UN refugee agency said more than 1,200 children in refugee camps had died since May due in part to a measles outbreak. Thousands more were dying due to malnutrition and lack of health care, the UN's children's agency UNICEF said. "UNICEF fears Sudan's youngest citizens are entering a period of unprecedented mortality," spokesman James Elder told reporters in Geneva. "We are really on the precipice." Sudan is being ripped apart by a violent conflict that erupted on April 15 between army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his former deputy Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The violence has killed at least 7,500 people across the country, according to a conservative estimate from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project. The war has also decimated already fragile infrastructure, shuttered 80 per cent of the country's hospitals, displaced millions and plunged millions into acute hunger. - Newborns risk dying - The crisis is taking a particularly harsh toll on Sudan's youngest residents. The fighting has killed 435 children, according to official casualty numbers, but Elder said the true number of deaths was likely far higher. UNICEF fears that "many thousands of children...will die in the next few months," he said. "We fear many thousands died in the last few months. And as long as this crisis continues, many, many thousands of children will continue to die". "It's hard to quite understand what the world is waiting for," he said. Among other things, he said the "cruel disregard for civilians and the relentless attacks on health and nutrition services" meant that many thousands of newborns risked dying by the end of the year. The World Health Organization has verified 56 attacks on health care facilities and personnel since the start of the conflict, resulting in at least 11 deaths and 38 injuries. Elder pointed out that 333,000 children were due to be born in the country between October and December, at a time when nutrition services had been "devastated". "Every month, 55,000 children require treatment for the most lethal form of malnutrition and yet in Khartoum less than one in 50 nutrition centres is functional. In West Darfur it's one in 10," he said. - Measles, cholera - The UN refugee agency said its teams in Sudan's White Nile state had determined that between May 15 and September 14, more than 1,200 children under the age of five had died across nine refugee camps. Those camps were hosting mainly refugees from South Sudan and Ethiopia, Allen Maina, UNHCR chief of public health told reporters. Another 3,100 suspected cases of measles were also reported in the same period, as well as more than 500 suspected cases of cholera in other parts of the country, along with outbreaks of dengue and malaria, the agency said. "The world has the means and the money to prevent every one of these deaths from measles or malnutrition," UNHCR chief Filippo Grandi said in a statement. "We can prevent more deaths, but need money for the response, access to those in need, and above all, an end to the fighting," he said. UNICEF also said it sorely lacked funds, noting that it had received just a quarter of the $838 million it had requested to help 10 million children in Sudan. "Such a funding gap will mean lives lost," Elder 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.

Thousands of children feared to be dying in Sudan: UN

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals need a global rescue plan. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned at the opening of the UNGA in New York right. On the first day of the UNGA event on Monday world leaders adopted a landmark political declaration to accelerate action on implementing the 17 sustainable development goals that have regressed below the 2015 Baseline when they were first announced the high.

Only 1 of the 5 key world leaders attend the UNGA event

NYC is hosting a high-level UNGA meeting at the UN headquarters. The city's officials are clearing out homeless pavement dwellers from the area. Watch this video for all details.

NYC relocates homeless pavement dwellers from the area around the UN headquarters for UNGA Meet 2023

Russia&nbsp;on Monday (September 18) called on the United Nations' highest court in The Hague, Netherlands, to toss out what it has described as a “hopelessly flawed” case that challenges Moscow’s claim that “genocide” in eastern Ukraine was a pretext for its invasion, last year.&nbsp;

The recent request was made during a hearing at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) or the World Court, where Ukraine filed a lawsuit against Russia&nbsp;days after the war began on February 24, 2022.&nbsp;

The suit brought by Ukraine has “emphatically” denied Moscow’s claim that pro-Russian people in eastern Ukraine were being “subjected to bullying and genocide by the Kyiv regime.”&nbsp;

<h2>‘Hopelessly flawed’: Russia about Ukraine’s case</h2>

Russian representative, Gennady Kuzmin, said Ukraine’s case accusing Russia of abusing the UN Genocide Convention as a reason to launch its war “couldn’t be further from the truth”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-united-nations-top-court-ukraine-registers-genocide-case-against-russia-457279">At United Nations' top court, Ukraine registers genocide case against Russia</a>

This comes as Kyiv has argued that Russia is abusing international law by saying the invasion was justified to prevent an alleged genocide in eastern Ukraine considering that the treaty does not allow an invasion to stop an alleged genocide.

Kuzmin also went on to say how Ukraine’s legal position is “hopelessly flawed” and “at odds with the longstanding jurisprudence” of the court, urging the ICJ to throw out the case.&nbsp;

“Ukraine insists no genocide has occurred,” said Kuzmin. He added, “That alone should be enough to reject the case. Because according to the court’s jurisprudence, if there was no genocide, there cannot be a violation of the Genocide Convention.”

Russia, reiterating its accusation of Ukraine committing genocide, on Monday said the “Russophobic and neo-Nazi regime in Kyiv” was using the 1948 UN Genocide Convention to which both countries are a party, as a pretext to “drag” a case before the court.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/terrorist-state-ukraine-slams-russia-at-international-court-of-justice-hearing-601468">‘Terrorist state’: Ukraine slams Russia at International Court of Justice hearing</a>

<h2>About the case</h2>

A report by Reuters citing experts said that even if the ruling is in Kyiv’s favour, it would not stop the war but could impact future reparations payments.&nbsp;

In March 2022, the ICJ sided with Ukraine and ordered Russia to “immediately suspend” its military action in Ukraine but it was just a “preliminary ruling”. Not to mention the debate about the court’s competence to rule on the content of the matter since while their rulings are binding, there is no “police force” to enforce them.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-to-face-off-at-international-court-of-justice-over-genocide-claims-636923">Russia, Ukraine to face off at International Court of Justice over genocide claims</a>

Therefore the hearings, which are set to run until September 27, will not delve into the merits of the case but rather focus on legal arguments about its jurisdiction. The ICJ will also hear from 32 other states, all supporting Ukraine’s argument saying that the court has jurisdiction to move the case forward.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Russia on Monday (September 18) called on the United Nations' highest court in The Hague, Netherlands, to toss out what it has described as a “hopelessly flawed” case that challenges Moscow’s claim that “genocide” in eastern Ukraine was a pretext for its invasion, last year.

Russia on Monday (September 18) called on the United Nations' highest court in The Hague, Netherlands, to toss out what it has described as a “hopelessly flawed” case that challenges Moscow’s claim that “genocide” in eastern Ukraine was a pretext for its invasion, last year. The recent request was made during a hearing at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) or the World Court, where Ukraine filed a lawsuit against Russia days after the war began on February 24, 2022. The suit brought by Ukraine has “emphatically” denied Moscow’s claim that pro-Russian people in eastern Ukraine were being “subjected to bullying and genocide by the Kyiv regime.” ‘Hopelessly flawed’: Russia about Ukraine’s case Russian representative, Gennady Kuzmin, said Ukraine’s case accusing Russia of abusing the UN Genocide Convention as a reason to launch its war “couldn’t be further from the truth”. ALSO READ | At United Nations' top court, Ukraine registers genocide case against Russia This comes as Kyiv has argued that Russia is abusing international law by saying the invasion was justified to prevent an alleged genocide in eastern Ukraine considering that the treaty does not allow an invasion to stop an alleged genocide. Kuzmin also went on to say how Ukraine’s legal position is “hopelessly flawed” and “at odds with the longstanding jurisprudence” of the court, urging the ICJ to throw out the case. “Ukraine insists no genocide has occurred,” said Kuzmin. He added, “That alone should be enough to reject the case. Because according to the court’s jurisprudence, if there was no genocide, there cannot be a violation of the Genocide Convention.” Russia, reiterating its accusation of Ukraine committing genocide, on Monday said the “Russophobic and neo-Nazi regime in Kyiv” was using the 1948 UN Genocide Convention to which both countries are a party, as a pretext to “drag” a case before the court. ALSO READ | ‘Terrorist state’: Ukraine slams Russia at International Court of Justice hearing About the case A report by Reuters citing experts said that even if the ruling is in Kyiv’s favour, it would not stop the war but could impact future reparations payments. In March 2022, the ICJ sided with Ukraine and ordered Russia to “immediately suspend” its military action in Ukraine but it was just a “preliminary ruling”. Not to mention the debate about the court’s competence to rule on the content of the matter since while their rulings are binding, there is no “police force” to enforce them. ALSO READ | Russia, Ukraine to face off at International Court of Justice over genocide claims Therefore the hearings, which are set to run until September 27, will not delve into the merits of the case but rather focus on legal arguments about its jurisdiction. The ICJ will also hear from 32 other states, all supporting Ukraine’s argument saying that the court has jurisdiction to move the case forward. (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.

Russia calls on top UN court to throw out Ukraine’s ‘hopelessly flawed’ genocide case

The 78th session of the UN General Assembly which is the largest yearly gathering of the world leaders and high-ranking diplomats are taking place in New York this week.

UN General Assembly 2023: Zelensky expected to attend UN meet | What to expect at the meet? | WION

The Libyan Red Crescent released a statement on Sunday, denying that last week's catastrophic flooding in Derna claimed the lives of 11,300 people after the United Nations shared the death toll in an update citing the rescue group.

Libya Earthquake: Libyan Red Crescent denies 11,300 death toll cited by UN

Hundreds of women and girls around the world are struggling to raise children fathered by UN peacekeepers.&nbsp;

A recent CNN report has shed light on how UN staffers go to several disaster-hit nations to help the local population, end up making sexual relationships with local women or teen girls, and then simply abandon them before moving to another nation.

As per the CNN report, the UN has so far recorded 463 paternity claims against its employees, of which only 55 have been verified.

<h2>The story of Pauline Philippe</h2>

The CNN report features the story of one such mother, named Pauline Philippe of Haiti. She had two twins in 2012, fathered by a man who was a part of the UN assistance effort and was on temporary assignment in Port-au-Prince.

The assistance efforts were put in place following the deadly earthquake of 2010.

When Philippe told the father about her pregnancy, he responded by saying, “How can that be? From me? I'm going to leave the country, you'll have bastards. You can't raise kids without a father."

<h2>What does the UN say?</h2>

The UN identifies that sexual relationships between its personnel and local population in a disaster-hit country "are based on inherently unequal power dynamics," and "undermine the credibility and integrity of the work of the United Nations."

The UN staff is banned from "fraternization" with the civilian population.

