25 years ago - A boy was chosen as the Panchen Lama, the second highest ranking figure in Tibetan Buddhism. He disappeared. Now, China says he is a college graduate with a job. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: Why is China hiding the Panchen Lama

The United Nations called Tuesday for an immediate reduction of violence in Afghanistan, saying civilian deaths by both Taliban and Afghanistan's own security forces is on the increase.

In a statement, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, or UNAMA, also expressed concern about the stepped-up attacks and brutality of assaults claimed by the Islamic State group.

A horrific attack last week at a maternity hospital in the capital has not been claimed by any group, but the United States said it bears all the hallmarks of Afghanistan's IS affiliate&nbsp;targeting the country's minority Shiites in a neighborhood of Kabul they have repeatedly attacked in the past.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/afghanistan/seven-killed-in-a-car-bomb-attack-on-spy-agency-in-afghanistan-299392" hreflang="en">Seven killed in a car bomb attack on spy agency in Afghanistan</a>

The Taliban denied involvement in the maternity hospital attack, which killed 24 people, including two infants and several new mothers, calling it vile.

The U.N. Report blamed the Taliban for killing 208 civilians in April, while 172 civilians were killed in the month by the Afghan National Security and Defense Force.

Parties have committed to finding a peaceful solution and should protect the lives of all Afghans and not jeopardize people's hope for an end to the war,&nbsp;said Deborah Lyons, the UNAMA head and the U.N. Secretary- General's Special Representative to Afghanistan. ''Intra-Afghan peace negotiations need to start as soon as possible,''&nbsp;she said.

The UN's call for an end to violence comes as Washington's special peace envoy, Zalmay Khalilzad, began another round of talks with the Taliban to press them to start talking to the newly reconciled Afghan political leadership in Kabul and implement an immediate reduction in violence, said a US&nbsp;State department statement.

Khalilzad, who is the architect of a US-Taliban peace deal signed in February, has been trying to salvage the agreement and jump-start intra-Afghan negotiations between the Taliban and Afghanistan's political leadership.

A power-sharing agreement on Sunday between President Ashraf Ghani and his rival Abdullah Abdullaah brought to an end months of wrangling over who won a deeply controversial presidential election last year.

The agreement raised expectations that the next, critical round of the US-Taliban peace deal, which calls for negotiations between the Taliban and Afghanistan's political leaders, can begin.

The Taliban have said a permanent cease-fire would be one of the first items on the agenda but have been critical of repeated delays in the deals promised prisoner release, which is to be completed before talks can begin.

In Doha, Ambassador Khalilzad will meet with Taliban representatives to discuss implementation of the US-Taliban agreement and press for steps necessary to commence intra-Afghan negotiations, including a significant reduction of violence,&nbsp;said the US&nbsp;State Department statement.

Khalilzad will also visit the Afghan capital, his first visit to Kabul since Secretary of State Mike Pompeo failed to get the squabbling leaders to reach an agreement during a surprise visit in March. A frustrated Pompeo cut $1 billion in US&nbsp;Aid to Afghanistan.

Following the agreement Sunday, Pompeo called Ghani and bemoaned the time lost to their bickering.

The United States remains committed to supporting the desire of the Afghan people and the international community for a political settlement that ends the 40-year conflict and ensures Afghanistan never again serves as a platform for international terrorism,? the State Department statement said.

The agreement provides for the withdrawal of US&nbsp;And NATO troops, but only if the Taliban live up to their end to battle terrorist groups, like the Islamic State affiliate against whom they have waged bitter battles.

The increasingly brutal attacks by the IS would seem to have given urgency to the US. Efforts to get the Taliban into a coordinated battle against IS.

The United Nations called Tuesday for an immediate reduction of violence in Afghanistan, saying civilian deaths by both Taliban and Afghanistan's own security forces is on the increase.

The United Nations called Tuesday for an immediate reduction of violence in Afghanistan, saying civilian deaths by both Taliban and Afghanistan's own security forces is on the increase. In a statement, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, or UNAMA, also expressed concern about the stepped-up attacks and brutality of assaults claimed by the Islamic State group. A horrific attack last week at a maternity hospital in the capital has not been claimed by any group, but the United States said it bears all the hallmarks of Afghanistan's IS affiliate targeting the country's minority Shiites in a neighborhood of Kabul they have repeatedly attacked in the past. Also read: Seven killed in a car bomb attack on spy agency in Afghanistan The Taliban denied involvement in the maternity hospital attack, which killed 24 people, including two infants and several new mothers, calling it vile. The U.N. Report blamed the Taliban for killing 208 civilians in April, while 172 civilians were killed in the month by the Afghan National Security and Defense Force. Parties have committed to finding a peaceful solution and should protect the lives of all Afghans and not jeopardize people's hope for an end to the war, said Deborah Lyons, the UNAMA head and the U.N. Secretary- General's Special Representative to Afghanistan. ''Intra-Afghan peace negotiations need to start as soon as possible,'' she said. The UN's call for an end to violence comes as Washington's special peace envoy, Zalmay Khalilzad, began another round of talks with the Taliban to press them to start talking to the newly reconciled Afghan political leadership in Kabul and implement an immediate reduction in violence, said a US State department statement. Khalilzad, who is the architect of a US-Taliban peace deal signed in February, has been trying to salvage the agreement and jump-start intra-Afghan negotiations between the Taliban and Afghanistan's political leadership. A power-sharing agreement on Sunday between President Ashraf Ghani and his rival Abdullah Abdullaah brought to an end months of wrangling over who won a deeply controversial presidential election last year. The agreement raised expectations that the next, critical round of the US-Taliban peace deal, which calls for negotiations between the Taliban and Afghanistan's political leaders, can begin. The Taliban have said a permanent cease-fire would be one of the first items on the agenda but have been critical of repeated delays in the deals promised prisoner release, which is to be completed before talks can begin. In Doha, Ambassador Khalilzad will meet with Taliban representatives to discuss implementation of the US-Taliban agreement and press for steps necessary to commence intra-Afghan negotiations, including a significant reduction of violence, said the US State Department statement. Khalilzad will also visit the Afghan capital, his first visit to Kabul since Secretary of State Mike Pompeo failed to get the squabbling leaders to reach an agreement during a surprise visit in March. A frustrated Pompeo cut $1 billion in US Aid to Afghanistan. Following the agreement Sunday, Pompeo called Ghani and bemoaned the time lost to their bickering. The United States remains committed to supporting the desire of the Afghan people and the international community for a political settlement that ends the 40-year conflict and ensures Afghanistan never again serves as a platform for international terrorism,? the State Department statement said. The agreement provides for the withdrawal of US And NATO troops, but only if the Taliban live up to their end to battle terrorist groups, like the Islamic State affiliate against whom they have waged bitter battles. The increasingly brutal attacks by the IS would seem to have given urgency to the US. Efforts to get the Taliban into a coordinated battle against IS.

