<p>India has lifted 800 million out of poverty in the last five to six years, simply by the use of smartphones, the United Nations&nbsp;General Assembly (UNGA) President Dennis Francis said on Thursday (Aug 1).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Francis highlighted that people in the rural stretches of India who did not have any access to banking or payment&nbsp;were now able to pay bills and receive payments for orders just by using a smartphone.</p>

<p>"Providing the basis to rapid development, such as through digitalisation. Take, for example, the case of India...India has been able to lift 800 million people out of poverty over the last 5-6 years simply by the use of smartphones," said Francis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He pointed to the rapid and high internet penetration in India with even the remotest regions having decent reception signals. He added that other Global South countries needed to embrace digitalisation, akin to India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Rural farmers in India who never had a relationship with the banking system, are now able to transact all their businesses on their smartphone. They pay their bills and receive payments for orders. There is a high level of internet penetration in India as almost everyone has a cellphone," he said.</p>

<p>"But that is not the case in many parts of the Global South. So, there has to be equity demands. There has to be some effort and initiatives to address this inequality as an initial step in negotiating the global framework for digitalisation."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/upi-to-take-over-90-of-retail-digital-payments-in-india-597688" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;UPI to take over 90% of retail digital payments in India</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/upi-to-take-over-90-of-retail-digital-payments-in-india-597688/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>Digital payments rise in India</strong></h2>

<p>The digital payments system in India has seen a boom under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Digital India campaign, launched after he first came to power in 2014. Post demonetisation in 2016, the rise of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI)&nbsp;&nbsp;has massively contributed to digital payments.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI),&nbsp;the governing body of UPI on Thursday stated that the platform reported a 45 per cent year-on-year growth in transaction volume to reach 14.44 billion in July. The value of transactions also saw a 35 per cent year-on-year increase, totalling Rs 20.64 trillion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While countries across the globe struggle to put up infrastructure for decent internet, India has leapfrogged most with the widespread adoption of 5G at affordable price points. According to reports, India's share of 5G phones grew by 66 per cent year-on-year while the average selling price of 5G hardware continues to drop -- leading to a surge in demand.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India has lifted 800 million out of poverty in the last five to six years, simply by the use of smartphones, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) President Dennis Francis said on Thursday (Aug 1).

India has lifted 800 million out of poverty in the last five to six years, simply by the use of smartphones, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) President Dennis Francis said on Thursday (Aug 1). Francis highlighted that people in the rural stretches of India who did not have any access to banking or payment were now able to pay bills and receive payments for orders just by using a smartphone. "Providing the basis to rapid development, such as through digitalisation. Take, for example, the case of India...India has been able to lift 800 million people out of poverty over the last 5-6 years simply by the use of smartphones," said Francis. He pointed to the rapid and high internet penetration in India with even the remotest regions having decent reception signals. He added that other Global South countries needed to embrace digitalisation, akin to India. "Rural farmers in India who never had a relationship with the banking system, are now able to transact all their businesses on their smartphone. They pay their bills and receive payments for orders. There is a high level of internet penetration in India as almost everyone has a cellphone," he said. "But that is not the case in many parts of the Global South. So, there has to be equity demands. There has to be some effort and initiatives to address this inequality as an initial step in negotiating the global framework for digitalisation." WATCH | UPI to take over 90% of retail digital payments in India Digital payments rise in India The digital payments system in India has seen a boom under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Digital India campaign, launched after he first came to power in 2014. Post demonetisation in 2016, the rise of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has massively contributed to digital payments. National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), the governing body of UPI on Thursday stated that the platform reported a 45 per cent year-on-year growth in transaction volume to reach 14.44 billion in July. The value of transactions also saw a 35 per cent year-on-year increase, totalling Rs 20.64 trillion. While countries across the globe struggle to put up infrastructure for decent internet, India has leapfrogged most with the widespread adoption of 5G at affordable price points. According to reports, India's share of 5G phones grew by 66 per cent year-on-year while the average selling price of 5G hardware continues to drop -- leading to a surge in demand. (With inputs from agencies)

India lifted 800 million out of poverty 'simply by smartphones': UN

A Taliban delegation on Sunday attended a United Nations-led meeting in Qatar on Afghanistan after organizers said women would be excluded from the gathering. Watch in for more details!

Taliban delegation attends a UN-led meeting in Qatar

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<p>The United Nations (UN) said on Friday (June 28) that it found five bombs planted by the Islamic State (ISIS)&nbsp;years ago in a wall of the iconic&nbsp;Al-Nuri mosque in Iraq's Mosul. Speaking to the news agency AFP, a UNESCO representative said that five "large-scale explosive devices, designed to trigger a massive destruction of the site," were found in the southern wall of the prayer hall on Tuesday (June 25).</p>

<p>According to UNESCO, these explosive devices were hidden inside a wall, which was "specially rebuilt around them: it explains why they could not be discovered when the site was cleared by Iraqi forces in 2020."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Situation under control'</strong></h2>

<p>One bomb was removed, but four others remain connected to each other&nbsp;and were expected to be cleared in the coming days, the agency said, adding that Iraqi armed forces immediately secured the area and the situation was under control.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/islamic-state-execute-eight-syrian-soldiers-in-bid-to-revive-reign-of-terror-706512">Islamic State 'executes' eight Syrian soldiers in desert ambush, reports war monitor</a></strong></p>

<p>General Tahseen al-Khafaji, spokesperson for the Joint Operations Command of various Iraqi forces, confirmed the discovery of the explosives.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>UNESCO working to restore the site</strong></h2>

<p>Al-Nuri mosque and the adjacent leaning minaret were destroyed&nbsp;during the battle to retake Mosul&nbsp;from ISIS in 2017.&nbsp;Iraq's army accused the terror&nbsp;outfit, which occupied the city for three years, of planting explosives at the site and blowing it up.</p>

<p>AFP reported that UNESCO has been working to restore&nbsp;the site and other architectural heritage in Mosul.</p>

<p>It was from the Al-Nuri mosque that Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi, the then-leader of IS, proclaimed the establishment of the group's "caliphate" in July 2014. ISIS terrorists&nbsp;took over large swathes of territory in Iraq and neighbouring Syria which they ruled with brutality.</p>

<p>But three years later,&nbsp;Iraqi forces backed by a US-led coalition drove ISIS out of Mosul.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United Nations (UN) said on Friday (June 28) that it found five bombs planted by the Islamic State (ISIS) years ago in a wall of the iconic Al-Nuri mosque in Iraq's Mosul.