Watch:&nbsp;Zelensky expected to attend UN meet: War to be a big topic of discussion

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In 2017, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres vowed to get the UN’s “own house in order.” He took steps to end the impunity of its staff as well as safeguard the rights of victims. A “trust fund” was set up to support the victims.

The fund holds over $4.8 million but only a fraction of it has been spent in the country —a&nbsp;mere $249,738.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-in-ten-sleeps-hungry-every-night-across-the-world-un-food-chief-636288">Also read:&nbsp;One in 10 people in world sleeps hungry every night: UN food programme chief</a>

"According to the UN policy, there is no direct payment to the victims," the fund's programme officer Yasna Uberoi was quoted as saying by CNN.&nbsp;

"And the Trust Fund project is the same. It's support in terms of training and providing opportunities for livelihoods, so that they can rebuild their lives and become independent," she added.

<h2>Sex scandals continue</h2>

Meanwhile, sex scandals by UN staffers continue unabated.&nbsp;

Only in June this year, at least 60 Tanzanian peacekeepers were sent home from the Central Africa Republic after allegations that they sexually exploited four victims, including two children.

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Hundreds of women and girls around the world are struggling to raise children fathered by UN peacekeepers. A recent CNN report has shed light on how UN staffers go to several disaster-hit nations to help the local population, end up making sexual relationships with local women or teen girls, and then simply abandon them before moving to another nation.

Hundreds of women and girls around the world are struggling to raise children fathered by UN peacekeepers. A recent CNN report has shed light on how UN staffers go to several disaster-hit nations to help the local population, end up making sexual relationships with local women or teen girls, and then simply abandon them before moving to another nation. As per the CNN report, the UN has so far recorded 463 paternity claims against its employees, of which only 55 have been verified. The story of Pauline Philippe The CNN report features the story of one such mother, named Pauline Philippe of Haiti. She had two twins in 2012, fathered by a man who was a part of the UN assistance effort and was on temporary assignment in Port-au-Prince. The assistance efforts were put in place following the deadly earthquake of 2010. When Philippe told the father about her pregnancy, he responded by saying, “How can that be? From me? I'm going to leave the country, you'll have bastards. You can't raise kids without a father." What does the UN say? The UN identifies that sexual relationships between its personnel and local population in a disaster-hit country "are based on inherently unequal power dynamics," and "undermine the credibility and integrity of the work of the United Nations." The UN staff is banned from "fraternization" with the civilian population. Watch: Zelensky expected to attend UN meet: War to be a big topic of discussion × In 2017, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres vowed to get the UN’s “own house in order.” He took steps to end the impunity of its staff as well as safeguard the rights of victims. A “trust fund” was set up to support the victims. The fund holds over $4.8 million but only a fraction of it has been spent in the country —a mere $249,738. Also read: One in 10 people in world sleeps hungry every night: UN food programme chief "According to the UN policy, there is no direct payment to the victims," the fund's programme officer Yasna Uberoi was quoted as saying by CNN. "And the Trust Fund project is the same. It's support in terms of training and providing opportunities for livelihoods, so that they can rebuild their lives and become independent," she added. Sex scandals continue Meanwhile, sex scandals by UN staffers continue unabated. Only in June this year, at least 60 Tanzanian peacekeepers were sent home from the Central Africa Republic after allegations that they sexually exploited four victims, including two children. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Hundreds of women sexually exploited by UN peacekeepers, aid staff struggling to raise children

The gathering takes place at a time when dissatisfaction with the Western-led global order is on the rise due to growing disagreements over the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the battle against climate change, and the international financial system.

G77+China Summit | UN Secretary General: World is failing developing nations | Cuba

The International Atomic Energy Agency is running out of money and agency operations could come to a halt in a month. This has been revealed by the agency's chief himself he says that the UN nuclear Watchdog is facing a financial crisis as many member states including major donors have not paid the money.

Agency Chief: UN Nuclear watchdog running out of money

The 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly this year will discuss many topics including the war in Ukraine. It is likely to be the big topic for the second year in a row. When leaders gather at the UN General Assembly next week, many developing countries are hoping to shine a light on issues important to them including development inflation and climate change.

Zelensky expected to attend UN meet: War to be a big topic of discussion

Iran is reportedly considering implementing harsher laws that could put women behind bars for up to 10 years if they continue to defy the country's mandatory hijab law.&nbsp;

As per the Guardian, under these proposed stricter dress code regulations, even businesses that serve women without a hijab could face shutdowns.

The United Nations have described these measures as "gender apartheid." Here's what you need to know.

<h2>Iran's 'gender apartheid' law</h2>

As per reports, the new draft law contains harsh sentences that are comparable to those imposed on murderers and drug traffickers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-female-journalists-in-iran-sentenced-to-prison-over-conspiracy-and-collusion-631999">Iran: Two female journalists sentenced to prison over 'conspiracy and collusion'</a>

It includes severe penalties, such as more than 60 lashes, heavy fines, and lengthy prison sentences.&nbsp;

Hossein Raeesi, an Iranian human rights lawyer, says, "That's ridiculous to even think about."

The draft law also warns businesses of possible closure and other serious consequences if they serve women with "improper dress code."

<h2>A tightening noose?</h2>

Security and women's rights activists allege that Iranian authorities are investing in smart cameras with facial recognition technology, which can also send alerts when large gatherings occur.&nbsp;

Additionally, security forces are said to be setting up more checkpoints to detain women who do not comply with the dress code, those planning to protest on the anniversary of Mahsa Amini's death.

These stricter regulations, as per the Guardian, coincide with increased patrolling by Iran's so-called "morality police" and further "gender segregation" in various public spaces, including universities, hospitals, parks, and workplaces.&nbsp;

A group of experts appointed by the UN Human Rights Council see this as an apparent attempt at "suppressing women and girls into total submission."

Iranian women agree.&nbsp;

Talking to the Guardian, an Iranian journalist said: "With the new law, the government is telling us women that we will go to prison for up to 10 years if we don't wear a hijab. What next? A death penalty for defying the new hijab law?"

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-shuts-down-water-park-over-violation-of-hijab-law-media-632410">Iran shuts down water park over violation of hijab law: Media</a>

Another Iranian woman feels like the government wants to "erase women from society."

"The Islamic Republic has taken a cue from the Taliban to slowly ban us from public places. They want to erase women from society," said the Tehran-based finance student.

Human Rights Activists in Iran (HRA) reported that the new law is under review by Iran's Guardian Council — a powerful body responsible for vetting legislation and overseeing elections.&nbsp;

If they endorse the bill, it would return to parliament and could come into effect as early as October, said HRA.

This development comes a year after the death of 22-year-old&nbsp;Amini, who died in custody after being detained for allegedly wearing the Islamic headscarf incorrectly. Her death, reportedly due to police beatings, triggered a long wave of protests and significant unrest in Iran.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
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Iran is reportedly considering implementing harsher laws that could put women behind bars for up to 10 years if they continue to defy the country's mandatory hijab law.

Iran is reportedly considering implementing harsher laws that could put women behind bars for up to 10 years if they continue to defy the country's mandatory hijab law. As per the Guardian, under these proposed stricter dress code regulations, even businesses that serve women without a hijab could face shutdowns. The United Nations have described these measures as "gender apartheid." Here's what you need to know. Iran's 'gender apartheid' law As per reports, the new draft law contains harsh sentences that are comparable to those imposed on murderers and drug traffickers. Also read | Iran: Two female journalists sentenced to prison over 'conspiracy and collusion' It includes severe penalties, such as more than 60 lashes, heavy fines, and lengthy prison sentences. Hossein Raeesi, an Iranian human rights lawyer, says, "That's ridiculous to even think about." The draft law also warns businesses of possible closure and other serious consequences if they serve women with "improper dress code." A tightening noose? Security and women's rights activists allege that Iranian authorities are investing in smart cameras with facial recognition technology, which can also send alerts when large gatherings occur. Additionally, security forces are said to be setting up more checkpoints to detain women who do not comply with the dress code, those planning to protest on the anniversary of Mahsa Amini's death. These stricter regulations, as per the Guardian, coincide with increased patrolling by Iran's so-called "morality police" and further "gender segregation" in various public spaces, including universities, hospitals, parks, and workplaces. A group of experts appointed by the UN Human Rights Council see this as an apparent attempt at "suppressing women and girls into total submission." Iranian women agree. Talking to the Guardian, an Iranian journalist said: "With the new law, the government is telling us women that we will go to prison for up to 10 years if we don't wear a hijab. What next? A death penalty for defying the new hijab law?" Also read | Iran shuts down water park over violation of hijab law: Media Another Iranian woman feels like the government wants to "erase women from society." "The Islamic Republic has taken a cue from the Taliban to slowly ban us from public places. They want to erase women from society," said the Tehran-based finance student. Human Rights Activists in Iran (HRA) reported that the new law is under review by Iran's Guardian Council — a powerful body responsible for vetting legislation and overseeing elections. If they endorse the bill, it would return to parliament and could come into effect as early as October, said HRA. This development comes a year after the death of 22-year-old Amini, who died in custody after being detained for allegedly wearing the Islamic headscarf incorrectly. Her death, reportedly due to police beatings, triggered a long wave of protests and significant unrest in Iran. (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.

'Gender apartheid'? Iran proposes harsher punishment, up to 10 years in prison for violating hijab laws

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to make an appearance at the White House and Capitol Hill next week during his visit to the US during the United Nations General Assembly, reported American media citing sources, on Friday (September 15). This comes as the United States Congress is in the midst of debating President Joe Biden’s request to provide $24 billion in military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine.&nbsp;

According to reports, the Ukrainian president is also slated to deliver a speech to the assembly at the UN headquarters in New York.&nbsp;

<h2>Zelensky’s visit to the US</h2>

A report by the Associated Press, citing an administration official&nbsp;speaking on condition of anonymity, said Zelensky will meet with Biden at the White House next Thursday (Sep 21).&nbsp;

The media report citing two anonymous congressional aides said that the Ukrainian president will also visit Capitol Hill to lobby for more US aid to fight the war against Russia.

Both Biden and Zelensky are also due to attend the meeting of the UNGA next week where the Ukrainian president is also planning to hold meetings with other visiting world leaders, reported CBS News.&nbsp; 
 
Zelensky’s last visit to Washington was back in December 2022 when he addressed a joint session of the US Congress which was his first&nbsp;known trip outside Ukraine since the Russian invasion, which began in February that year.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<h2>US aid to Ukraine</h2>

Last week, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Ukraine and announced the latest aid package amounting to more than $1 billion which also included depleted uranium tank shells, which Washington had previously said&nbsp;would not be sent to Kyiv.