Rise in civilian deaths by Taliban and Afghan forces, says UN

United Nations health experts have said that coronavirus chaos will leave a bizarre effect on global mental health. Death and spread of the virus have forced everyone into isolation.

United Nations health experts have said that coronavirus chaos will leave a bizarre effect on global mental health. Death and spread of the virus have forced everyone into isolation. Poverty and anxiety have surged due to the pandemic. All of these have led to chaotic mental health across the globe. Also read: UK researchers to study genes of COVID-19 patients to try to crack morbidity Devora Kestel, director of the World Health Organization's (WHO) mental health department has said: "The isolation, the fear, the uncertainty, the economic turmoil - they all cause or could cause psychological distress." Also read: Merkel says have 'hard evidence' on Russian hackers targeting her While presenting the UN report and guideline on mental health and coronavirus, Kestel said that the world will witness a spike in cases and severity of mental illness around the world. She also said that the governments should take this seriously and put the issue "front and centre" pf their COVID responses. At a briefing, she told the reporters: "The mental health and wellbeing of whole societies have been severely impacted by this crisis and are a priority to be addressed urgently." Coronavirus' impact on mental health can already be seen after several cases of children in anxiety and an increase in cases of depression and anxiety have been recorded. Domestic violence and gender discrimination have seen a drastic rise. Health workers have reported an increase in psychological support. Reuters last week reported from interviews with doctors and nurses in the United States who said either they or their colleagues had experienced a combination of panic, anxiety, grief, numbness, irritability, insomnia and nightmares. Economic problems, losing or at the risk of losing livelihood and income, and misinformation and rumours during the pandemic have made people anxious about their future. People have distressed due to instant health impacts, isolation or even by the fear of dying or being infected. It outlined action points for policy-makers to aim "to reduce immense suffering among hundreds of millions of people and mitigate long-term social and economic costs to society". (With Inputs from Reuters)

Coronavirus may leave a permanent scar on global mental health: UN

With the governments imposing large-scale restrictions on economic activities to halt the spread of coronavirus, the global economy has come to a virtual standstill. A report by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs has projected that the world economy is set to lose nearly $8.5 trillion over the next 2 years.

UN Predicts slowing down of India’s growth

UN report says that lockdown around the world has affected close to 2 BN workers. UN body has warned that many of them are left to choose rising infection and putting food on a table. Watch report.

UN: Informal workers close to starvation: 2 BN workers affected by COVID-19 lockdown

United Nations has warned the rise in risks to human trafficking victims as the chaos due to the pandemic will make the people prone to exploitation. UN's Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) issued this warning on Wednesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-discover-coronavirus-mutation-that-can-make-it-more-infectious-297160" hreflang="en">Scientists discover coronavirus mutation that can make it more 'infectious'</a>&nbsp;

According to the latest UNODC analysis, some of the trafficking victims are stuck and are unable to go home due to sealed borders. These victims also risk catching the virus. Some of them are facing delays in legal proceedings, further abuse or neglect by the captors.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-professors-murder-in-us-fuels-conspiracy-theories-297153" hreflang="en">Chinese professor's murder in US fuels conspiracy theories</a>

More children are being forced on streets as schools have shut their provision of shelter and nourishment, forcing them onto streets to find food and income.&nbsp;

UNODC also issued a warning against traffickers saying that they “may become more active and prey on people who are even more vulnerable than before because they have lost their source of income due to measures to control the virus.”

“With COVID-19 restricting movement, diverting law enforcement resources, and reducing social and public services, human trafficking victims have even less chance of escape and finding help,” said UNODC Executive Director Ghada Waly.

Waly has urged countries to provide shelters and open hotlines and enable anti-trafficking units to continue doing their operations.&nbsp;

Coronavirus chaos has led to a steep rise in gender-based domestic violence, Waly said.

United Nations has warned the rise in risks to human trafficking victims as the chaos due to the pandemic will make the people prone to exploitation. UN's Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) issued this warning on Wednesday.

United Nations has warned the rise in risks to human trafficking victims as the chaos due to the pandemic will make the people prone to exploitation. UN's Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) issued this warning on Wednesday. Also read: Scientists discover coronavirus mutation that can make it more 'infectious' According to the latest UNODC analysis, some of the trafficking victims are stuck and are unable to go home due to sealed borders. These victims also risk catching the virus. Some of them are facing delays in legal proceedings, further abuse or neglect by the captors. Also read: Chinese professor's murder in US fuels conspiracy theories More children are being forced on streets as schools have shut their provision of shelter and nourishment, forcing them onto streets to find food and income. UNODC also issued a warning against traffickers saying that they “may become more active and prey on people who are even more vulnerable than before because they have lost their source of income due to measures to control the virus.” “With COVID-19 restricting movement, diverting law enforcement resources, and reducing social and public services, human trafficking victims have even less chance of escape and finding help,” said UNODC Executive Director Ghada Waly. Waly has urged countries to provide shelters and open hotlines and enable anti-trafficking units to continue doing their operations. Coronavirus chaos has led to a steep rise in gender-based domestic violence, Waly said.

United Nations warns of increased risks for trafficking victims due to pandemic

In a series of social media speculations, Kim Jong-un’s death has twittered across platforms over the last couple of weeks.

The 36-year-old North Korean Supreme Leader reportedly underwent a heart surgery recently, which may have gone awry.

Even amid all these rumours, the North Korean administration has remained mum on such claims, with no official denial or confirmation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/satellite-images-of-luxury-yachts-reveal-kim-jong-un-s-current-location-295822" hreflang="en">Satellite images of luxury yachts reveal Kim Jong Un 's current location</a>

A confirmation did come, but from South Korea. Kim Jong-un is “healthy and well”, it claimed. The internet refused to believe this.

North Korea’s most important holiday - the Day of the Sun falls on April 15, in honour of the country’s founding father Kim II Sung. Kim was a no-show at this event, which is easily the country’s most auspicious.