The United Nations (UN) said on Friday (June 28) that it found five bombs planted by the Islamic State (ISIS) years ago in a wall of the iconic Al-Nuri mosque in Iraq's Mosul. Speaking to the news agency AFP, a UNESCO representative said that five "large-scale explosive devices, designed to trigger a massive destruction of the site," were found in the southern wall of the prayer hall on Tuesday (June 25). According to UNESCO, these explosive devices were hidden inside a wall, which was "specially rebuilt around them: it explains why they could not be discovered when the site was cleared by Iraqi forces in 2020." 'Situation under control' One bomb was removed, but four others remain connected to each other and were expected to be cleared in the coming days, the agency said, adding that Iraqi armed forces immediately secured the area and the situation was under control. Also read | Islamic State 'executes' eight Syrian soldiers in desert ambush, reports war monitor General Tahseen al-Khafaji, spokesperson for the Joint Operations Command of various Iraqi forces, confirmed the discovery of the explosives. UNESCO working to restore the site Al-Nuri mosque and the adjacent leaning minaret were destroyed during the battle to retake Mosul from ISIS in 2017. Iraq's army accused the terror outfit, which occupied the city for three years, of planting explosives at the site and blowing it up. AFP reported that UNESCO has been working to restore the site and other architectural heritage in Mosul. It was from the Al-Nuri mosque that Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi, the then-leader of IS, proclaimed the establishment of the group's "caliphate" in July 2014. ISIS terrorists took over large swathes of territory in Iraq and neighbouring Syria which they ruled with brutality. But three years later, Iraqi forces backed by a US-led coalition drove ISIS out of Mosul. (With inputs from agencies)

UN says five bombs planted by ISIS years ago found hidden in Iraq's Al-Nuri mosque

- Can Israel achieve its stated goal of eliminating Hamas? - Is China's People's Liberation army corrupt? - Manila accuses Beijing of violent confrontation in the contested waters of South China sea - The United Nations security council demands an immediate halt to the fighting in Sudan & the siege of El Fasher by RSF. Jyotsna Kumar gets you an in-depth analysis of the world's biggest warzones of the week.

Israel-Hamas war: Can Israel achieve its stated goal of eliminating Hamas? | World At War

India once again slammed Pakistan. At UNHRC, India slams Pakistan for raking up the Kashmir issue. First Secretary Anupama Singh says Pakistan has a 'stellar record as the world's biggest exporter of terrorism...'

India slams Pakistan for raking up Kashmir issue at UNHRC in Geneva

Four in every five people want their country to strengthen its commitments to addressing climate change. This, according to a survey conducted by the United Nations Development Program, in collaboration with Oxford University and Geopoll. Randomised telephone calls were made to over 75,000 people in 77 countries, representing 87% of the global population.

4 in 5 people want more action against climate change: UN survey

<p>Major Radhika Sen of the Indian Army on Thursday (May 30) was honoured with the '2023 United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award' by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Major Sen received the prestigious award as the world body has recognised her outstanding contributions to promoting gender equality and women's empowerment in United Nations peacekeeping operations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She served with the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO).&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a UN press release, Major Sen served in the East of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) from March 2023 to April 2024 as the Commander of MONUSCO's Engagement Platoon for the Indian Rapid Deployment Battalion (INDRDB).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/agnikul-cosmos-successfully-launches-worlds-first-3d-printed-rocket-engine-727043">Agnikul Cosmos successfully launches world's first 3D-printed rocket engine</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>She was born in Himachal Pradesh in 1993 and joined the Indian Army eight years ago. She graduated as a biotech engineer and&nbsp;decided to join the armed forces when she was pursuing her Master's degree from IIT Bombay.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In March 2023, she was deployed to MONUSCO as the Engagement Platoon Commander with the Indian Rapid Deployment Battalion and completed her tenure in April 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking to the news agency PTI, Major Sen said that it is a "matter of honour and privilege" for her to represent India at the multilateral forum.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Representing the country at such an international forum is a feeling beyond description,” she told the news agency.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Major Radhika Sen of the Indian Army has been awarded the prestigious United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award for the year 2023. This accolade recognises her outstanding contributions to promoting gender equality and women's empowerment in United… <a href="https://t.co/9L7ipKYf9e">pic.twitter.com/9L7ipKYf9e</a></p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a> congratulates Major Radhika Sen on being conferred with the ‘UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year' Award by Mr António Guteress, Secretary-General of the United Nations, at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UN</a> Headquarters, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewYork?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewYork</a> for her outstanding service in the Democratic Republic of the… <a href="https://t.co/qJjyFtm1S3">pic.twitter.com/qJjyFtm1S3</a></p>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-to-lose-power-gantzs-centrist-party-submits-bill-to-dissolve-israeli-parliament-727177">Netanyahu to lose power? Gantz's centrist party submits bill to dissolve Israeli parliament</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj also congratulated her. Taking to X&nbsp;she wrote, "Her dedication and bravery highlight the invaluable role of #women peacekeepers in building a better world. We are incredibly proud of her achievements and inspired by her commitment to peace and equality."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Guterres hailed Major Sen as a "true leader and role model".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Her service was a true credit to the United Nations as a whole," Guterres said, further adding that Major Sen has earned their trust with humility, compassion and dedication.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He further stated that her troops actively engaged with conflict-affected communities, including women and girls, in the escalating tense environment in North Kivu.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Major Radhika Sen of the Indian Army on Thursday (May 30) was honoured with the '2023 United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award' by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