In August, Biden had called on the US Congress to send another $24 billion to Ukraine. The package would include $13.1 billion in military aid and $8.5 billion for humanitarian support for Ukraine. It also reportedly includes $2.3 billion for financing and to catalyse donors through the World Bank.&nbsp;

However, the request comes amid signs of softening support for Ukraine among Americans and Congress becoming increasingly divided over providing additional funding for Ukraine as the war is well into its second year.&nbsp;

Republican lawmakers have been pushing for broad federal spending cuts while some are looking to entirely stop money to Ukraine, mostly GOP members who are allied with former US president Donald Trump.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
 
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to make an appearance at the White House and Capitol Hill next week during his visit to the US during the United Nations General Assembly, reported American media citing sources, on Friday (September 15).

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to make an appearance at the White House and Capitol Hill next week during his visit to the US during the United Nations General Assembly, reported American media citing sources, on Friday (September 15). This comes as the United States Congress is in the midst of debating President Joe Biden’s request to provide $24 billion in military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine. According to reports, the Ukrainian president is also slated to deliver a speech to the assembly at the UN headquarters in New York. Zelensky’s visit to the US A report by the Associated Press, citing an administration official speaking on condition of anonymity, said Zelensky will meet with Biden at the White House next Thursday (Sep 21). The media report citing two anonymous congressional aides said that the Ukrainian president will also visit Capitol Hill to lobby for more US aid to fight the war against Russia. Both Biden and Zelensky are also due to attend the meeting of the UNGA next week where the Ukrainian president is also planning to hold meetings with other visiting world leaders, reported CBS News. Zelensky’s last visit to Washington was back in December 2022 when he addressed a joint session of the US Congress which was his first known trip outside Ukraine since the Russian invasion, which began in February that year. US aid to Ukraine Last week, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Ukraine and announced the latest aid package amounting to more than $1 billion which also included depleted uranium tank shells, which Washington had previously said would not be sent to Kyiv. In August, Biden had called on the US Congress to send another $24 billion to Ukraine. The package would include $13.1 billion in military aid and $8.5 billion for humanitarian support for Ukraine. It also reportedly includes $2.3 billion for financing and to catalyse donors through the World Bank. However, the request comes amid signs of softening support for Ukraine among Americans and Congress becoming increasingly divided over providing additional funding for Ukraine as the war is well into its second year. Republican lawmakers have been pushing for broad federal spending cuts while some are looking to entirely stop money to Ukraine, mostly GOP members who are allied with former US president Donald Trump. (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.

Ukraine’s Zelensky to meet Prez Biden as US Congress debates $24 billion aid for Kyiv: Reports

One year ago, on September 13, 22-year-old Iranian woman Mahsa Amini was detained by Iran's so-called 'morality police,' allegedly for wearing Hijab, the Islamic headscarf incorrectly. Three days later, on 16th September 2022, Amini died in custody, reportedly due to police beatings.&nbsp;

Her death had triggered significant unrest in Iran, which soon spiralled into some of the worst political turmoil seen by the nation since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.&nbsp;

One year since Amini's death, has anything changed in Iran? How are Iranian women faring? Let's have a look.

<h2>Women and Iran's Hijab laws now</h2>

Mahsa Amini's death had sparked massive protests within the nation and outside. These protests had initially been difficult to subdue, reports Reuters. The morality police had also, for a large part, disappeared from Iran's streets.

However, as time went on and the protests fizzled out, they returned to the streets, their surveillance activities stronger than ever. Over time, surveillance cameras were installed across public spaces to identify and penalise unveiled women.

Now, in the latest turn of event, authorities in Iran have come up with a draft law that seeks to put women behind bars for up to 10 years for continuing to defy the country's mandatory hijab law.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gender-apartheid-iran-proposes-harsher-laws-including-up-to-10-years-in-prison-for-violating-hijab-laws-635703">'Gender apartheid'? Iran proposes harsher laws, including up to 10 years in prison for violating Hijab laws</a>

The stricter dress code regulations which have been described by the United Nations as “gender apartheid” propose harsh sentences that are comparable to those imposed on murderers and drug traffickers.

As per the Guardian, under these proposed women found in violation of the mandatory Hijab law would face harsh and severe penalties, such as more than 60 lashes, heavy fines, and lengthy prison sentences.&nbsp;

Hossein Raeesi, an Iranian human rights lawyer, says, “That's ridiculous to even think about.”

The draft law also warns businesses of possible closure and other serious consequences if they serve women with “improper dress code.”

A group of experts appointed by the UN Human Rights Council see this as an apparent attempt at “suppressing women and girls into total submission,” and have labelled the draft law “gender apartheid”.

<h2>The noose is tightening, allege rights activists</h2>

Security and women's rights activists as per The Guardian have alleged that Iranian authorities are investing in smart cameras with facial recognition technology. These cameras can reportedly also alert authorities of protests and are capable of sending alerts when large gatherings occur.&nbsp;

Additionally, as per Kurdish residents of Amini's home town, Saqqez, security forces are setting up more checkpoints to detain women who do not comply with the dress code. They are also seeking to use these checkpoints to detain Iranians who are planning on protesting on the anniversary of Mahsa Amini's death.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-female-journalists-in-iran-sentenced-to-prison-over-conspiracy-and-collusion-631999">Iran: Two female journalists sentenced to prison over 'conspiracy and collusion'</a>

Furthermore, in Iran there has been increased patrolling by Iran's so-called “morality police” and further “gender segregation” in various public spaces, including universities, hospitals, parks, and workplaces.&nbsp;

Recently, the Mojhaye Khoroushan water park — located on the outskirts of Iran's northeastern holy city of Mashhad, where the eighth Imam of Shiite Islam's shrine is also situated — was shut down after reportedly allowing women to visit the place without the mandatory headscarf.

<h2>What the Iranian women think</h2>

Iranian women feel like the government wants to “erase women from society.”&nbsp;

“With the new law, the government is telling us women that we will go to prison for up to 10 years if we don't wear a hijab. What next? A death penalty for defying the new hijab law?,” said an Iranian journalist while talking to the Guardian.

Another Iranian woman, a Tehran-based finance student, said: “The Islamic Republic has taken a cue from the Taliban to slowly ban us from public places. They want to erase women from society.”

<h2>Will the draft law be passed?</h2>

As per an organisation called Human Rights Activists in Iran (HRA), the new law is under review by Iran's Guardian Council — a powerful body responsible for vetting legislation and overseeing elections.&nbsp;

If they endorse the bill, it would return to parliament and could come into effect as early as October, said HRA.

<h2>The veil conundrum</h2>

Authorities in Iran describe the Islamic veil as “one of the principles of the Islamic Republic”.

Iranian officials have for the most part of the last one year have blamed “foreign foes”, notably the United States and Israel, for the unrest over Hijab laws.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-shuts-down-water-park-over-violation-of-hijab-law-media-632410">Iran shuts down water park over violation of hijab law: Media</a>

Recent weeks have seen journalists, lawyers, activists, students, academics, artists, public figures and family members of killed protesters, especially among ethnic minorities, being targeted by the authorities.

Outside Iran, the Western society disagrees, and many nations have imposed sanctions on the West-Asian country and on dozens of Iranian officials. These sanctions, as per Reuters, have further strained Iran's already difficult ties with foreign countries.

Inside Iran, many citizens say that the number of unveiled women is continuing to grow, which could be why the nation's Parliament is considering the new, harsher punishments for anyone flouting the dress code.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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One year ago, on September 13, 22-year-old Iranian woman Mahsa Amini was detained by Iran's so-called 'morality police,' allegedly for wearing Hijab, the Islamic headscarf incorrectly.

One year ago, on September 13, 22-year-old Iranian woman Mahsa Amini was detained by Iran's so-called 'morality police,' allegedly for wearing Hijab, the Islamic headscarf incorrectly. Three days later, on 16th September 2022, Amini died in custody, reportedly due to police beatings. Her death had triggered significant unrest in Iran, which soon spiralled into some of the worst political turmoil seen by the nation since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. One year since Amini's death, has anything changed in Iran? How are Iranian women faring? Let's have a look. Women and Iran's Hijab laws now Mahsa Amini's death had sparked massive protests within the nation and outside. These protests had initially been difficult to subdue, reports Reuters. The morality police had also, for a large part, disappeared from Iran's streets. However, as time went on and the protests fizzled out, they returned to the streets, their surveillance activities stronger than ever. Over time, surveillance cameras were installed across public spaces to identify and penalise unveiled women. Now, in the latest turn of event, authorities in Iran have come up with a draft law that seeks to put women behind bars for up to 10 years for continuing to defy the country's mandatory hijab law. Also read | 'Gender apartheid'? Iran proposes harsher laws, including up to 10 years in prison for violating Hijab laws The stricter dress code regulations which have been described by the United Nations as “gender apartheid” propose harsh sentences that are comparable to those imposed on murderers and drug traffickers. As per the Guardian, under these proposed women found in violation of the mandatory Hijab law would face harsh and severe penalties, such as more than 60 lashes, heavy fines, and lengthy prison sentences. Hossein Raeesi, an Iranian human rights lawyer, says, “That's ridiculous to even think about.” The draft law also warns businesses of possible closure and other serious consequences if they serve women with “improper dress code.” A group of experts appointed by the UN Human Rights Council see this as an apparent attempt at “suppressing women and girls into total submission,” and have labelled the draft law “gender apartheid”. The noose is tightening, allege rights activists Security and women's rights activists as per The Guardian have alleged that Iranian authorities are investing in smart cameras with facial recognition technology. These cameras can reportedly also alert authorities of protests and are capable of sending alerts when large gatherings occur. Additionally, as per Kurdish residents of Amini's home town, Saqqez, security forces are setting up more checkpoints to detain women who do not comply with the dress code. They are also seeking to use these checkpoints to detain Iranians who are planning on protesting on the anniversary of Mahsa Amini's death. Also read | Iran: Two female journalists sentenced to prison over 'conspiracy and collusion' Furthermore, in Iran there has been increased patrolling by Iran's so-called “morality police” and further “gender segregation” in various public spaces, including universities, hospitals, parks, and workplaces. Recently, the Mojhaye Khoroushan water park — located on the outskirts of Iran's northeastern holy city of Mashhad, where the eighth Imam of Shiite Islam's shrine is also situated — was shut down after reportedly allowing women to visit the place without the mandatory headscarf. What the Iranian women think Iranian women feel like the government wants to “erase women from society.” “With the new law, the government is telling us women that we will go to prison for up to 10 years if we don't wear a hijab. What next? A death penalty for defying the new hijab law?,” said an Iranian journalist while talking to the Guardian. Another Iranian woman, a Tehran-based finance student, said: “The Islamic Republic has taken a cue from the Taliban to slowly ban us from public places. They want to erase women from society.” Will the draft law be passed? As per an organisation called Human Rights Activists in Iran (HRA), the new law is under review by Iran's Guardian Council — a powerful body responsible for vetting legislation and overseeing elections. If they endorse the bill, it would return to parliament and could come into effect as early as October, said HRA. The veil conundrum Authorities in Iran describe the Islamic veil as “one of the principles of the Islamic Republic”. Iranian officials have for the most part of the last one year have blamed “foreign foes”, notably the United States and Israel, for the unrest over Hijab laws. Also read | Iran shuts down water park over violation of hijab law: Media Recent weeks have seen journalists, lawyers, activists, students, academics, artists, public figures and family members of killed protesters, especially among ethnic minorities, being targeted by the authorities. Outside Iran, the Western society disagrees, and many nations have imposed sanctions on the West-Asian country and on dozens of Iranian officials. These sanctions, as per Reuters, have further strained Iran's already difficult ties with foreign countries. Inside Iran, many citizens say that the number of unveiled women is continuing to grow, which could be why the nation's Parliament is considering the new, harsher punishments for anyone flouting the dress code. (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.