KCNA, North Korea’s state run news outlet reported that “senior officials” had undertaken the visit to Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, where Kim II Sung and his son Kim Jong II are on display.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/gravitas-kim-jong-un-dead-or-alive-295177/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Analysts believe that this absence marks an unprecedented deviation from custom, for he has never skipped such meetings since he took charge of the country.

Recently, the United Nations Secretary General Antonia Guterres claimed that the had “no information” about Kim’s health.

“We have no information about the situation of Kim Jong Un,” Guterres said at a virtual press briefing.

A recent report showed Kim’s train parked outside his compound near the country’s east coast.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/trump-has-a-very-good-idea-about-kim-jong-uns-status-but-he-wont-talk-about-it-295191" hreflang="en">Trump has 'a very good idea' about Kim Jong Un's status. But he won't talk about it</a>

Earlier, the United States President Donald Trump had claimed to have a “very good idea” about Kim’s whereabouts but also revealed that he was not at liberty to reveal the details.

“I can’t tell you exactly - yes, I do have a very good idea but I can’t talk about it now. I just wish him well,” Trump told reporters at a White House news conference.

In 2008, Kim Jong II had missed North Korea’s 60th anniversary parade. It later turned out that he had experienced a stroke. His health then continued to deteriorate until his death in 2011.

In 2014, Kim Jong-un had disappeared which raised questions about his health. A few days later, it turned out that he a cyst removed from his ankle.

In a series of social media speculations, Kim Jong-un’s death has twittered across platforms over the last couple of weeks. The 36-year-old North Korean Supreme Leader reportedly underwent a heart surgery recently, which may have gone awry.

In a series of social media speculations, Kim Jong-un’s death has twittered across platforms over the last couple of weeks. The 36-year-old North Korean Supreme Leader reportedly underwent a heart surgery recently, which may have gone awry. Even amid all these rumours, the North Korean administration has remained mum on such claims, with no official denial or confirmation. Also read: Satellite images of luxury yachts reveal Kim Jong Un 's current location A confirmation did come, but from South Korea. Kim Jong-un is “healthy and well”, it claimed. The internet refused to believe this. North Korea’s most important holiday - the Day of the Sun falls on April 15, in honour of the country’s founding father Kim II Sung. Kim was a no-show at this event, which is easily the country’s most auspicious. KCNA, North Korea’s state run news outlet reported that “senior officials” had undertaken the visit to Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, where Kim II Sung and his son Kim Jong II are on display. Analysts believe that this absence marks an unprecedented deviation from custom, for he has never skipped such meetings since he took charge of the country. Recently, the United Nations Secretary General Antonia Guterres claimed that the had “no information” about Kim’s health. “We have no information about the situation of Kim Jong Un,” Guterres said at a virtual press briefing. A recent report showed Kim’s train parked outside his compound near the country’s east coast. Also read: Trump has 'a very good idea' about Kim Jong Un's status. But he won't talk about it Earlier, the United States President Donald Trump had claimed to have a “very good idea” about Kim’s whereabouts but also revealed that he was not at liberty to reveal the details. “I can’t tell you exactly - yes, I do have a very good idea but I can’t talk about it now. I just wish him well,” Trump told reporters at a White House news conference. In 2008, Kim Jong II had missed North Korea’s 60th anniversary parade. It later turned out that he had experienced a stroke. His health then continued to deteriorate until his death in 2011. In 2014, Kim Jong-un had disappeared which raised questions about his health. A few days later, it turned out that he a cyst removed from his ankle.

As rumours of Kim Jong-un's demise intensify, UN denies having information

Speaking exclusively to WION the new president of the United Nations Security Council Estonia has called for more transparency and information on COVID crisis even as the country has sought cooperation among members of the core UN body.

WION Exclusive: New UNSC president calls for transparency and information on Covid

Two boats carrying hundreds of Rohingya refugees have been stranded outside of Bangladesh for the last few weeks.

International authorities are now urging Bangladesh government to allow entry of the boats via its ports which have been shut in the face of COVID-19.

Urgent care required

It is feared that most of these people would now not require food and water, but also urgent medical care.

According to The Guardian, over 500 people including children are onboard the boats, which were recently spotted in the Bay of Bengal.

Last week, Abdul Momen, the Foreign Minister of Bangladesh refused to allow entry of boats into the country and announced, “Bangladesh is always asked to take care of the responsibility of other countries.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/south-asia/nearly-400-rohingya-rescued-by-bangladesh-coast-guard-from-boat-over-30-dead-293154" hreflang="en">Nearly 400 Rohingya rescued by Bangladesh coast guard from boat; over 30 dead</a>

Earlier in April, another boat was rescued by Bangladesh. According to reports, the boat was stranded in the ocean for over two months and was heading to Malaysia. 
 
The charity responsible for treating them - Médecins Sans Frontières claimed that the boat had 400 survivors, mostly youngsters aged between 12 and 20. On that boat alone, over 70 had died.

According to MSF, most of the survivors were on the verge of death when they were rescued.

This particular boat was trying to escape the horrid living conditions in Cox Bazar, Bangladesh where Rohingya have been placed in overcrowded camps.

<h6><img alt="pp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7ab3f879-b288-43ff-b8b1-81e3f77b0399" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-10_0.jpg" /> 
Rohingya refugees arrive on boats after crossing the Naf river from Myanmar into Bangladesh in Whaikhyang on October 9, 2017 | AFP 
 
&nbsp;</h6>

More boats at bay?

As of now, only two boats have been spotted by authorities, but they fear that many more such boats could be drifting in the ocean.

Michelle Bachelet, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights recently wrote to Momen, and referred to the situation as “a human tragedy of terrible proportions”.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-icj-tells-myanmar-to-end-rohingya-genocide-276215/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“I appeal to you in the strongest terms to open your ports and allow the boats to land… The reportedly more than 500 men, women and children aboard these boats have been at sea for an extended period of time, and we understand that they require urgent rescue, food, medical care and other necessary humanitarian assistance”, she added.

The boat, like many others was turned away by Malaysia due to the fears triggered by the coronavirus pandemic.

Momen further retorted by claiming that Bangladesh could not rescue any more people, adding that the country had “no room to shelter any foreign people or refugees”.

Over 700,000 Rohingya fled from Myanmar where an ethnic cleansing began in August 2017.