Major Radhika Sen of the Indian Army on Thursday (May 30) was honoured with the '2023 United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award' by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Major Sen received the prestigious award as the world body has recognised her outstanding contributions to promoting gender equality and women's empowerment in United Nations peacekeeping operations. She served with the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO). According to a UN press release, Major Sen served in the East of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) from March 2023 to April 2024 as the Commander of MONUSCO's Engagement Platoon for the Indian Rapid Deployment Battalion (INDRDB). Also read: Agnikul Cosmos successfully launches world's first 3D-printed rocket engine She was born in Himachal Pradesh in 1993 and joined the Indian Army eight years ago. She graduated as a biotech engineer and decided to join the armed forces when she was pursuing her Master's degree from IIT Bombay. In March 2023, she was deployed to MONUSCO as the Engagement Platoon Commander with the Indian Rapid Deployment Battalion and completed her tenure in April 2024. While speaking to the news agency PTI, Major Sen said that it is a "matter of honour and privilege" for her to represent India at the multilateral forum. "Representing the country at such an international forum is a feeling beyond description,” she told the news agency. #WATCH | Major Radhika Sen of the Indian Army has been awarded the prestigious United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award for the year 2023. This accolade recognises her outstanding contributions to promoting gender equality and women's empowerment in United… pic.twitter.com/9L7ipKYf9e — ANI (@ANI) May 30, 2024 × #IndianArmy congratulates Major Radhika Sen on being conferred with the ‘UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year' Award by Mr António Guteress, Secretary-General of the United Nations, at #UN Headquarters, #NewYork for her outstanding service in the Democratic Republic of the… pic.twitter.com/qJjyFtm1S3 — ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) May 30, 2024 × Also read: Netanyahu to lose power? Gantz's centrist party submits bill to dissolve Israeli parliament India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj also congratulated her. Taking to X she wrote, "Her dedication and bravery highlight the invaluable role of #women peacekeepers in building a better world. We are incredibly proud of her achievements and inspired by her commitment to peace and equality." Guterres hailed Major Sen as a "true leader and role model". "Her service was a true credit to the United Nations as a whole," Guterres said, further adding that Major Sen has earned their trust with humility, compassion and dedication. He further stated that her troops actively engaged with conflict-affected communities, including women and girls, in the escalating tense environment in North Kivu. (With inputs from agencies)

Major Radhika Sen of the Indian Army receives prestigious 2023 UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award

The countries met their target of providing a hundred billion dollars in annual climate aid to poor countries for the first time in 2022. However, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development(OECD) said that it happened two years later than expected. The failure to raise the money on time has eroded trust in climate negotiations.

Rich Nations two-year late to meet climate finance goals

Representatives of Indigenous peoples celebrated Friday at the United Nations following the agreement of a treaty against the pillaging of their traditional knowledge and genetic resources, like those from medicinal plants.

Celebrations as new biopiracy treaty agreed at UN

The exercise in Taiwanese waters and air space has pushed the self-ruled island to the edge. The United Nations has also urged restraint from all sides to avoid tensions in the region.

China's joint Sword-2024A exercise: Day 2

An Indian personnel working with the United Nations lost his life in Gaza after his vehicle was targeted in an attack in Rafah, making it the “first international" casualty for the organisation since the start of the Israel-Hamas conflict. Watch in for more details!

Israel war: First international UN staff member killed in Gaza attack, revises total death toll

<p>A senior official with the UN Mine Action Service said on Friday (Apr 26) that there are some 37 million tonnes of debris to clear away in the war-ravaged Gaza once the Israeli offensive is over and it could take over 14 years to clear it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pehr Lodhammar of the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) said that it was impossible to clearly state how much of the ammunition fired in Gaza remained live. Lodhammar, who has run mine programmes in countries such as Iraq, further noted that unexploded ordnance buried in the rubble would complicate the work of clearing the cities.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-hostage-says-hamas-captor-proposed-her-for-marriage-he-gave-me-a-ring-715371">Israeli hostage says Hamas captor proposed her for marriage; ‘he gave me a ring’</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>While speaking to journalists in Geneva during the launch of the 2023 annual report Friday, Lodhammar said, "We know that typically there is a failure rate of at least 10% of land service ammunition. What we do know is that we estimated 37 million tonnes of debris, which is approximately 300 kilos of debris per square metre."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Israel-Hamas war started after the Paletine-based militant group launched a shock incursion into southern Israel in which they killed 1,200 people, according to Israeli tallies. It is believed that Hamas is still holding 129 hostages out of the 253 it took on October 7. In retaliation, Israel started the war against Hamas and began the&nbsp;military offensive.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far in the war, at least 34,305 Palestinians have been killed and 77,293 wounded, according to Gaza's health ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/premature-baby-rescued-from-dead-mothers-womb-in-gaza-dies-715377">Premature baby rescued from dead mother’s womb in Gaza dies</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Gaza infrastructure damages estimated at $18.5bn&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier this month, a new report by the World Bank and the United Nations found that the cost of damage to critical infrastructure in the first four months of the ongoing war in Gaza is estimated at $18.5 billion.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Iran's new warning to Israel</strong></p>

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<p>According to the report, the damage caused by missile strikes and bombardments estimated that the damage was equivalent to 97 per cent of the combined GDP of the occupied West Bank and Gaza in 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The level of destruction in the Gaza Strip since October 2023 is unprecedented," the Interim Damage Assessment Note said further mentioning that such costs "are expected to increase substantially along with the magnitude of damages" as the conflict continues.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A senior official with the UN Mine Action Service said on Friday (Apr 26) that there are some 37 million tonnes of debris to clear away in the war-ravaged Gaza once the Israeli offensive is over and it could take over 14 years to clear it.