Explained | A year after Mahsa Amini's death at the hands of morality police, how are Iranian women faring?

United Nations has come up with a report stating that the border between the United States and Mexico is the deadliest on the globe.

US-Mexico border: Migrants found dead along desert crossings

At the United Nations general assembly, the African ministers called for expanding the security council to include permanent representation for their continent and stressed the vital role of socio-economic development in ensuring peace.

After G20, Africa now eyes UNSC

According to a United Nations report released on Monday (September 11), Colombia, known as the world's largest cocaine producer, set a record in 2022 for an all-time high cocaine production and coca-leaf cultivation, exceeding the figures from 2021.&nbsp;The release of the UN report comes amid the Colombian government's efforts under President Gustavo Petro to devise a strategy to combat drug consumption and trafficking. President Petro proposed the idea of forming an alliance among Latin American nations to collectively address drug trafficking issues with a fresh strategy.&nbsp;

The report from the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) revealed that coca-leaf cultivation witnessed a substantial increase of 13 per cent compared to 2021, covering an expansive 230,000 hectares of land.

<h2>Rising cocaine production</h2>

In this period, cocaine production surged from 1,400 tonnes to an alarming 1,738 tonnes, representing the highest figures since the UN initiated its data monitoring efforts in 2001. A significant portion of Colombian cocaine finds its way into the United States and Europe.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypt-protests-ethiopias-gerd-filling-labels-move-illegal-634846">Egypt protests Ethiopia's Nile dam filling, labels move 'Illegal'</a>

As far as the geographical distribution of coca cultivation is concerned, nearly two-thirds are concentrated in the southern departments of Narino and Putumayo, bordering Ecuador. These regions have been grappling with drug gang-related violence.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-saudi-arabia-are-in-dialogue-to-secure-metals-in-africa-report-634827">US, Saudi Arabia are in dialogue to secure metals in Africa: Report</a>

Additionally, North Santander, situated along the Venezuelan border, also saw substantial coca cultivation. Approximately half of drug crops were discovered in Indigenous reserves, with around 10 percent in forest reserves and five percent in natural parks, the UN report said.&nbsp;

<h2>Government's response&nbsp;</h2>

During the Latin American and Caribbean Conference on Drugs in Cali, Colombian President Gustavo Petro advocated for a unified approach across Latin American nations to tackle drug trafficking.&nbsp;This is a fresh approach that entails looking at drug consumption as a matter of public health, rather than as what he labeled as an ineffective militarised strategy.

Watch | Morocco Earthquake: Death toll rises to over 2,122 rescue operation underway

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"What I propose is to have a different and unified voice that defends our societies, our future, and our history and to stop repeating a failed discourse that has already failed," he said urging to step away from move that leads to "immeasurable bloodshed and pain in Latin America."

Since taking office in 2022, President Petro has shown interest in the possibility of legalising marijuana in Colombia.

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According to a United Nations report released on Monday (September 11), Colombia, known as the world's largest cocaine producer, set a record in 2022 for an all-time high cocaine production and coca-leaf cultivation, exceeding the figures from 2021.

According to a United Nations report released on Monday (September 11), Colombia, known as the world's largest cocaine producer, set a record in 2022 for an all-time high cocaine production and coca-leaf cultivation, exceeding the figures from 2021. The release of the UN report comes amid the Colombian government's efforts under President Gustavo Petro to devise a strategy to combat drug consumption and trafficking. President Petro proposed the idea of forming an alliance among Latin American nations to collectively address drug trafficking issues with a fresh strategy. The report from the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) revealed that coca-leaf cultivation witnessed a substantial increase of 13 per cent compared to 2021, covering an expansive 230,000 hectares of land. Rising cocaine production In this period, cocaine production surged from 1,400 tonnes to an alarming 1,738 tonnes, representing the highest figures since the UN initiated its data monitoring efforts in 2001. A significant portion of Colombian cocaine finds its way into the United States and Europe. Also Read | Egypt protests Ethiopia's Nile dam filling, labels move 'Illegal' As far as the geographical distribution of coca cultivation is concerned, nearly two-thirds are concentrated in the southern departments of Narino and Putumayo, bordering Ecuador. These regions have been grappling with drug gang-related violence. Also Read | US, Saudi Arabia are in dialogue to secure metals in Africa: Report Additionally, North Santander, situated along the Venezuelan border, also saw substantial coca cultivation. Approximately half of drug crops were discovered in Indigenous reserves, with around 10 percent in forest reserves and five percent in natural parks, the UN report said. Government's response During the Latin American and Caribbean Conference on Drugs in Cali, Colombian President Gustavo Petro advocated for a unified approach across Latin American nations to tackle drug trafficking. This is a fresh approach that entails looking at drug consumption as a matter of public health, rather than as what he labeled as an ineffective militarised strategy. Watch | Morocco Earthquake: Death toll rises to over 2,122 rescue operation underway × "What I propose is to have a different and unified voice that defends our societies, our future, and our history and to stop repeating a failed discourse that has already failed," he said urging to step away from move that leads to "immeasurable bloodshed and pain in Latin America." Since taking office in 2022, President Petro has shown interest in the possibility of legalising marijuana in Colombia. 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. ×

Colombia's cocaine production hits all-time high in 2022, Petro calls for new strategy

UN human rights chief&nbsp;Volker Turk on Monday (September 11) urged for an international investigation into the&nbsp;2020 Beirut port blast that killed 178 people. The Beirut port blast on August 4, 2020 "ripped the city to shreds" exacerbating the socio-economic crisis amid the COVID-19 pandemic. As per reports, the blast is thought to have been set off by a fire at a warehouse. It detonated ammonium nitrate, hundreds of tonnes.

There were over 178 people who lost their lives in the catastrophe. The blast left over 6,500 injured while 300,000 people became homeless. There was massive infrastructure damage that plagued the country ever since.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypt-protests-ethiopias-gerd-filling-labels-move-illegal-634846">Egypt protests Ethiopia's Nile dam filling, labels move 'Illegal'</a>

Turk flagged that there was zero accountability for the blast and that the devastating incident needed to be looked into. "Three years after the Beirut explosion... there has been no accountability,"&nbsp;Turk told the United Nations Human Rights Council. "It may therefore be time to consider an international fact-finding mission to look into human rights violations related to this tragedy," he added.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-saudi-arabia-are-in-dialogue-to-secure-metals-in-africa-report-634827">US, Saudi Arabia are in dialogue to secure metals in Africa: Report</a>

Important health infrastructure damaging the medical supplies. The human rights condition of the people of Lebanon is "more vulnerable than ever before". Over 1 million people living below the poverty line and 1.5 million refugees.

<h2>Beirut blast</h2>

The&nbsp;ammonium nitrate shipment was originally Mozambique-bound. It was on a Russian-leased ship. It is worth noting that the chemicals had been at the port since 2013. After that, it was unloaded in the process of an unscheduled stop. Up until now, no one has claimed responsibility for the shipment that detonated leading to the disastrous incident. The dispute is over unpaid fees and defects, as per Reuters news agency.&nbsp;

Watch | Morocco Earthquake: Death toll rises to over 2,122 rescue operation underway

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According to an FBI investigation,&nbsp;one-fifth of the 2,754 tonnes of ammonium nitrate that was unloaded in 2013 was detonated. This has led to some reports saying that the majority of the cargo went missing. The blast was so massive that it resulted in a humongous cloud over Beirut city.

The tremors of the blast were also felt 250 km (155 miles) away in Cyprus. The cargo was not unknown, as several Lebanese officials, including then-president Michel Aoun and then-prime minister Hassan Diab was aware of it.

In a 2021 report,&nbsp;Human Rights Watch blamed the government saying that officials "foresaw the significant threat to life ... and tacitly accepted the risk of deaths occurring".