Two boats carrying hundreds of Rohingya refugees have been stranded outside of Bangladesh for the last few weeks. International authorities are now urging Bangladesh government to allow entry of the boats via its ports which have been shut in the face of COVID-19.

Two boats carrying hundreds of Rohingya refugees have been stranded outside of Bangladesh for the last few weeks. International authorities are now urging Bangladesh government to allow entry of the boats via its ports which have been shut in the face of COVID-19. Urgent care required It is feared that most of these people would now not require food and water, but also urgent medical care. According to The Guardian, over 500 people including children are onboard the boats, which were recently spotted in the Bay of Bengal. Last week, Abdul Momen, the Foreign Minister of Bangladesh refused to allow entry of boats into the country and announced, “Bangladesh is always asked to take care of the responsibility of other countries.” Also read: Nearly 400 Rohingya rescued by Bangladesh coast guard from boat; over 30 dead Earlier in April, another boat was rescued by Bangladesh. According to reports, the boat was stranded in the ocean for over two months and was heading to Malaysia. The charity responsible for treating them - Médecins Sans Frontières claimed that the boat had 400 survivors, mostly youngsters aged between 12 and 20. On that boat alone, over 70 had died. According to MSF, most of the survivors were on the verge of death when they were rescued. This particular boat was trying to escape the horrid living conditions in Cox Bazar, Bangladesh where Rohingya have been placed in overcrowded camps. Rohingya refugees arrive on boats after crossing the Naf river from Myanmar into Bangladesh in Whaikhyang on October 9, 2017 | AFP More boats at bay? As of now, only two boats have been spotted by authorities, but they fear that many more such boats could be drifting in the ocean. Michelle Bachelet, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights recently wrote to Momen, and referred to the situation as “a human tragedy of terrible proportions”. “I appeal to you in the strongest terms to open your ports and allow the boats to land… The reportedly more than 500 men, women and children aboard these boats have been at sea for an extended period of time, and we understand that they require urgent rescue, food, medical care and other necessary humanitarian assistance”, she added. The boat, like many others was turned away by Malaysia due to the fears triggered by the coronavirus pandemic. Momen further retorted by claiming that Bangladesh could not rescue any more people, adding that the country had “no room to shelter any foreign people or refugees”. Over 700,000 Rohingya fled from Myanmar where an ethnic cleansing began in August 2017.

UN urges Bangladesh to rescue two stranded boats carrying Rohingya refugees

The rise in domestic violence amid lockdown due to COVID-19 has been reported in different countries. United Nations' Secretary General Antonio Guterres urged all the nations across the globe to end gender violence rises amid the lockdown due to COVID-19 outbreak.

Surge in domestic violence cases during coronavirus crisis

United Nations' food relief agency has warned that the&nbsp;world is at risk of widespread famines "of biblical proportions" caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

More than 30 countries in the developing world could experience widespread famine, and in 10 of those countries there are already more than 1 million people on the brink of starvation, said David Beasley, executive director of the World Food Programme (WFP).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-covid-19-can-push-half-a-billion-people-into-poverty-291463">How COVID-19 can push half a billion people into poverty?</a>

He also said that ''with a short time to act before hundreds of millions starve, urgent action is needed to avoid a catastrophe''.

According to the fourth annual&nbsp;Global Report on Food Crisis,&nbsp;the number suffering from hunger could go from 135 million to more than 250 million.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-benefit-higher-death-rate-for-malaria-drug-in-coronavirus-study-293900" hreflang="en">No benefit, higher death rate for malaria drug in coronavirus study</a>

The countries highlighted in this report include,&nbsp;Yemen, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Afghanistan, Venezuela, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Nigeria and Haiti.

Addressing the UN Security Council during a video conference, Beasley said ''we could be facing multiple famines of biblical proportions within a short few months," he said. "The truth is we do not have time on our side."

In a call to action, he added: "I do believe that with our expertise and our partnerships, we can bring together the teams and the programmes necessary to make certain the Covid-19 pandemic does not become a human and food crisis catastrophe."

The World Food Programme claimed&nbsp;that those most at risk are in 10 countries affected by conflict, economic crisis and climate change.

United Nations' food relief agency has warned that the world is at risk of widespread famines "of biblical proportions" caused by the coronavirus pandemic. More than 30 countries in the developing world could experience widespread famine, and in 10 of those countries there are already more than 1 million people on the brink of starvation, said David Beasley, executive director of the World Food Programme (WFP).

United Nations' food relief agency has warned that the world is at risk of widespread famines "of biblical proportions" caused by the coronavirus pandemic. More than 30 countries in the developing world could experience widespread famine, and in 10 of those countries there are already more than 1 million people on the brink of starvation, said David Beasley, executive director of the World Food Programme (WFP). Also read: How COVID-19 can push half a billion people into poverty? He also said that ''with a short time to act before hundreds of millions starve, urgent action is needed to avoid a catastrophe''. According to the fourth annual Global Report on Food Crisis, the number suffering from hunger could go from 135 million to more than 250 million. Also read: No benefit, higher death rate for malaria drug in coronavirus study The countries highlighted in this report include, Yemen, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Afghanistan, Venezuela, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Nigeria and Haiti. Addressing the UN Security Council during a video conference, Beasley said ''we could be facing multiple famines of biblical proportions within a short few months," he said. "The truth is we do not have time on our side." In a call to action, he added: "I do believe that with our expertise and our partnerships, we can bring together the teams and the programmes necessary to make certain the Covid-19 pandemic does not become a human and food crisis catastrophe." The World Food Programme claimed that those most at risk are in 10 countries affected by conflict, economic crisis and climate change.

World at risk of 'biblical famines' due to COVID-19, says UN

United Nations have warned the world of famines in biblical proportions because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Watch report.

Coronavirus Pandemic: UN warns of biblical famines

In an exclusive interview to WION's Palki Sharma- Finland's Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto pushed for alternatives to wet markets - calling on the WHO and the UN to come up with a plan to avoid future pandemics. Take a look.