A senior official with the UN Mine Action Service said on Friday (Apr 26) that there are some 37 million tonnes of debris to clear away in the war-ravaged Gaza once the Israeli offensive is over and it could take over 14 years to clear it. Pehr Lodhammar of the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) said that it was impossible to clearly state how much of the ammunition fired in Gaza remained live. Lodhammar, who has run mine programmes in countries such as Iraq, further noted that unexploded ordnance buried in the rubble would complicate the work of clearing the cities. Also read: Israeli hostage says Hamas captor proposed her for marriage; ‘he gave me a ring’ While speaking to journalists in Geneva during the launch of the 2023 annual report Friday, Lodhammar said, "We know that typically there is a failure rate of at least 10% of land service ammunition. What we do know is that we estimated 37 million tonnes of debris, which is approximately 300 kilos of debris per square metre." The Israel-Hamas war started after the Paletine-based militant group launched a shock incursion into southern Israel in which they killed 1,200 people, according to Israeli tallies. It is believed that Hamas is still holding 129 hostages out of the 253 it took on October 7. In retaliation, Israel started the war against Hamas and began the military offensive. So far in the war, at least 34,305 Palestinians have been killed and 77,293 wounded, according to Gaza's health ministry. Also read: Premature baby rescued from dead mother’s womb in Gaza dies Gaza infrastructure damages estimated at $18.5bn Earlier this month, a new report by the World Bank and the United Nations found that the cost of damage to critical infrastructure in the first four months of the ongoing war in Gaza is estimated at $18.5 billion. Watch: Iran's new warning to Israel × According to the report, the damage caused by missile strikes and bombardments estimated that the damage was equivalent to 97 per cent of the combined GDP of the occupied West Bank and Gaza in 2022. "The level of destruction in the Gaza Strip since October 2023 is unprecedented," the Interim Damage Assessment Note said further mentioning that such costs "are expected to increase substantially along with the magnitude of damages" as the conflict continues. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

It could take over 14 years to clear debris in war-ravaged Gaza: UN official

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<p>The United States,&nbsp;by casting a veto in the United Nations&nbsp;Security Council on Thursday (April 18), blocked a resolution that recommended recognition of a Palestinian state by providing it full membership in the world body.</p>

<p>The US vetoed a draft resolution which proposed to the 193-member UN General Assembly that&nbsp;"the State of Palestine&nbsp;be admitted&nbsp;to membership"&nbsp;of the UN.</p>

<p>Twelve&nbsp;member countries of the UN Security Council&nbsp;voted in&nbsp;favour&nbsp;of the resolution.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the United Kingdom and Switzerland abstained.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-pro-palestinian-protesters-block-traffic-on-golden-gate-bridge-airport-highways-in-major-us-cities-712025">Pro-Palestinian protesters block traffic on Golden Gate Bridge, airport highways in major US cities</a></p>

<p>Speaking in&nbsp;the council, Deputy US Ambassador to the UN,&nbsp;Robert Wood said,&nbsp;"The United States continues&nbsp;to strongly support a two-state solution. This vote does not reflect opposition to Palestinian statehood, but instead&nbsp;is an acknowledgement&nbsp;that it will only come from direct negotiations between the parties."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Palestine&nbsp;criticises&nbsp;US veto, Israel&nbsp;stands in&nbsp;support</strong></h2>

<p>Palestinian Authority&nbsp;President,&nbsp;Mahmoud Abbas, in a statement, slammed the US veto, stating that it was&nbsp;“unfair, immoral, and unjustified, and defies the will&nbsp;of&nbsp;the international community, which strongly supports the&nbsp;State&nbsp;of&nbsp;Palestine obtaining full membership in the United Nations.”</p>

<p>Meanwhile, speaking in the council after the voting, Palestinian UN Ambassador Riyad&nbsp;Mansour,&nbsp;said, "The fact that this resolution did not pass will not break our will&nbsp;and&nbsp;it will not defeat our determination. We will not stop in our effort."</p>

<p>However,&nbsp;Israel’s&nbsp;Foreign Minister Israel Katz was full of praise for the US and appreciated the&nbsp;country's&nbsp;decision to veto what he said was a&nbsp;“shameful proposal".</p>

<p>“The proposal to&nbsp;recognise&nbsp;a Palestinian&nbsp;state, more than&nbsp;6&nbsp;months after the largest massacre&nbsp;of&nbsp;Jews since the Holocaust and after the sexual crimes and other atrocities committed by Hamas&nbsp;terrorists&nbsp;was a reward for terrorism”,&nbsp;wrote&nbsp;Katz,&nbsp;on X.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: Israel hostage swap for Palestinian prisoners&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Israel's&nbsp;UN Ambassador Gilad Erdan, while addressing the 12 countries who voted in favour of the resolution, said,&nbsp;"It's&nbsp;very sad&nbsp;because your vote will only embolden Palestinian rejectionism even more and make peace almost impossible."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Palestinian bid for full membership of the world body came six months after the war started between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.</p>

<p>Currently, the Palestinians are a non-member observer&nbsp;state&nbsp;after they were granted a de facto recognition of statehood by the UN General Assembly in 2012.</p>

<p>The Security Council and two-thirds of the General Assembly need to approve their application for a full UN membership so that Palestine can achieve complete statehood.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United States, by casting a veto in the United Nations Security Council on Thursday (April 18), blocked a resolution that recommended recognition of a Palestinian state by providing it full membership in the world body.