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&nbsp;

UN human rights chief Volker Turk on Monday (September 11) urged for an international investigation into the 2020 Beirut port blast that killed 178 people. The Beirut port blast on August 4, 2020 "ripped the city to shreds" exacerbating the socio-economic crisis amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

UN human rights chief Volker Turk on Monday (September 11) urged for an international investigation into the 2020 Beirut port blast that killed 178 people. The Beirut port blast on August 4, 2020 "ripped the city to shreds" exacerbating the socio-economic crisis amid the COVID-19 pandemic. As per reports, the blast is thought to have been set off by a fire at a warehouse. It detonated ammonium nitrate, hundreds of tonnes. There were over 178 people who lost their lives in the catastrophe. The blast left over 6,500 injured while 300,000 people became homeless. There was massive infrastructure damage that plagued the country ever since. Also Read | Egypt protests Ethiopia's Nile dam filling, labels move 'Illegal' Turk flagged that there was zero accountability for the blast and that the devastating incident needed to be looked into. "Three years after the Beirut explosion... there has been no accountability," Turk told the United Nations Human Rights Council. "It may therefore be time to consider an international fact-finding mission to look into human rights violations related to this tragedy," he added. Also Read | US, Saudi Arabia are in dialogue to secure metals in Africa: Report Important health infrastructure damaging the medical supplies. The human rights condition of the people of Lebanon is "more vulnerable than ever before". Over 1 million people living below the poverty line and 1.5 million refugees. Beirut blast The ammonium nitrate shipment was originally Mozambique-bound. It was on a Russian-leased ship. It is worth noting that the chemicals had been at the port since 2013. After that, it was unloaded in the process of an unscheduled stop. Up until now, no one has claimed responsibility for the shipment that detonated leading to the disastrous incident. The dispute is over unpaid fees and defects, as per Reuters news agency. Watch | Morocco Earthquake: Death toll rises to over 2,122 rescue operation underway × According to an FBI investigation, one-fifth of the 2,754 tonnes of ammonium nitrate that was unloaded in 2013 was detonated. This has led to some reports saying that the majority of the cargo went missing. The blast was so massive that it resulted in a humongous cloud over Beirut city. The tremors of the blast were also felt 250 km (155 miles) away in Cyprus. The cargo was not unknown, as several Lebanese officials, including then-president Michel Aoun and then-prime minister Hassan Diab was aware of it. In a 2021 report, Human Rights Watch blamed the government saying that officials "foresaw the significant threat to life ... and tacitly accepted the risk of deaths occurring". WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'No accountability': UN rights chief calls for international probe in 2020 Beirut blast

From the fight against poverty to education access, from political representation to economic opportunity, the world is "failing women and girls," the United Nations warned in a report on gender equality released Thursday.&nbsp;

The report from UN Women reviewed the progress made on the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), adopted by the body's members in 2015, which were meant to create a better world for all by 2030.

The results of the review are grim.

"When we look at the data, it does look like the world is failing to advance and achieve gender equality," deputy executive director of UN Women Sarah Hendriks told AFP.

"And it is becoming, I'd say, an increasingly distant goal," she added.&nbsp;

The goal focused on gender equality aims by the end of the decade to eliminate gender discrimination, violence against women, forced marriages and genital mutilation, to make domestic work more equal, to guarantee access to reproductive health care and to ensure women's participation in political and economic life.

But "halfway to 2030, the world is failing women and girls," the report warns, with most of the goal's targets falling behind.&nbsp;

Every year, 245 million women over age 15 are victims of physical violence by their partners, one in five women are married before age 18, women spend 2.8 more hours per day doing unpaid housework than their male counterparts and women represent only 26.7 per cent of all lawmakers worldwide.

To change those trends, it would cost some $360 billion in additional investments per year in 50 developing countries, representing some 70 per cent of the world's population, the agency estimates.&nbsp;

That money would "enable the lifting of the entire SDG agenda," Hendriks said.&nbsp;

"We know what needs to be done and the world needs to pay for it," she said.&nbsp;

"And if we make gender equality that specific objective of development, the trajectory can change," she said, by "strengthening mutual accountability to place women and girls at the centre."

In July, the UN rang the alarm on the SDGs overall, saying they are "in peril" and calling for a "rescue plan" ahead of a summit set for September 18 and 19.&nbsp;

According to the UN Women report, the outcomes for many global development goals are worse for women than they are for humanity overall.&nbsp;

For example, at the current rate, 575 million people will still live in extreme poverty by 2030, a far cry from the eradication the UN hoped for. And of those, 342 million of them will be women, or about 8 per cent of the women in the world, according to the report.

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From the fight against poverty to education access, from political representation to economic opportunity, the world is "failing women and girls," the United Nations warned in a report on gender equality released Thursday.

From the fight against poverty to education access, from political representation to economic opportunity, the world is "failing women and girls," the United Nations warned in a report on gender equality released Thursday. The report from UN Women reviewed the progress made on the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), adopted by the body's members in 2015, which were meant to create a better world for all by 2030. The results of the review are grim. "When we look at the data, it does look like the world is failing to advance and achieve gender equality," deputy executive director of UN Women Sarah Hendriks told AFP. "And it is becoming, I'd say, an increasingly distant goal," she added. The goal focused on gender equality aims by the end of the decade to eliminate gender discrimination, violence against women, forced marriages and genital mutilation, to make domestic work more equal, to guarantee access to reproductive health care and to ensure women's participation in political and economic life. But "halfway to 2030, the world is failing women and girls," the report warns, with most of the goal's targets falling behind. Every year, 245 million women over age 15 are victims of physical violence by their partners, one in five women are married before age 18, women spend 2.8 more hours per day doing unpaid housework than their male counterparts and women represent only 26.7 per cent of all lawmakers worldwide. To change those trends, it would cost some $360 billion in additional investments per year in 50 developing countries, representing some 70 per cent of the world's population, the agency estimates. That money would "enable the lifting of the entire SDG agenda," Hendriks said. "We know what needs to be done and the world needs to pay for it," she said. "And if we make gender equality that specific objective of development, the trajectory can change," she said, by "strengthening mutual accountability to place women and girls at the centre." In July, the UN rang the alarm on the SDGs overall, saying they are "in peril" and calling for a "rescue plan" ahead of a summit set for September 18 and 19. According to the UN Women report, the outcomes for many global development goals are worse for women than they are for humanity overall. For example, at the current rate, 575 million people will still live in extreme poverty by 2030, a far cry from the eradication the UN hoped for. And of those, 342 million of them will be women, or about 8 per cent of the women in the world, according to the report. 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.

World is failing women and girls, warns United Nations in gender equality report

The world endures its hottest summer since records began. UN chief says ‘climate breakdown has begun’.

Northern hemisphere experiences a summer of extremes

India's permanent representative of the United Nations called for the expansion of the United Nations Security Council in both the permanent and the non-permanent categories.

India calls for UN security council expansion

Invasive species are wreaking havoc and upending ecosystems faster than ever before. Humans have been unable to stop its spread, costing the global economy over $400 billion every year, according to a report by the United Nations published on Monday (September 4).&nbsp;

<h2>‘Gross underestimation’</h2>

With the rise in the spread of invasive species, the world has seen economic damages quadruple every decade since 1970, the UN Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) noted&nbsp;in its findings. &nbsp;

The failure to stem the tide of the so-called “alien species” in the world’s ecosystems&nbsp;also costs the world at least $423 billion in damages and income every year, according to the UN assessment. To put this number into perspective, the amount is equivalent to the GDP of Denmark or Thailand, but the scientists have called it a “gross underestimation”.

The findings are based on a four-year assessment of the global impacts of some 3,500 harmful invasive species conducted by a team of 86 researchers from 49 countries. Notably, so-called alien invaders also played a key role in 60 per cent of recorded plant and animal extinctions.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Alien species’ wreak&nbsp;havoc across the world</h2>

From water hyacinths choking fishing grounds and water bodies to&nbsp;rats and snakes gobbling up bird eggs and wiping out entire species in the Pacific and non-native grasses that helped fuel and intensify the deadly wildfires in Hawaii;&nbsp;environmental chaos has been sown by invasive species across the world.&nbsp;

Not to mention the mosquitoes exposing new regions to Zika, yellow fever, dengue and other diseases. The report also noted the role of more than 37,000 so-called alien species that have taken root far away from their places of origin.&nbsp;

At least three-quarters of the negative impacts from invasive species occur on land, particularly in forests, woodlands, and farmed areas, said the UN report.&nbsp;

Simply put, invasive species are plants or animals, often moved due to human activity, which can take root – literally in some cases – and have detrimental effects on an environment. While the effects are slow to materialise they can be catastrophic. &nbsp;

“We also know this is a problem that is going to get much, much worse,” said ecologist Helen Roy, co-chair of the IPBES. This comes as warmer temperatures due to climate change are expected to make things worse and drive the expansion of invasive species.&nbsp;

The report has also concluded by saying that factors such as economic expansion, population increase and climate change “increase the frequency and extent of biological invasions and the impacts of invasive alien species.”&nbsp;

But we only have ourselves to blame. According to the researchers, whether by accident or on purpose non-native species end up on the other side of the world due to human activity.&nbsp;

More often than not, invasive species are accidental arrivals like ballast water of cargo ships or a tourist’s suitcase.&nbsp;

They also said that this is hard evidence of the rapid expansion of human activity which has radically altered natural systems and tipped the Earth to a new geological epoch, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/explained-what-is-anthropocene-the-new-epoch-marked-by-human-impact-614721">the Anthropocene</a>.&nbsp;

<h2>How big is threat of invasive species?</h2>

“Invasive alien species are a major threat to biodiversity and can cause irreversible damage to nature, including local and global species extinctions, and also threaten human wellbeing,” wrote Roy, Professor Anibal Pauchard and Professor Peter Stoett, who led the research.&nbsp;

The researchers also noted that while “specific species that inflict damage vary from place to place, these are risks and challenges with global roots but very local impacts facing people in every country, from all backgrounds and in every community – even Antarctica is being affected.”

“Invasive species are affecting not only nature but also people and causing terrible loss of life,” said Pauchard who is also the report co-chair.&nbsp;

One of the most recent examples of this is the wildfires in Hawaii last month which claimed the lives of at least 115 people and are said to be driven by flammable invasive grasses which, scientists say, were brought over from Africa as livestock pasture.&nbsp;

According to Roy, invasives can show up in several forms, including microbes, and invertebrates but plants, and animals often have the greatest environmental impact, particularly predators.&nbsp;

<h2>What can we do about it?</h2>

Once introduced and established in an environment, getting rid of invasive species is difficult. While some small islands have witnessed some success in eradicating invasive rats and rabbits with trapping and/or poisoning; larger populations pose a challenge.&nbsp;

The report also noted that only 17 per cent of countries have measures, laws or regulations to manage this onslaught of invasive species.&nbsp;

“Birds in New Zealand had no experience with rats until humans came and brought rats. Their nests are at ground level,” said Pauchard, speaking about how many island species had previously evolved without predators which made them “very naive”.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, invasive plants often reportedly leave their seeds lying dormant in the soil for years.&nbsp;

Therefore, the IPBES outlines general strategies to combat invasive species which include prevention, eradication and then, failing that, containment. However, prevention measures through border biosecurity and import controls are most effective, said the scientists.&nbsp;

In a bid to save biodiversity, at least 190 countries have committed to placing 30 per cent of land and water under protection by 2030, in line with a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/countries-sign-historic-deal-at-cop-15-commit-billions-by-2030-to-save-biodiversity-544511">global treaty</a> hammered out in Montreal last December.&nbsp;

The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework also aims to reduce the rate at which invasive alien species spread by half by 2030.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Invasive species are wreaking havoc and upending ecosystems faster than ever before. Humans have been unable to stop its spread, costing the global economy over $400 billion every year, according to a report by the United Nations published on Monday (September 4).