Gravitas Exclusive: Finland's Foreign Minister on WION

It is "not the time to reduce the resources for the operations of the World Health Organization or any other humanitarian organization in the fight against the virus," United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres said Tuesday.&nbsp;

"It is my belief that the World Health Organization must be supported, as it is absolutely critical to the world's efforts to win the war against COVID-19," he said, after US President Donald Trump announced earlier that his country would cut off funding to the UN health body for mishandling the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-announces-funding-halt-to-world-health-organisation-292533" hreflang="en">Trump announces funding halt to World Health Organisation</a>

Trump told a press conference he was instructing his administration to halt funding while "a review is conducted to assess the World Health Organization's role in severely mismanaging and covering up the spread of the coronavirus."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-us-new-york-city-alone-accounts-for-over-10000-coronavirus-deaths-292535" hreflang="en">In US, New York City alone accounts for over 10,000 coronavirus deaths</a>

According to Trump, the WHO prevented transparency over the outbreak and the United States -- the UN body's biggest funder which provided $400 million last year -- will now "discuss what we do with all that money that goes to the WHO."

"With the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have deep concerns whether America's generosity has been put to the best use possible."

The United States recorded 2,228 deaths related to the coronavirus pandemic over the past 24 hours, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University.

It is "not the time to reduce the resources for the operations of the World Health Organization or any other humanitarian organization in the fight against the virus," United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres said Tuesday.

It is "not the time to reduce the resources for the operations of the World Health Organization or any other humanitarian organization in the fight against the virus," United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres said Tuesday. "It is my belief that the World Health Organization must be supported, as it is absolutely critical to the world's efforts to win the war against COVID-19," he said, after US President Donald Trump announced earlier that his country would cut off funding to the UN health body for mishandling the coronavirus pandemic. Also read: Trump announces funding halt to World Health Organisation Trump told a press conference he was instructing his administration to halt funding while "a review is conducted to assess the World Health Organization's role in severely mismanaging and covering up the spread of the coronavirus." Also read: In US, New York City alone accounts for over 10,000 coronavirus deaths According to Trump, the WHO prevented transparency over the outbreak and the United States -- the UN body's biggest funder which provided $400 million last year -- will now "discuss what we do with all that money that goes to the WHO." "With the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have deep concerns whether America's generosity has been put to the best use possible." The United States recorded 2,228 deaths related to the coronavirus pandemic over the past 24 hours, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University.

'Not the time to reduce the resources' of WHO: UN chief

United Nations' Secretary General Antonio Guterres urges all the nations across the globe to end gender violence rises amid the lockdown due to COVID-19 outbreak.

U.N Secretary General urge nations to end domestic violence rises amid lockdown

China wants to play a big role in the United Nations. Beijing has stepped up its contributions. Chinese officials are now securing top jobs at UN agencies. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how China is trying to secure more power at the UN, one post at a time.

Gravitas: Wuhan Coronavirus: How China is trying to control the UN

In March, China blocked an attempt to discuss the Coronavirus outbreak at the Security Council. China held the Presidency of the council last month. Now, Dominican Republic has assumed the Presidency. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how the UNSC could discuss the outbreak now.

Gravitas: Trouble for China? UN Security Council could take up coronavirus outbreak

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres requested countries across the world to lay down their weapons in support of the bigger battle against COVID-19. He called for an immediate global ceasefire in all corners of the world. He said, "It is time to put the armed conflict on lockdown and focus together on the true fight of our lives.”

UN Chief calls for Global ceasefire amid coronavirus outbreak: Focus on true fight of lives

Pressure has been mounting on Iran to release all of its prisoners amid fears that coronavirus spread in its jail could go unchecked. The United Nations has now asked Tehran to temporarily free inmates especially those who are political prisoners. Watch report:

WION Dispatch: Iran releases 70,000 inmates amid coronavirus outbreak

A study by the United Nations has found that nine out of ten people in the world are biased against women. This report tells you more.

UN Study: 90% of people are biased against women | Gravitas

India's Foreign Minister Jaishankar calls UNHRC for criticism over the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, said that its director was wrong earlier too and one must look at the previous UN record to handle it.

Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar to UNHRC: No country in the world says everybody is welcome

Recently, a chilling report of the United Nations has emerged after studying on 80% of the world population that 9 out of 10 people biased against women. This report was released ahead of the International Women's Day.

UN study reveals that 9 out of 10 people biased against women

India defended its contentious citizenship law as an internal issue Tuesday as the UN rights chief sought to join efforts challenging the legislation in the country's highest court.

The law, which makes it easier for religious minorities from three neighbouring countries to get Indian citizenship but not if they are Muslim, was the spark for last week's deadly riots in New Delhi.&nbsp;

More than 40 people were killed and hundreds wounded in the worst sectarian violence to rock the capital in decades.&nbsp;

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-riots-shahrukh-who-pointed-gun-at-constable-nabbed-in-uttar-pradesh-283924"> Delhi riots: Shahrukh who pointed gun at constable nabbed in Uttar Pradesh</a>

That followed street demonstrations that have occasionally turned deadly across the Hindu-majority country since the law was approved by parliament in December.

"The Citizenship Amendment Act is an internal matter of India and concerns the sovereign right of the Indian parliament to make laws," foreign ministry spokesman Raveesh Kumar said.

"We strongly believe that no foreign party has any locus standi on issues pertaining to India's sovereignty."

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/citizenship-of-any-muslim-or-minority-will-not-be-taken-away-through-caa-amit-shah-reiterates-in-odisha-283349">Citizenship of any Muslim or minority will not be taken away through CAA: Amit Shah reiterates in Odisha</a>

Dozens of petitions filed in the Supreme Court, including by social rights activists and political parties, are challenging the law's constitutionality.&nbsp;

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet informed India on Monday of its application to be a third party in one petition brought by a former civil servant, Kumar said.

The court is hearing all the petitions together.

Kumar said the government was confident in the legality of the law, which was approved by parliament in December.&nbsp;

The UN application came as the government Tuesday summoned the Iranian ambassador over tweets by Foreign Minister Javad Zarif condemning the "wave of organized violence against Indian Muslims" in the Delhi riots.

Kumar said a "strong protest was lodged against the unwarranted remarks", adding that they were "not acceptable".

India defended its contentious citizenship law as an internal issue Tuesday as the UN rights chief sought to join efforts challenging the legislation in the country's highest court.