The United States, by casting a veto in the United Nations Security Council on Thursday (April 18), blocked a resolution that recommended recognition of a Palestinian state by providing it full membership in the world body. The US vetoed a draft resolution which proposed to the 193-member UN General Assembly that "the State of Palestine be admitted to membership" of the UN. Twelve member countries of the UN Security Council voted in favour of the resolution. Meanwhile, the United Kingdom and Switzerland abstained. Also Read: Pro-Palestinian protesters block traffic on Golden Gate Bridge, airport highways in major US cities Speaking in the council, Deputy US Ambassador to the UN, Robert Wood said, "The United States continues to strongly support a two-state solution. This vote does not reflect opposition to Palestinian statehood, but instead is an acknowledgement that it will only come from direct negotiations between the parties." Palestine criticises US veto, Israel stands in support Palestinian Authority President, Mahmoud Abbas, in a statement, slammed the US veto, stating that it was “unfair, immoral, and unjustified, and defies the will of the international community, which strongly supports the State of Palestine obtaining full membership in the United Nations.” Meanwhile, speaking in the council after the voting, Palestinian UN Ambassador Riyad Mansour, said, "The fact that this resolution did not pass will not break our will and it will not defeat our determination. We will not stop in our effort." However, Israel’s Foreign Minister Israel Katz was full of praise for the US and appreciated the country's decision to veto what he said was a “shameful proposal". “The proposal to recognise a Palestinian state, more than 6 months after the largest massacre of Jews since the Holocaust and after the sexual crimes and other atrocities committed by Hamas terrorists was a reward for terrorism”, wrote Katz, on X. Watch: Israel-Palestine war: Israel hostage swap for Palestinian prisoners Israel's UN Ambassador Gilad Erdan, while addressing the 12 countries who voted in favour of the resolution, said, "It's very sad because your vote will only embolden Palestinian rejectionism even more and make peace almost impossible." The Palestinian bid for full membership of the world body came six months after the war started between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Currently, the Palestinians are a non-member observer state after they were granted a de facto recognition of statehood by the UN General Assembly in 2012. The Security Council and two-thirds of the General Assembly need to approve their application for a full UN membership so that Palestine can achieve complete statehood. (With inputs from agencies)

US vetoes Palestinian request for full statehood at United Nations

<p>Indian foreign minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on Thursday (Apr 4) dismissed remarks made by a United Nations official over the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections, saying that he does not need to hear from the world body over a "free and fair" elections process.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes after a spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General said in a statement that they "hope" that in India, people's "political and civil rights" were protected and everyone is able to vote in a "free and fair" atmosphere.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaishankar was in Thiruvananthapuram when he said, "I don't need the United Nations to tell me our elections should be free &amp; fair. I have the people of India. The people of India will ensure that elections are free &amp; fair. So, don't worry about it."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-mp-randeep-singh-surjewala-and-bjp-mp-hema-malini-row-heres-what-happened-707692">Congress MP Randeep Singh Surjewala and BJP MP Hema Malini row: Here's what happened</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The foreign minister was campaigning for his ministerial colleague and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Rajeev Chandrasekhar in the Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the interaction with the reporters, Jaishankar said that the UN official made the comment on the Indian elections last week in response to a "very loaded question" during a press briefing at the UN.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Stephane Dujarric, the spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, was asked last week about the "political unrest" in India ahead of the upcoming national elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/son-in-law-after-sons-2019-loss-robert-vadra-reacts-if-he-will-contest-lok-sabha-polls-from-amethi-707747">Son-in-law after son's 2019 loss? Robert Vadra reacts to 'chances' of contesting Lok Sabha polls from Amethi</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Mamata Banerjee: One nation, one political party is BJP’s policy&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The questions were in connection to the latest political development in the capital as Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was arrested. The UN official was also asked about the opposition Congress Party's bank accounts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"What we very much hope that in India, as in any country that is having elections, that everyone's rights are protected, including political and civil rights, and everyone is able to vote in an atmosphere that is free and fair," Dujarric had said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Indian foreign minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on Thursday (Apr 4) dismissed remarks made by a United Nations official over the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections, saying that he does not need to hear from the world body over a "free and fair" elections process.

Indian foreign minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on Thursday (Apr 4) dismissed remarks made by a United Nations official over the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections, saying that he does not need to hear from the world body over a "free and fair" elections process. This comes after a spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General said in a statement that they "hope" that in India, people's "political and civil rights" were protected and everyone is able to vote in a "free and fair" atmosphere. Jaishankar was in Thiruvananthapuram when he said, "I don't need the United Nations to tell me our elections should be free & fair. I have the people of India. The people of India will ensure that elections are free & fair. So, don't worry about it." Also read: Congress MP Randeep Singh Surjewala and BJP MP Hema Malini row: Here's what happened The foreign minister was campaigning for his ministerial colleague and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Rajeev Chandrasekhar in the Lok Sabha polls. During the interaction with the reporters, Jaishankar said that the UN official made the comment on the Indian elections last week in response to a "very loaded question" during a press briefing at the UN. Stephane Dujarric, the spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, was asked last week about the "political unrest" in India ahead of the upcoming national elections. Also read: Son-in-law after son's 2019 loss? Robert Vadra reacts to 'chances' of contesting Lok Sabha polls from Amethi Watch: Mamata Banerjee: One nation, one political party is BJP’s policy × The questions were in connection to the latest political development in the capital as Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was arrested. The UN official was also asked about the opposition Congress Party's bank accounts. "What we very much hope that in India, as in any country that is having elections, that everyone's rights are protected, including political and civil rights, and everyone is able to vote in an atmosphere that is free and fair," Dujarric had said. (With inputs from agencies)

Jaishankar rebuffs senior UN official's 'free and fair' remark on elections in India