Invasive species are wreaking havoc and upending ecosystems faster than ever before. Humans have been unable to stop its spread, costing the global economy over $400 billion every year, according to a report by the United Nations published on Monday (September 4). ‘Gross underestimation’ With the rise in the spread of invasive species, the world has seen economic damages quadruple every decade since 1970, the UN Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) noted in its findings. The failure to stem the tide of the so-called “alien species” in the world’s ecosystems also costs the world at least $423 billion in damages and income every year, according to the UN assessment. To put this number into perspective, the amount is equivalent to the GDP of Denmark or Thailand, but the scientists have called it a “gross underestimation”. The findings are based on a four-year assessment of the global impacts of some 3,500 harmful invasive species conducted by a team of 86 researchers from 49 countries. Notably, so-called alien invaders also played a key role in 60 per cent of recorded plant and animal extinctions. ‘Alien species’ wreak havoc across the world From water hyacinths choking fishing grounds and water bodies to rats and snakes gobbling up bird eggs and wiping out entire species in the Pacific and non-native grasses that helped fuel and intensify the deadly wildfires in Hawaii; environmental chaos has been sown by invasive species across the world. Not to mention the mosquitoes exposing new regions to Zika, yellow fever, dengue and other diseases. The report also noted the role of more than 37,000 so-called alien species that have taken root far away from their places of origin. At least three-quarters of the negative impacts from invasive species occur on land, particularly in forests, woodlands, and farmed areas, said the UN report. Simply put, invasive species are plants or animals, often moved due to human activity, which can take root – literally in some cases – and have detrimental effects on an environment. While the effects are slow to materialise they can be catastrophic. “We also know this is a problem that is going to get much, much worse,” said ecologist Helen Roy, co-chair of the IPBES. This comes as warmer temperatures due to climate change are expected to make things worse and drive the expansion of invasive species. The report has also concluded by saying that factors such as economic expansion, population increase and climate change “increase the frequency and extent of biological invasions and the impacts of invasive alien species.” But we only have ourselves to blame. According to the researchers, whether by accident or on purpose non-native species end up on the other side of the world due to human activity. More often than not, invasive species are accidental arrivals like ballast water of cargo ships or a tourist’s suitcase. They also said that this is hard evidence of the rapid expansion of human activity which has radically altered natural systems and tipped the Earth to a new geological epoch, the Anthropocene. How big is threat of invasive species? “Invasive alien species are a major threat to biodiversity and can cause irreversible damage to nature, including local and global species extinctions, and also threaten human wellbeing,” wrote Roy, Professor Anibal Pauchard and Professor Peter Stoett, who led the research. The researchers also noted that while “specific species that inflict damage vary from place to place, these are risks and challenges with global roots but very local impacts facing people in every country, from all backgrounds and in every community – even Antarctica is being affected.” “Invasive species are affecting not only nature but also people and causing terrible loss of life,” said Pauchard who is also the report co-chair. One of the most recent examples of this is the wildfires in Hawaii last month which claimed the lives of at least 115 people and are said to be driven by flammable invasive grasses which, scientists say, were brought over from Africa as livestock pasture. According to Roy, invasives can show up in several forms, including microbes, and invertebrates but plants, and animals often have the greatest environmental impact, particularly predators. What can we do about it? Once introduced and established in an environment, getting rid of invasive species is difficult. While some small islands have witnessed some success in eradicating invasive rats and rabbits with trapping and/or poisoning; larger populations pose a challenge. The report also noted that only 17 per cent of countries have measures, laws or regulations to manage this onslaught of invasive species. “Birds in New Zealand had no experience with rats until humans came and brought rats. Their nests are at ground level,” said Pauchard, speaking about how many island species had previously evolved without predators which made them “very naive”. Meanwhile, invasive plants often reportedly leave their seeds lying dormant in the soil for years. Therefore, the IPBES outlines general strategies to combat invasive species which include prevention, eradication and then, failing that, containment. However, prevention measures through border biosecurity and import controls are most effective, said the scientists. In a bid to save biodiversity, at least 190 countries have committed to placing 30 per cent of land and water under protection by 2030, in line with a global treaty hammered out in Montreal last December. The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework also aims to reduce the rate at which invasive alien species spread by half by 2030. (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.

Explained | Alien invasive species cost global economy over $400bn per year, says UN

India has hit back at the recent comments made by UN experts on the Manipur sectarian violence, calling them “unwarranted, presumptive, and misleading”.

Asserting that the situation in the northeast state is peaceful and stable, the Indian mission said that the Indian government was committed to taking requisite steps to maintain peace and stability.

"The Government is also committed to protecting the human rights of the people of India, including the people of Manipur,” it said in the note verbale sent on Monday (Sept 4) to the Special Procedures Branch of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.

“The Permanent Mission of India completely rejects the news release as it is not only unwarranted, presumptive and misleading but also betrays a complete lack of understanding on the situation in Manipur and the steps taken by Government of India to address it,” the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations Office and other International Organizations in Geneva said.

<h2>India kept in the dark about UN report&nbsp;</h2>

The response from India came after the Special Procedure Mandate Holders (SPMH) released a report titled ‘India: UN&nbsp;experts alarmed by continuing abuses in Manipur’.

The Indian mission expressed disappointment and surprise that the SPMHs chose to issue the press release without waiting for the 60-day period for the Indian government to respond to a joint communication issued on the same topic on August 29, 2023.

The Indian mission expressed hope that in the future, the SPMH would be “more objective” in their assessment, based on the facts.

<h2>'Refrain from making remarks'</h2>

It hoped that the SPMH would “refrain from commenting on the developments, which have no relevance to the mandate given to them by the Council and abide by the established procedure for issuing news releases and wait for inputs sought from the Government of India before doing so.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjQzujw9pKBAxUa-jgGHaM0CTkQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-fresh-bout-of-violence-rocks-manipur-popular-tribal-songwriter-among-6-killed-631104" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-fresh-bout-of-violence-rocks-manipur-popular-tribal-songwriter-among-6-killed-631104&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjQzujw9pKBAxUa-jgGHaM0CTkQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE">India: Fresh bout of violence rocks Manipur, popular tribal songwriter among 6 killed</a>

In the report, the UN experts said they were “appalled” by the reports and images of gender-based violence targeting hundreds of women and girls of all ages, and predominantly of the Kuki ethnic minority.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjQzujw9pKBAxUa-jgGHaM0CTkQxfQBKAB6BAgVEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/massive-manipur-rally-defends-state-unity-calls-for-action-against-insurgents-620648" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/massive-manipur-rally-defends-state-unity-calls-for-action-against-insurgents-620648&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjQzujw9pKBAxUa-jgGHaM0CTkQxfQBKAB6BAgVEAE">Massive Manipur rally defends state unity, calls for action against insurgents</a>

“The alleged violence includes gang rape, parading women naked in the street, severe beatings causing death, and burning them alive or dead,” the experts said.

The experts also pointed to an “inadequate humanitarian response” in the wake of the grave humanitarian situation in Manipur following the latest round of community conflict between the predominantly Hindu Meitei and the predominantly Christian Kuki ethnic communities that erupted in May 2023.

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India has hit back at the recent comments made by UN experts on the Manipur sectarian violence, calling them “unwarranted, presumptive, and misleading”. Asserting that the situation in the northeast state is peaceful and stable, the Indian mission said that the Indian government was committed to taking requisite steps to maintain peace and stability.

India has hit back at the recent comments made by UN experts on the Manipur sectarian violence, calling them “unwarranted, presumptive, and misleading”. Asserting that the situation in the northeast state is peaceful and stable, the Indian mission said that the Indian government was committed to taking requisite steps to maintain peace and stability. "The Government is also committed to protecting the human rights of the people of India, including the people of Manipur,” it said in the note verbale sent on Monday (Sept 4) to the Special Procedures Branch of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. “The Permanent Mission of India completely rejects the news release as it is not only unwarranted, presumptive and misleading but also betrays a complete lack of understanding on the situation in Manipur and the steps taken by Government of India to address it,” the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations Office and other International Organizations in Geneva said. India kept in the dark about UN report The response from India came after the Special Procedure Mandate Holders (SPMH) released a report titled ‘India: UN experts alarmed by continuing abuses in Manipur’. The Indian mission expressed disappointment and surprise that the SPMHs chose to issue the press release without waiting for the 60-day period for the Indian government to respond to a joint communication issued on the same topic on August 29, 2023. The Indian mission expressed hope that in the future, the SPMH would be “more objective” in their assessment, based on the facts. 'Refrain from making remarks' It hoped that the SPMH would “refrain from commenting on the developments, which have no relevance to the mandate given to them by the Council and abide by the established procedure for issuing news releases and wait for inputs sought from the Government of India before doing so.” Also read | India: Fresh bout of violence rocks Manipur, popular tribal songwriter among 6 killed In the report, the UN experts said they were “appalled” by the reports and images of gender-based violence targeting hundreds of women and girls of all ages, and predominantly of the Kuki ethnic minority. Also read | Massive Manipur rally defends state unity, calls for action against insurgents “The alleged violence includes gang rape, parading women naked in the street, severe beatings causing death, and burning them alive or dead,” the experts said. The experts also pointed to an “inadequate humanitarian response” in the wake of the grave humanitarian situation in Manipur following the latest round of community conflict between the predominantly Hindu Meitei and the predominantly Christian Kuki ethnic communities that erupted in May 2023. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India slams ‘unwarranted and misleading’ remarks of UN experts on Manipur violence

Bill Richardson, a former United States diplomat, New Mexico ex-governor, and a prominent figure in American politics passed away at the age of 75, the Richardson Center for Global Engagement said on Saturday (September 2). He was most known for making his mark on the world stage as a negotiator by securing the release of Americans and others held by various autocratic governments.&nbsp;

<h2>About his death</h2>

The Richardson Center for Global Engagement, which he founded and led, said that he died in his sleep at his summer home in Chatham, Massachusetts.&nbsp;

“He lived his entire life in the service of others — including both his time in government and his subsequent career helping to free people held hostage or wrongfully detained abroad,” said vice president of the Richardson Center Mickey Bergman, in a statement.&nbsp;

He added, “The world has lost a champion for those held unjustly abroad and I have lost a mentor and a dear friend.”