India defended its contentious citizenship law as an internal issue Tuesday as the UN rights chief sought to join efforts challenging the legislation in the country's highest court. The law, which makes it easier for religious minorities from three neighbouring countries to get Indian citizenship but not if they are Muslim, was the spark for last week's deadly riots in New Delhi. More than 40 people were killed and hundreds wounded in the worst sectarian violence to rock the capital in decades. Also read: Delhi riots: Shahrukh who pointed gun at constable nabbed in Uttar Pradesh That followed street demonstrations that have occasionally turned deadly across the Hindu-majority country since the law was approved by parliament in December. "The Citizenship Amendment Act is an internal matter of India and concerns the sovereign right of the Indian parliament to make laws," foreign ministry spokesman Raveesh Kumar said. "We strongly believe that no foreign party has any locus standi on issues pertaining to India's sovereignty." Also see: Citizenship of any Muslim or minority will not be taken away through CAA: Amit Shah reiterates in Odisha Dozens of petitions filed in the Supreme Court, including by social rights activists and political parties, are challenging the law's constitutionality. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet informed India on Monday of its application to be a third party in one petition brought by a former civil servant, Kumar said. The court is hearing all the petitions together. Kumar said the government was confident in the legality of the law, which was approved by parliament in December. The UN application came as the government Tuesday summoned the Iranian ambassador over tweets by Foreign Minister Javad Zarif condemning the "wave of organized violence against Indian Muslims" in the Delhi riots. Kumar said a "strong protest was lodged against the unwarranted remarks", adding that they were "not acceptable".

India defends citizenship law as UN rights Chief joins legal challenge

The Kremlin on Tuesday rejected allegations by the United Nations that Russia may have committed war crimes in Syria last year, saying the United Nations&nbsp;investigators are in no position to know what is happening on the ground.

Also read: Syria: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-white-helmets-accuse-russia-of-war-crimes-in-aleppo-10206">White Helmets accuse Russia of 'war crimes' in Aleppo</a>

"We strongly reject these claims," said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. "It's obvious that one committee can not have reliable information about what is happening on the ground."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-withdraws-from-international-criminal-court-8921">Russia withdraws from International Criminal Court</a>

A report by a UN&nbsp;commission found that Russia,&nbsp;the Syrian government's main ally against rebels and militants, conducted airstrikes on a popular market and a camp for displaced people that killed dozens of civilians in July and August.

The Kremlin on Tuesday rejected allegations by the United Nations that Russia may have committed war crimes in Syria last year, saying the United Nations investigators are in no position to know what is happening on the ground.

The Kremlin on Tuesday rejected allegations by the United Nations that Russia may have committed war crimes in Syria last year, saying the United Nations investigators are in no position to know what is happening on the ground. Also read: Syria: White Helmets accuse Russia of 'war crimes' in Aleppo "We strongly reject these claims," said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. "It's obvious that one committee can not have reliable information about what is happening on the ground." Also read: Russia withdraws from International Criminal Court A report by a UN commission found that Russia, the Syrian government's main ally against rebels and militants, conducted airstrikes on a popular market and a camp for displaced people that killed dozens of civilians in July and August.

Kremlin 'strongly rejects' UN allegations that Russia committed war crimes in Syria in 2019

India has exercised its 'Right To Reply' at the United Nations. This comes in response to Pakistan's statement during the 43rd session of the UN Human Right's Council

India Exercises 'Right To Reply' at the UN

People from the Indian diaspora on Monday gathered outside UN office in Holborn here to register their protest against the injustices done to Hindu minor girl Mehek Kumari.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-24-year-old-woman-allegedly-abducted-forcibly-converted-to-islam-277085">Pakistan: 24-year-old woman allegedly abducted, forcibly converted to Islam</a>

A petition was delivered to the UN. Mehak Kumari was recently forcibly converted and married to a Muslim man in Pakistan's Sindh province. The protestors called Pakistan as `abuser of human rights` and demanded justice for Mehak Kumari. Mehak was abducted by a middle-aged man, Ali Raza, from the Jacobabad district of Sindh province on January 15.

The girl said that she was forced to accept Islam causing a widespread furore among the Islamic fanatics. Some Pakistani clerics want the minor girl killed after she retracted her previous statement in the court, where she said that she had accepted Islam of her own free will.

The clerics blamed 14-year old Mehak of murtad, or an act of apostasy, and are demanding death punishment, accusing her of insulting Islam. Meanwhile, the court which is yet to announce the verdict has sent Mehak Kumari to a local Dar-ul-Aman in Larkana district of Sindh for 11 days.The abduction and forceful conversion of Hindu and Christian girls are widespread in Pakistan.

Such incidents have sparked widespread criticism as many victim families are forced to migrate to foreign countries, including India. In 1947, non-Muslims comprised 23 per cent of Pakistan`s population. However, in 2011, the numbers came down to 3.7 per cent.

People from the Indian diaspora on Monday gathered outside UN office in Holborn here to register their protest against the injustices done to Hindu minor girl Mehek Kumari.

People from the Indian diaspora on Monday gathered outside UN office in Holborn here to register their protest against the injustices done to Hindu minor girl Mehek Kumari. Also read: Pakistan: 24-year-old woman allegedly abducted, forcibly converted to Islam A petition was delivered to the UN. Mehak Kumari was recently forcibly converted and married to a Muslim man in Pakistan's Sindh province. The protestors called Pakistan as `abuser of human rights` and demanded justice for Mehak Kumari. Mehak was abducted by a middle-aged man, Ali Raza, from the Jacobabad district of Sindh province on January 15. The girl said that she was forced to accept Islam causing a widespread furore among the Islamic fanatics. Some Pakistani clerics want the minor girl killed after she retracted her previous statement in the court, where she said that she had accepted Islam of her own free will. The clerics blamed 14-year old Mehak of murtad, or an act of apostasy, and are demanding death punishment, accusing her of insulting Islam. Meanwhile, the court which is yet to announce the verdict has sent Mehak Kumari to a local Dar-ul-Aman in Larkana district of Sindh for 11 days.The abduction and forceful conversion of Hindu and Christian girls are widespread in Pakistan. Such incidents have sparked widespread criticism as many victim families are forced to migrate to foreign countries, including India. In 1947, non-Muslims comprised 23 per cent of Pakistan`s population. However, in 2011, the numbers came down to 3.7 per cent.

Indian diaspora protest outside UN office against injustices done to Hindu minor Mehek Kumari

Nearly three million people in Niger, over half of whom are children, are suffering at the hands of various natural and man-made crises and are in need of humanitarian aid, the United Nations said on Wednesday.