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid11nCixXvu2Ks" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>The arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the Delhi excise policy case is garnering more and more international reactions. This time, the United Nations (UN) has commented on Kejriwal's arrest.</p>

<p>During a routine&nbsp;press conference, Stephane Dujarric- the spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, was asked about the political unrest in India before the Lok Sabha elections with Kejriwal's arrest and freezing of the Congress party's bank accounts.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-cms-wife-sunita-kejriwal-launches-whatsapp-drive-to-rally-support-for-jailed-husband-705483">Delhi CM's wife Sunita Kejriwal launches WhatsApp drive to rally support for jailed husband</a></strong></p>

<p>Responding to the question, Dujarric said, "What we very much hope that in India, as in any country that is having elections, that everyone’s rights are protected, including political and civil rights, and everyone is able to vote in an atmosphere that is free and fair."</p>

<h2><strong>US and Germany express concerns over Kejriwal's arrest</strong></h2>

<p>The UN spokesperson's reaction comes days after the United States (US) and Germany reacted to the Delhi chief minister's arrest. On Monday (March 25), a US State Department spokesperson said that it was closely following reports on Kejriwal's arrest, and urged a fair, transparent, and legal process for him.</p>

<p>Germany, meanwhile, said that like anyone facing accusations, Kejriwal was "entitled to a fair and impartial trial, this includes he can make use of all available legal avenues without restrictions."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Special court extends Arvind Kejriwal's custody in ED</strong></p>

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<p>New Delhi strongly objected to the remarks made by Washington and Berlin and summoned their diplomats.</p>

<h2><strong>Kejriwal's custody extended</strong></h2>

<p>Kejriwal's ED custody in the Delhi excise policy case has been extended till April 1. During the hearing at a local court in New Delhi, Kejriwal said on Thursday that the case had been going on for two years, and no allegations had been proven.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The chief minister said that out of the 162 witnesses the ED examined, his name appeared only in four places.&nbsp;</p>


The arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the Delhi excise policy case is garnering more and more international reactions.

The arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the Delhi excise policy case is garnering more and more international reactions. This time, the United Nations (UN) has commented on Kejriwal's arrest. During a routine press conference, Stephane Dujarric- the spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, was asked about the political unrest in India before the Lok Sabha elections with Kejriwal's arrest and freezing of the Congress party's bank accounts. Also read | Delhi CM's wife Sunita Kejriwal launches WhatsApp drive to rally support for jailed husband Responding to the question, Dujarric said, "What we very much hope that in India, as in any country that is having elections, that everyone’s rights are protected, including political and civil rights, and everyone is able to vote in an atmosphere that is free and fair." US and Germany express concerns over Kejriwal's arrest The UN spokesperson's reaction comes days after the United States (US) and Germany reacted to the Delhi chief minister's arrest. On Monday (March 25), a US State Department spokesperson said that it was closely following reports on Kejriwal's arrest, and urged a fair, transparent, and legal process for him. Germany, meanwhile, said that like anyone facing accusations, Kejriwal was "entitled to a fair and impartial trial, this includes he can make use of all available legal avenues without restrictions." Also watch | Special court extends Arvind Kejriwal's custody in ED × New Delhi strongly objected to the remarks made by Washington and Berlin and summoned their diplomats. Kejriwal's custody extended Kejriwal's ED custody in the Delhi excise policy case has been extended till April 1. During the hearing at a local court in New Delhi, Kejriwal said on Thursday that the case had been going on for two years, and no allegations had been proven. The chief minister said that out of the 162 witnesses the ED examined, his name appeared only in four places.

'Hope everyone's rights are protected...': UN reacts to Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal's arrest

More than 1 billion meals are wasted across the world each day while nearly 800 million people go hungry, United Nations report finds the world wasted 1.05 billion metric tons of food in 2022, meaning about a fifth of the food available to people was squandered by households, restaurants and other parts of the food service and retail sectors.

Humans waste over one billion meals a day: UN

The game of thrones in the strategically located and agriculturally rich Sudan between the Sudanese army and its former ally, the Rapid Support Forces or the RSF paramilitary group has killed 14,000 people across the country or possibly many more. For close to a year, the army and the paramilitary have battled over Khartoum and the nearby cities. In a symbolic victory, on the 12th of March, the Sudanese army claimed to have recaptured the headquarters of the state broadcaster in Omdurman.

Sudan conflict could trigger world's largest hunger crisis

<p>The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Thursday (Mar 21) unanimously adopted the first global resolution on artificial intelligence (AI). The resolution is aimed at encouraging personal data protection, monitoring AI for risks, and safeguarding human rights.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The nonbinding resolution was proposed by the United States and co-sponsored by China and 121 other nations. The officials said that it took three months to negotiate and advocate the strengthening of privacy policies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While briefing the reporters, one of the senior administration officials said, "We're sailing in choppy waters with the fast-changing technology, which means that it's more important than ever to steer by the light of our values."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The official described the resolution as the "first-ever truly global consensus document on AI".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/french-competition-authority-hits-google-with-272-million-fine-for-copyright-breaches-702267">French competition authority hits Google with $272 million fine for copyright breaches</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Several analysts have raised concerns that without proper monitoring, the development of AI could be used to disrupt democratic processes, lead to job losses, and more. This resolution is expected to tackle such issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The improper or malicious design, development, deployment and use of artificial intelligence systems ... pose risks that could ... undercut the protection, promotion and enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms," the measure says.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On being asked about whether negotiators faced resistance from Russia or China, the officials conceded there were "lots of heated conversations. ...But we actively engaged with China, Russia, Cuba, other countries that often don’t see eye to eye with us on issues."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We believe the resolution strikes the appropriate balance between furthering development while continuing to protect human rights," said one official&nbsp;on condition of anonymity to news agency Reuters.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/meta-under-probe-fire-for-alleged-role-in-illicit-drug-sales-adviser-quits-over-self-harm-content-701026">Meta under probe for alleged role in illicit drug sales; adviser quits over self harm content</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>European Parliament passes artificial intelligence law</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier in March, the European Parliament approved rules to regulate AI - the world's first framework for managing AI amid concerns that the technology may endanger humans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The regulation was agreed in negotiations with member states in December 2023. Now, it has been endorsed by MEPs with 523 votes in favour, 46 against and 49 abstentions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The European Council is scheduled to formally approve the law in May. It will be fully operational 24 months after it goes into effect.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Thursday (Mar 21) unanimously adopted the first global resolution on artificial intelligence (AI). The resolution is aimed at encouraging personal data protection, monitoring AI for risks, and safeguarding human rights.