<h2>Career at home and abroad</h2>

Richardson was said to be one of the highest-profile Latinos in American politics and was the first Latino to run for the US presidency but eventually backed Barack Obama’s bid in 2007. &nbsp;

He made his name as the “Indiana Jones” of US diplomacy for his daring head-to-head encounters with leaders of countries that America perceived as a threat, including Iraq’s late president Saddam Hussein, Cuba’s late leader Fidel Castro, and Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro.

Richardson served from 1982 to 1996 as a Democratic member of the US House of Representatives, US ambassador to the United Nations and energy secretary, both under former President Bill Clinton.&nbsp;

Richardson was also elected as the governor of New Mexico and served between 2003 and 2011.&nbsp;

More recently, he was involved in efforts that led to the release of American basketball player <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-basketball-star-brittney-griner-on-her-way-home-confirms-joe-biden-541338">Brittney Griner</a> in December from a Russian prison after she was convicted of a drug offence.&nbsp;

Richardson was known for using his deft negotiating skills and personal warmth to act both as a formal representative of the US and later as a freelance troubleshooter on private humanitarian missions which secured the release of several Americans stuck overseas including North Korea, Myanmar, Sudan, Iraq, Iran and Cuba.

However, his work with authoritarian figures sometimes landed him in hot water with critics and rights activists who accused him of offering legitimacy to unsavoury regimes. “I don’t legitimize governments…I’m just one person that is trying to make a difference,” he once told AFP.&nbsp;

<h2>Early life</h2>

The son of a Mexican mother and an American father, born on November 15, 1947, in Pasadena, California, William Blaine Richardson spent his youth in Mexico City, where his bank executive father headed Citibank and his mother worked as a bank secretary.&nbsp;

He later attended a prep school in the state of Massachusetts where was a star baseball player. Richardson graduated from Tufts University with a degree in international relations and later earned a master’s degree in international affairs.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Bill Richardson, a former United States diplomat, New Mexico ex-governor, and a prominent figure in American politics passed away at the age of 75, the Richardson Center for Global Engagement said on Saturday (September 2).

Bill Richardson, a former United States diplomat, New Mexico ex-governor, and a prominent figure in American politics passed away at the age of 75, the Richardson Center for Global Engagement said on Saturday (September 2). He was most known for making his mark on the world stage as a negotiator by securing the release of Americans and others held by various autocratic governments. About his death The Richardson Center for Global Engagement, which he founded and led, said that he died in his sleep at his summer home in Chatham, Massachusetts. “He lived his entire life in the service of others — including both his time in government and his subsequent career helping to free people held hostage or wrongfully detained abroad,” said vice president of the Richardson Center Mickey Bergman, in a statement. He added, “The world has lost a champion for those held unjustly abroad and I have lost a mentor and a dear friend.” Career at home and abroad Richardson was said to be one of the highest-profile Latinos in American politics and was the first Latino to run for the US presidency but eventually backed Barack Obama’s bid in 2007. He made his name as the “Indiana Jones” of US diplomacy for his daring head-to-head encounters with leaders of countries that America perceived as a threat, including Iraq’s late president Saddam Hussein, Cuba’s late leader Fidel Castro, and Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro. Richardson served from 1982 to 1996 as a Democratic member of the US House of Representatives, US ambassador to the United Nations and energy secretary, both under former President Bill Clinton. Richardson was also elected as the governor of New Mexico and served between 2003 and 2011. More recently, he was involved in efforts that led to the release of American basketball player Brittney Griner in December from a Russian prison after she was convicted of a drug offence. Richardson was known for using his deft negotiating skills and personal warmth to act both as a formal representative of the US and later as a freelance troubleshooter on private humanitarian missions which secured the release of several Americans stuck overseas including North Korea, Myanmar, Sudan, Iraq, Iran and Cuba. However, his work with authoritarian figures sometimes landed him in hot water with critics and rights activists who accused him of offering legitimacy to unsavoury regimes. “I don’t legitimize governments…I’m just one person that is trying to make a difference,” he once told AFP. Early life The son of a Mexican mother and an American father, born on November 15, 1947, in Pasadena, California, William Blaine Richardson spent his youth in Mexico City, where his bank executive father headed Citibank and his mother worked as a bank secretary. He later attended a prep school in the state of Massachusetts where was a star baseball player. Richardson graduated from Tufts University with a degree in international relations and later earned a master’s degree in international affairs. (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.

Bill Richardson, globe-trotting US diplomat, brilliant negotiator and former New Mexico governor, dies at 75

Hundreds of thousands of people are being trafficked by criminal gangs and forced to work in scam centres and other illegal online operations that have sprung up across Southeast Asia in recent years, the United Nations said in a report on Tuesday.

'Hundreds of thousands' trafficked into South East Asia scam centres: UN

Ethiopia will launch a joint investigation with Saudi Arabia into allegations made by a human rights group that hundreds of migrants from their country were killed by Saudi border guards, said the Ethiopian foreign ministry, on Tuesday (August 22).&nbsp;

This comes a day after a report by Human Rights Watch (HRW) accused the Saudi border guards of mass killings of migrants along the Yemeni border.&nbsp;

<h2>Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia on the HRW report</h2>

A day after the HRW report was published, the Ethiopian foreign ministry released a statement and said, “The Government of Ethiopia will promptly investigate the incident in tandem with Saudi Authorities.” It also went on to emphasise the strong relations between the two governments.

“It is highly advised to exercise utmost restraint from making unnecessary speculations until the investigation is complete,” the statement added. Meanwhile, a Saudi government source who spoke to AFP called the allegations&nbsp;“unfounded”.&nbsp;

“The allegations included in the Human Rights Watch report about Saudi border guards shooting Ethiopians while they were crossing the Saudi-Yemeni border are unfounded and not based on reliable sources,” the anonymous source told the news agency.&nbsp;

<h2>What was the report about?</h2>

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-undertakes-mass-killings-of-migrants-crossing-border-claims-report-627474">73-page report</a> titled “They Fired On Us Like Rain” has sparked global outrage after its publication by the United States-based rights monitor. The researchers at the institute said it is impossible to know the precise number of migrants killed but gave a ballpark figure of over 650.&nbsp;

The report contains the testimony of&nbsp;migrants who say they were shot at using guns and targeted using explosive weapons as well. The Saudi border guards did not even spare women and children and often took sadistic pleasure in asking migrants what limb they wanted to get shot at, the report claims.&nbsp;

HRW interviewed as many as 42 migrants, including 38 Ethiopians who attempted to cross the Yemen-Saudi border between March 2022 and June 2023. The organisation also analysed over 350 videos and photographs posted on social media and other sources.

<h2>Countries’ response to report</h2>

The European Commission, on Tuesday, said it would raise the report’s findings with the Saudi government and the Houthi authorities in Yemen, and welcomed the joint probe plan.

“We welcome the announcement by the government of Ethiopia, specifically, to investigate the whole issue together with the authorities in Saudi Arabia,” said Commission spokesman Peter Stano.&nbsp;

The United States called on its long-time ally Saudi Arabia for “a thorough and transparent investigation” into the accusations. &nbsp;

The United Nations spokesman Stephane Dujarric called the report “very concerning” and noted that the “serious” allegations will be difficult to verify.

Similarly, the French foreign ministry also urged a transparent probe and said it would raise the issue of human rights in Yemen and Saudi Arabia with the Saudi authorities.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Ethiopia will launch a joint investigation with Saudi Arabia into allegations made by a human rights group that hundreds of migrants from their country were killed by Saudi border guards, said the Ethiopian foreign ministry, on Tuesday (August 22).

Ethiopia will launch a joint investigation with Saudi Arabia into allegations made by a human rights group that hundreds of migrants from their country were killed by Saudi border guards, said the Ethiopian foreign ministry, on Tuesday (August 22). This comes a day after a report by Human Rights Watch (HRW) accused the Saudi border guards of mass killings of migrants along the Yemeni border. Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia on the HRW report A day after the HRW report was published, the Ethiopian foreign ministry released a statement and said, “The Government of Ethiopia will promptly investigate the incident in tandem with Saudi Authorities.” It also went on to emphasise the strong relations between the two governments. “It is highly advised to exercise utmost restraint from making unnecessary speculations until the investigation is complete,” the statement added. Meanwhile, a Saudi government source who spoke to AFP called the allegations “unfounded”. “The allegations included in the Human Rights Watch report about Saudi border guards shooting Ethiopians while they were crossing the Saudi-Yemeni border are unfounded and not based on reliable sources,” the anonymous source told the news agency. What was the report about? The 73-page report titled “They Fired On Us Like Rain” has sparked global outrage after its publication by the United States-based rights monitor. The researchers at the institute said it is impossible to know the precise number of migrants killed but gave a ballpark figure of over 650. The report contains the testimony of migrants who say they were shot at using guns and targeted using explosive weapons as well. The Saudi border guards did not even spare women and children and often took sadistic pleasure in asking migrants what limb they wanted to get shot at, the report claims. HRW interviewed as many as 42 migrants, including 38 Ethiopians who attempted to cross the Yemen-Saudi border between March 2022 and June 2023. The organisation also analysed over 350 videos and photographs posted on social media and other sources. Countries’ response to report The European Commission, on Tuesday, said it would raise the report’s findings with the Saudi government and the Houthi authorities in Yemen, and welcomed the joint probe plan. “We welcome the announcement by the government of Ethiopia, specifically, to investigate the whole issue together with the authorities in Saudi Arabia,” said Commission spokesman Peter Stano. The United States called on its long-time ally Saudi Arabia for “a thorough and transparent investigation” into the accusations. The United Nations spokesman Stephane Dujarric called the report “very concerning” and noted that the “serious” allegations will be difficult to verify. Similarly, the French foreign ministry also urged a transparent probe and said it would raise the issue of human rights in Yemen and Saudi Arabia with the Saudi authorities. (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.