In a statement, UNICEF cited "the risks posed by insecurity, malnutrition, recurrent disease epidemics and outbreaks, cyclical floods, droughts and displacement" as the causes behind a crisis threatening 2.9 million people, including 1.6 million children.

"Insecurity is spreading at a rapid pace in the central Sahel region," said Felicite Tchibindat, UNICEF's regional nutrition advisor, following a visit to the conflict-affected region of Diffa.

"Women and children are bearing the brunt of the violence.&nbsp;

"In already fragile host communities, the burden of forced displacement increases the vulnerability of children and communities and significantly affects their health, protection, nutrition and education."

Since 2015, Niger has struggled against a wave of jihadist attacks near the borders with Mali and Burkina Faso in the west, exacerbating needs in Tillaberi and Tahoua regions, where nearly 78,000 people have been displaced.

"Attacks against civilians in the Lake Chad region prevented 263,000 people in Diffa from returning to their homes," said the statement, adding that deteriorating security on the border with Nigeria has also resulted in the movement of tens of thousands of people.

Niger is home to nearly 450,000 refugees &nbsp;-- Nigerians, Malians and Burkinabe -- and internally displaced people, trying to escape jihadist violence or armed gangs, according to the UN.&nbsp;

Some refugees and displaced persons live in the midst of an already very poor population.

"In a context of constrained resources and limited social services, the communities that host displaced populations are showing extraordinary resilience and sharing the little they have," said Tchibindat.

"This truly is a great example that Nigeriens are showing to world."

On Monday, 15 women and five children were trampled to death in a stampede for food and money for refugees in the southeast of the country.

According to UN figures, jihadist attacks in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger left around 4,000 dead last year.

Nearly three million people in Niger, over half of whom are children, are suffering at the hands of various natural and man-made crises and are in need of humanitarian aid, the United Nations said on Wednesday.

Nearly three million people in Niger, over half of whom are children, are suffering at the hands of various natural and man-made crises and are in need of humanitarian aid, the United Nations said on Wednesday. In a statement, UNICEF cited "the risks posed by insecurity, malnutrition, recurrent disease epidemics and outbreaks, cyclical floods, droughts and displacement" as the causes behind a crisis threatening 2.9 million people, including 1.6 million children. "Insecurity is spreading at a rapid pace in the central Sahel region," said Felicite Tchibindat, UNICEF's regional nutrition advisor, following a visit to the conflict-affected region of Diffa. "Women and children are bearing the brunt of the violence. "In already fragile host communities, the burden of forced displacement increases the vulnerability of children and communities and significantly affects their health, protection, nutrition and education." Since 2015, Niger has struggled against a wave of jihadist attacks near the borders with Mali and Burkina Faso in the west, exacerbating needs in Tillaberi and Tahoua regions, where nearly 78,000 people have been displaced. "Attacks against civilians in the Lake Chad region prevented 263,000 people in Diffa from returning to their homes," said the statement, adding that deteriorating security on the border with Nigeria has also resulted in the movement of tens of thousands of people. Niger is home to nearly 450,000 refugees -- Nigerians, Malians and Burkinabe -- and internally displaced people, trying to escape jihadist violence or armed gangs, according to the UN. Some refugees and displaced persons live in the midst of an already very poor population. "In a context of constrained resources and limited social services, the communities that host displaced populations are showing extraordinary resilience and sharing the little they have," said Tchibindat. "This truly is a great example that Nigeriens are showing to world." On Monday, 15 women and five children were trampled to death in a stampede for food and money for refugees in the southeast of the country. According to UN figures, jihadist attacks in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger left around 4,000 dead last year.

Nearly three million in need of aid in Niger, UN says

Sri Lanka Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, who oversaw a brutal end to a decades-long conflict with Tamil separatists, said Wednesday the country was withdrawing from a United Nations resolution investigating alleged war crimes.

Rajapaksa was president when Sri Lankan troops defeated Tamil Tiger guerrillas in 2009, but rights groups accused the army of killing at least 40,000 Tamil civilians in the final months of the conflict.

His brother Gotabaya, who is now president, was defence secretary at the time.

Premier Mahinda said the government would no longer abide by a 2015 resolution calling for accountability for alleged excesses carried out by Sri Lankan troops and reparations for victims.

That agreement was only accepted by the government that took over after the Rajapaksas' first stint in power.

Rajapaksa said Washington's recent decision to ban current Sri Lanka army chief Shavendra Silva from visiting the US was because Colombo had signed up to the resolution.

"It is because of the historic betrayal... in co-sponsoring UN Human Rights Council Resolution 30/1 in 2015 that other countries are able to name members of our armed forces as violators of human rights," he said in a statement.

Before winning the presidency, Gotabaya had pledged he would not honour the previous government's commitments to the UN.

Mahinda Rajapaksa's administration was on the verge of international sanctions because of its refusal to investigate the alleged war crimes when he was defeated at the January 2015 elections.

Sri Lanka Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, who oversaw a brutal end to a decades-long conflict with Tamil separatists, said Wednesday the country was withdrawing from a United Nations resolution investigating alleged war crimes.

Sri Lanka Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, who oversaw a brutal end to a decades-long conflict with Tamil separatists, said Wednesday the country was withdrawing from a United Nations resolution investigating alleged war crimes. Rajapaksa was president when Sri Lankan troops defeated Tamil Tiger guerrillas in 2009, but rights groups accused the army of killing at least 40,000 Tamil civilians in the final months of the conflict. His brother Gotabaya, who is now president, was defence secretary at the time. Premier Mahinda said the government would no longer abide by a 2015 resolution calling for accountability for alleged excesses carried out by Sri Lankan troops and reparations for victims. That agreement was only accepted by the government that took over after the Rajapaksas' first stint in power. Rajapaksa said Washington's recent decision to ban current Sri Lanka army chief Shavendra Silva from visiting the US was because Colombo had signed up to the resolution. "It is because of the historic betrayal... in co-sponsoring UN Human Rights Council Resolution 30/1 in 2015 that other countries are able to name members of our armed forces as violators of human rights," he said in a statement. Before winning the presidency, Gotabaya had pledged he would not honour the previous government's commitments to the UN. Mahinda Rajapaksa's administration was on the verge of international sanctions because of its refusal to investigate the alleged war crimes when he was defeated at the January 2015 elections.

Sri Lanka says will not honour UN pledge on war probe

A Russian-backed regime offensive in northwest Syria has displaced 900,000 people since the start of December, and babies are dying of cold because aid camps are full, the UN said Monday.