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Thursday (Mar 21) unanimously adopted the first global resolution on artificial intelligence (AI). The resolution is aimed at encouraging personal data protection, monitoring AI for risks, and safeguarding human rights. The nonbinding resolution was proposed by the United States and co-sponsored by China and 121 other nations. The officials said that it took three months to negotiate and advocate the strengthening of privacy policies. While briefing the reporters, one of the senior administration officials said, "We're sailing in choppy waters with the fast-changing technology, which means that it's more important than ever to steer by the light of our values." The official described the resolution as the "first-ever truly global consensus document on AI". Also read: French competition authority hits Google with $272 million fine for copyright breaches Several analysts have raised concerns that without proper monitoring, the development of AI could be used to disrupt democratic processes, lead to job losses, and more. This resolution is expected to tackle such issues. "The improper or malicious design, development, deployment and use of artificial intelligence systems ... pose risks that could ... undercut the protection, promotion and enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms," the measure says. On being asked about whether negotiators faced resistance from Russia or China, the officials conceded there were "lots of heated conversations. ...But we actively engaged with China, Russia, Cuba, other countries that often don’t see eye to eye with us on issues." "We believe the resolution strikes the appropriate balance between furthering development while continuing to protect human rights," said one official on condition of anonymity to news agency Reuters. Also read: Meta under probe for alleged role in illicit drug sales; adviser quits over self harm content European Parliament passes artificial intelligence law Earlier in March, the European Parliament approved rules to regulate AI - the world's first framework for managing AI amid concerns that the technology may endanger humans. The regulation was agreed in negotiations with member states in December 2023. Now, it has been endorsed by MEPs with 523 votes in favour, 46 against and 49 abstentions. The European Council is scheduled to formally approve the law in May. It will be fully operational 24 months after it goes into effect. (With inputs from agencies)

United Nations unanimously adopts first global resolution on artificial intelligence

<p>The United Nations on Tuesday (Mar 19) confirmed that the global heat records were "smashed" last year with 2023 rounding out the hottest decade on record.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The state of the climate in 2023 gave ominous new significance to the phrase 'off the charts'," the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said as it published an annual report on the global climate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rising temperatures of oceans and acidification, glaciers losing unprecedented amounts of ice, alarming greenhouse gas levels, and sea level rise, were some&nbsp;climate-related trends.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cambridge-university-halts-funding-from-fossil-giants-amid-fears-of-influence-on-research-701731">Cambridge University halts funding from fossil giants amid fears of influence on research</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The report by WMO confirmed that last year was the hottest on record, and 2014-2023 was the hottest decade ever measured.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report stated that the global average near-surface temperature at 1.45°Celsius (with a margin of uncertainty of ± 0.12°C) above the pre-industrial baseline. It was the warmest ten-year period on record.&nbsp;</p>

<p>UN Secretary-General António Guterres said, "Sirens are blaring across all major indicators... Some records aren't just chart-topping, they're chart-busting. And changes are speeding-up."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/newly-identified-heavily-armoured-crocodile-ancestor-walked-the-earth-before-dinosaurs-701955">Newly identified ‘heavily armoured’ crocodile ancestor walked the Earth before dinosaurs</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Fossil fuel pollution is sending climate chaos off the charts.<br />
<br />
Last year saw record heat, record sea levels &amp; record ocean surface temperatures.<br />
<br />
There’s still time to throw out a lifeline to people &amp; planet - but leaders must step up &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ActNow?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ActNow</a>.<a href="https://t.co/fCGqLk0Xw6">https://t.co/fCGqLk0Xw6</a> <a href="https://t.co/3uaaMJDV04">pic.twitter.com/3uaaMJDV04</a></p>
— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) <a href="https://twitter.com/antonioguterres/status/1770094606295679082?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo said, "Never have we been so close – albeit on a temporary basis at the moment – to the 1.5°C lower limit of the Paris Agreement on climate change. The WMO community is sounding the Red Alert to the world."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Climate change is about much more than temperatures. What we witnessed in 2023, especially with the unprecedented ocean warmth, glacier retreat and Antarctic sea ice loss, is cause for particular concern," she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report mentioned that on an average day in 2023, approximately one-third of the world's ocean was affected by a marine heatwave, threatening critical ecosystems and food systems. By the end of 2023, more than 90% of the ocean had experienced heatwaves at some point in the year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Dubai based Lootah Biofuels is turning used oil into Biofuel</strong></p>

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<p>The preliminary data reveals that the global set of reference glaciers suffered the largest loss of ice on record (since 1950), driven by extreme melt in both western North America and Europe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Antarctic sea ice extent was by far the lowest on record, with the maximum extent at the end of winter at 1 million sqkm&nbsp;below the previous record year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The climate crisis is THE defining challenge that humanity faces and is closely intertwined with the inequality crisis – as witnessed by growing food insecurity and population displacement, and biodiversity loss," said Saulo.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The United Nations on Tuesday (Mar 19) confirmed that the global heat records were "smashed" last year with 2023 rounding out the hottest decade on record. "The state of the climate in 2023 gave ominous new significance to the phrase 'off the charts'," the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said as it published an annual report on the global climate.