Ethiopia to investigate alleged migrant killings 'in tandem' with Saudi Arabia

Leader of Turkish Cypriot Ersin Tatar, on Saturday (August 19), called the road project which has triggered a rare tension with the United Nations peacekeepers in the region, “essential”. Meanwhile, Turkey’s ruling party spokesman called the UN peacekeepers’ response “unacceptable” which blocked the construction in the buffer zone dividing Cyprus.

<h2>Turkey and Turkish Cypriots criticise UN</h2>

The criticism by Turkey comes a day after a scuffle broke out between UN peacekeepers and Turkish Cypriot security personnel when the peacekeepers tried to block construction of a controversial road in Pyla, an ethnically mixed village. The area, the UN says, is a part of the buffer zone and under its jurisdiction.&nbsp;

The area in question is between the internationally recognised Republic of Cyprus in the south and a breakaway Turkish Cypriot statelet in the north. On Saturday, Turkish Cypriot officials accused the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) of overstepping its boundaries.

“It is unfortunate that an attempt was made by UNFICYP to obstruct the development of the road being carried out by a civilian contractor, within the sovereign territory of the TRNC,” said Tatar, in a statement to Reuters, referring to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), a breakaway state recognised only by Ankara. 
 
Similarly, Omer Celik, spokesman for Turkey’s ruling AKP party defended the road project and slammed the UN’s move. “The attitude of the UN peacekeeping force serving in Cyprus...was unacceptable and extremely wrong,” said the Celik, on X (formerly Twitter).&nbsp;

He also said that the UN peacekeepers’ attitude “aimed at pleasing the Greek Cypriot side has damaged the reputation” of the UN mission in Cyprus. Notably, Pyla is the only village where Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots live side by side.

Authorities in TRNC have also defended the project and said it had a “humanitarian objective” and aimed at providing ease of access to TRNC territory for our citizens” living in the village.&nbsp;

Tatar, also the president of the TRNC, told Reuters the road was essential for purely humanitarian grounds to address economic and transportation issues for Turkish Cypriots living in that village.&nbsp;

<h2>UN responds to accusations</h2>

The UN mission on the east Mediterranean island, addressing the incident, said that their peacekeepers were assaulted as they tried to block “unauthorised construction work” near Pyla. The scuffle has since drawn condemnation from the United States, United Kingdom, and the European Union.&nbsp;

The UN has also said that just under half of the 11.5 kilometres falls within the Turkish Cypriot-controlled territory. A spokesperson for UNFICYP told Reuters, that there was no construction underway on Saturday, and peacekeepers remained in the area, which was “firmly” within the buffer zone.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Leader of Turkish Cypriot Ersin Tatar, on Saturday (August 19), called the road project which has triggered a rare tension with the United Nations peacekeepers in the region, “essential”.

Leader of Turkish Cypriot Ersin Tatar, on Saturday (August 19), called the road project which has triggered a rare tension with the United Nations peacekeepers in the region, “essential”. Meanwhile, Turkey’s ruling party spokesman called the UN peacekeepers’ response “unacceptable” which blocked the construction in the buffer zone dividing Cyprus. Turkey and Turkish Cypriots criticise UN The criticism by Turkey comes a day after a scuffle broke out between UN peacekeepers and Turkish Cypriot security personnel when the peacekeepers tried to block construction of a controversial road in Pyla, an ethnically mixed village. The area, the UN says, is a part of the buffer zone and under its jurisdiction. The area in question is between the internationally recognised Republic of Cyprus in the south and a breakaway Turkish Cypriot statelet in the north. On Saturday, Turkish Cypriot officials accused the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) of overstepping its boundaries. “It is unfortunate that an attempt was made by UNFICYP to obstruct the development of the road being carried out by a civilian contractor, within the sovereign territory of the TRNC,” said Tatar, in a statement to Reuters, referring to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), a breakaway state recognised only by Ankara. Similarly, Omer Celik, spokesman for Turkey’s ruling AKP party defended the road project and slammed the UN’s move. “The attitude of the UN peacekeeping force serving in Cyprus...was unacceptable and extremely wrong,” said the Celik, on X (formerly Twitter). He also said that the UN peacekeepers’ attitude “aimed at pleasing the Greek Cypriot side has damaged the reputation” of the UN mission in Cyprus. Notably, Pyla is the only village where Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots live side by side. Authorities in TRNC have also defended the project and said it had a “humanitarian objective” and aimed at providing ease of access to TRNC territory for our citizens” living in the village. Tatar, also the president of the TRNC, told Reuters the road was essential for purely humanitarian grounds to address economic and transportation issues for Turkish Cypriots living in that village. UN responds to accusations The UN mission on the east Mediterranean island, addressing the incident, said that their peacekeepers were assaulted as they tried to block “unauthorised construction work” near Pyla. The scuffle has since drawn condemnation from the United States, United Kingdom, and the European Union. The UN has also said that just under half of the 11.5 kilometres falls within the Turkish Cypriot-controlled territory. A spokesperson for UNFICYP told Reuters, that there was no construction underway on Saturday, and peacekeepers remained in the area, which was “firmly” within the buffer zone. (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.

Turkey slams UN approach to Cyprus row; Turkish Cypriot calls disputed road project ‘essential’

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres has reiterated his call for the deployment of a multinational force in Haiti.&nbsp;

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."

<h2>Deployment of forces</h2>

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 |&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>

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;

<h2>Kenya steps in</h2>

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 |&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>

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;

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.

<h2>Situation in Haiti</h2>

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.

(With inputs from agencies)

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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

During the operation, three of its soldiers were wounded when they came under fire, the force added a few hours later.

The MINUSMA force's departure from Ber comes after the Malian army on Saturday said six soldiers died and 24 fighters from "armed terrorist groups" were killed in a skirmish in the area on Friday.

Former rebels from the Tuareg ethnic group also said the army and the Russian mercenary group Wagner had attacked their forces in Ber on Friday.

"MINUSMA has expedited its withdrawal from #Ber due to the deteriorating security situation in the area &amp; the high risks posed to our #BlueHelmets," the force said Sunday on Twitter, recently rebranded as "X".

"It urges all concerned parties to refrain from any actions that could further complicate the operation."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/niger-regime-leader-open-to-explore-diplomacy-625135">Niger regime leader 'open to explore diplomacy'</a>

The number of troops involved or details on the original departure date were not specified.

In a message posted later Sunday, the forced added: "The MINUSMA convoy that withdrew from #Ber today was attacked twice," adding that three wounded peacekeepers had been evacuated to Timbuktu for treatment.

Attacks against peacekeepers can constitute war crimes under international law, the statement added.

'Numerous incidents'

Mali's army in a statement issued on Sunday evening, said it had taken possession of the Ber camp "after numerous incidents had marred the movement of our units".

Army troops were targeted with sporadic fire as they advanced towards Ber on Sunday, the statement said, without identifying the assailants.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-four-killed-several-injured-after-attack-on-shiite-muslim-shrine-in-iran-reports-625123">At least one killed, several injured after attack on Shiite Muslim shrine in Iran: Reports</a>

The army also reported earlier incidents, while it was on the way to Ber.

It said armed "terrorist" groups had staged "an attempted incursion into the camp and harassing fire" against its troops, as well as other clashes, which left a total of six soldiers dead and four wounded, according to a military press release.

 
For several days now, the Ber area has been the scene of tensions between the army and the Russian Wagner paramilitary group against the CMA, an alliance of Tuareg-dominated groups seeking autonomy or independence from the Malian state and which controls vast areas of the north.

WATCH |&nbsp;Chinese vessel prepares to dock to Colombo

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A CMA official, commenting on social media on Sunday, had called for MINUSMA to "simply leave" Ber and not hand the camp over to the army,

The junta, which has ruled Mali since 2020 has pushed the UN Security Council in June to withdraw MINUSMA by the end of the year.

The UN Security Council in June decided to do so and the first departures happened early this month from the central Ogossagou base.

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During the operation, three of its soldiers were wounded when they came under fire, the force added a few hours later. The MINUSMA force's departure from Ber comes after the Malian army on Saturday said six soldiers died and 24 fighters from "armed terrorist groups" were killed in a skirmish in the area on Friday.

During the operation, three of its soldiers were wounded when they came under fire, the force added a few hours later. The MINUSMA force's departure from Ber comes after the Malian army on Saturday said six soldiers died and 24 fighters from "armed terrorist groups" were killed in a skirmish in the area on Friday. Former rebels from the Tuareg ethnic group also said the army and the Russian mercenary group Wagner had attacked their forces in Ber on Friday. "MINUSMA has expedited its withdrawal from #Ber due to the deteriorating security situation in the area & the high risks posed to our #BlueHelmets," the force said Sunday on Twitter, recently rebranded as "X". "It urges all concerned parties to refrain from any actions that could further complicate the operation." Also Read | Niger regime leader 'open to explore diplomacy' The number of troops involved or details on the original departure date were not specified. In a message posted later Sunday, the forced added: "The MINUSMA convoy that withdrew from #Ber today was attacked twice," adding that three wounded peacekeepers had been evacuated to Timbuktu for treatment. Attacks against peacekeepers can constitute war crimes under international law, the statement added. 'Numerous incidents' Mali's army in a statement issued on Sunday evening, said it had taken possession of the Ber camp "after numerous incidents had marred the movement of our units". Army troops were targeted with sporadic fire as they advanced towards Ber on Sunday, the statement said, without identifying the assailants. Also Read | At least one killed, several injured after attack on Shiite Muslim shrine in Iran: Reports The army also reported earlier incidents, while it was on the way to Ber. It said armed "terrorist" groups had staged "an attempted incursion into the camp and harassing fire" against its troops, as well as other clashes, which left a total of six soldiers dead and four wounded, according to a military press release. For several days now, the Ber area has been the scene of tensions between the army and the Russian Wagner paramilitary group against the CMA, an alliance of Tuareg-dominated groups seeking autonomy or independence from the Malian state and which controls vast areas of the north. WATCH | Chinese vessel prepares to dock to Colombo × A CMA official, commenting on social media on Sunday, had called for MINUSMA to "simply leave" Ber and not hand the camp over to the army, The junta, which has ruled Mali since 2020 has pushed the UN Security Council in June to withdraw MINUSMA by the end of the year. The UN Security Council in June decided to do so and the first departures happened early this month from the central Ogossagou base. 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 peacekeeping mission in Mali quits base early over insecurity

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