That figure is 100,000 more than the United Nations had previously recorded.

"The crisis in northwest Syria has reached a horrifying new level," said Mark Lowcock, the UN head of humanitarian affairs and emergency relief.&nbsp;

He said the displaced were overwhelmingly women and children who are "traumatized and forced to sleep outside in freezing temperatures because camps are full. Mothers burn plastic to keep children warm. Babies and small children are dying because of the cold."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-turkey-call-for-russia-to-stop-backing-syrian-atrocities-281103">President Trump, Turkey call Russia to stop backing Syrian 'atrocities'</a>

The Idlib region, including parts of neighboring Aleppo province, is home to some three million people, half of them already displaced from other parts of the country.

The offensive that began late last year has caused the biggest single displacement of people since the conflict began in 2011. The war has killed more than 380,000 people since it erupted almost nine years ago, following the brutal repression of popular demonstrations demanding regime change.

Lowcock warned Monday that the violence in the northwest was "indiscriminate."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-235000-flee-northwest-syria-flare-up-united-nation-270586">More than 235,000 flee northwest Syria flare-up - United Nation</a>

"Health facilities, schools, residential areas, mosques and markets have been hit. Schools are suspended, many health facilities have closed. There is a serious risk of disease outbreaks. Basic infrastructure is falling apart," he said in a statement.

"We are now receiving reports that settlements for displaced people are being hit, resulting in deaths, injuries and further displacement."

He said that a massive relief operation underway from the Turkish border is has been "overwhelmed. The equipment and facilities being used by aid workers are being damaged. Humanitarian workers themselves are being displaced and killed."

US President Donald Trump on Sunday called for Russia to end its support for the Syrian regime's "atrocities" in the Idlib region, the White House said.

A Russian-backed regime offensive in northwest Syria has displaced 900,000 people since the start of December, and babies are dying of cold because aid camps are full, the UN said Monday.

A Russian-backed regime offensive in northwest Syria has displaced 900,000 people since the start of December, and babies are dying of cold because aid camps are full, the UN said Monday. That figure is 100,000 more than the United Nations had previously recorded. "The crisis in northwest Syria has reached a horrifying new level," said Mark Lowcock, the UN head of humanitarian affairs and emergency relief. He said the displaced were overwhelmingly women and children who are "traumatized and forced to sleep outside in freezing temperatures because camps are full. Mothers burn plastic to keep children warm. Babies and small children are dying because of the cold." Also read: President Trump, Turkey call Russia to stop backing Syrian 'atrocities' The Idlib region, including parts of neighboring Aleppo province, is home to some three million people, half of them already displaced from other parts of the country. The offensive that began late last year has caused the biggest single displacement of people since the conflict began in 2011. The war has killed more than 380,000 people since it erupted almost nine years ago, following the brutal repression of popular demonstrations demanding regime change. Lowcock warned Monday that the violence in the northwest was "indiscriminate." Also read: More than 235,000 flee northwest Syria flare-up - United Nation "Health facilities, schools, residential areas, mosques and markets have been hit. Schools are suspended, many health facilities have closed. There is a serious risk of disease outbreaks. Basic infrastructure is falling apart," he said in a statement. "We are now receiving reports that settlements for displaced people are being hit, resulting in deaths, injuries and further displacement." He said that a massive relief operation underway from the Turkish border is has been "overwhelmed. The equipment and facilities being used by aid workers are being damaged. Humanitarian workers themselves are being displaced and killed." US President Donald Trump on Sunday called for Russia to end its support for the Syrian regime's "atrocities" in the Idlib region, the White House said.

900,000 people displaced by fighting in northwest Syria since December: UN

Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi raised the issue of Kashmir during his meeting with UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-fate-hangs-in-balance-as-fatf-plenary-starts-today-in-paris-280888">Pakistan's fate hangs in the balance as FATF plenary kicks off today in Paris&nbsp;</a>

Qureshi asked the UN chief to step in and mediate the dispute between India and Pakistan, however, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-position-has-not-changed-mea-rejects-mediation-offer-by-un-secretary-general-on-kashmir-280993">India</a>&nbsp;has outrightly rejected any scope of third-party mediation.

External affairs ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar emphasised that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India and that talks should focus on Pakistan vacating territories it has&nbsp;illegally occupied.

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Qureshi also asked the UN chief to strengthen the UN military monitors on either side of the line of control.&nbsp;In response, Guterres re-affirmed that the UN position on Kashmir was based on the United Nations charter.

He said that he was open to mediating the dispute if both sides demanded his intervention.

Guterres is scheduled to attend a UN conference for Afghan refugees and also visit the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../latest-south-asia-news-united-nations-general- secretary-antonio-guterres-will-visit-pakistan-on-sunday-280009">Kartarpur Sahib shrine</a>.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is scheduled to meet the UN chief later today. 
&nbsp;

Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi raised the issue of Kashmir during his meeting with UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres. Also read: Pakistan's fate hangs in the balance as FATF plenary kicks off today in Paris Qureshi asked the UN chief to step in and mediate the dispute between India and Pakistan, however, India has outrightly rejected any scope of third-party mediation.

Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi raised the issue of Kashmir during his meeting with UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres. Also read: Pakistan's fate hangs in the balance as FATF plenary kicks off today in Paris Qureshi asked the UN chief to step in and mediate the dispute between India and Pakistan, however, India has outrightly rejected any scope of third-party mediation. External affairs ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar emphasised that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India and that talks should focus on Pakistan vacating territories it has illegally occupied. × Qureshi also asked the UN chief to strengthen the UN military monitors on either side of the line of control. In response, Guterres re-affirmed that the UN position on Kashmir was based on the United Nations charter. He said that he was open to mediating the dispute if both sides demanded his intervention. Guterres is scheduled to attend a UN conference for Afghan refugees and also visit the Kartarpur Sahib shrine. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is scheduled to meet the UN chief later today.

Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi rakes up Kashmir with UN chief

The UN Security Council endorsed a 55-point road map for ending the war in Libya on February 12 and condemned the recent increase in violence in the oil-rich North African country. The vote on the British-drafted resolution was 14-0, with Russia abstaining even though Russian President Vladimir Putin was one of the 12 leaders who agreed to the plan at a conference in Berlin on January 19. Watch report

UN votes to endorse road map to end war in Libya

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