The United Nations on Tuesday (Mar 19) confirmed that the global heat records were "smashed" last year with 2023 rounding out the hottest decade on record. "The state of the climate in 2023 gave ominous new significance to the phrase 'off the charts'," the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said as it published an annual report on the global climate. Rising temperatures of oceans and acidification, glaciers losing unprecedented amounts of ice, alarming greenhouse gas levels, and sea level rise, were some climate-related trends. Also read: Cambridge University halts funding from fossil giants amid fears of influence on research The report by WMO confirmed that last year was the hottest on record, and 2014-2023 was the hottest decade ever measured. The report stated that the global average near-surface temperature at 1.45°Celsius (with a margin of uncertainty of ± 0.12°C) above the pre-industrial baseline. It was the warmest ten-year period on record. UN Secretary-General António Guterres said, "Sirens are blaring across all major indicators... Some records aren't just chart-topping, they're chart-busting. And changes are speeding-up." Also read: Newly identified ‘heavily armoured’ crocodile ancestor walked the Earth before dinosaurs Fossil fuel pollution is sending climate chaos off the charts. Last year saw record heat, record sea levels & record ocean surface temperatures. There’s still time to throw out a lifeline to people & planet - but leaders must step up & #ActNow.https://t.co/fCGqLk0Xw6 pic.twitter.com/3uaaMJDV04 — António Guterres (@antonioguterres) March 19, 2024 × Meanwhile, WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo said, "Never have we been so close – albeit on a temporary basis at the moment – to the 1.5°C lower limit of the Paris Agreement on climate change. The WMO community is sounding the Red Alert to the world." "Climate change is about much more than temperatures. What we witnessed in 2023, especially with the unprecedented ocean warmth, glacier retreat and Antarctic sea ice loss, is cause for particular concern," she said. The report mentioned that on an average day in 2023, approximately one-third of the world's ocean was affected by a marine heatwave, threatening critical ecosystems and food systems. By the end of 2023, more than 90% of the ocean had experienced heatwaves at some point in the year. Watch: Dubai based Lootah Biofuels is turning used oil into Biofuel × The preliminary data reveals that the global set of reference glaciers suffered the largest loss of ice on record (since 1950), driven by extreme melt in both western North America and Europe. Antarctic sea ice extent was by far the lowest on record, with the maximum extent at the end of winter at 1 million sqkm below the previous record year. "The climate crisis is THE defining challenge that humanity faces and is closely intertwined with the inequality crisis – as witnessed by growing food insecurity and population displacement, and biodiversity loss," said Saulo. (With inputs from agencies)

UN body issues warning to world, says 2014-2023 was hottest decade on record

The UN fact-finding mission on Iran said Monday that it found the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman, in police custody "unlawful." Amini's death sparked a wave of nationwide protests in September 2022. She was detained in Tehran allegedly for not adhering to the mandatory dress code norms.

UN investigation finds Mahsa Amini's death in police custody 'unlawful'

The United Nations has warned that africa will be $2.5 trillion short of the finance that it needs to cope with climate change by 2030. According to a United Nations economic commission for Africa, the continent gets only 2% of global investments in clean energy.

UN: Africa to be $2.5 trillion short of Climate Finance by 2030

A report by United Nations Nuclear Watchdog claims that Iran's stock of Uranium enriched to near weapons grade has shrunk and this reduces the threshold at which Iran could produce three nuclear bombs.

Iran slow down enrichment to 7 kg per month, no reason for decrease in stock

A humanitarian catastrophe is unfolding in Gaza. Months of war has brought the besieged strip on the verge of hunger and desperation. Despite efforts by multiple negotiators, including the United States, Qatar and Egypt, peace remains elusive. On the ground, the picture is grim, along with rising death toll, there are now mounting concerns over the risk of famine and spread of infectious diseases.

Gaza: UN says no aid delivered in a month, warns of catastrophe

Terror group Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant- Khorasan (ISIL-K) is reported to have sought and obtained weapons from the banned Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP) stockpiles left in Afghanistan since the 2021 Taliban takeover, according to a UN report.

ISIL-K obtained weapons from TTP stockpiles left in Afghanistan since Taliban takeover: UN report

<p>The United Nations aid chief on Thursday came under fire following a TV interview where he said that Palestinian militant group Hamas was "not a terrorist group for us."</p>

<p>UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths, during an interview with Sky News on Wednesday (Feb 14), said, “I’ve worked with many, many different terrorist and insurgent groups, Hamas is not a terrorist group for us, of course, as you know. It’s a political movement.”</p>

<p>Griffiths made the remarks on being asked if it was reasonable for Israel to insist that Hamas never be a member of a future Palestinian government.</p>

<p>“It is very, very difficult to dislodge these groups without a negotiated solution which includes their aspirations,” he added.</p>

<p>“If you want to have safety and security with people who are gonna inevitably continue to be your neighbour in some form or another, you are going to have to create a relationship based on some shared values,” he said in the interview.</p>

<p>After facing the backlash, he took to&nbsp;social media and put out a post clarifying his comments in the interview.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Just to clarify: Hamas is not on the list of groups designated as terrorist organizations by the United Nations Security Council," Griffiths said in a post on X.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Just to clarify: Hamas is not on the list of groups designated as terrorist organizations by the United Nations Security Council.<br />
<br />
This doesn't make their acts of terror on 7 October any less horrific and reprehensible, as I've been saying all along.</p>
— Martin Griffiths (@UNReliefChief) <a href="https://twitter.com/UNReliefChief/status/1758177347969106311?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This doesn't make their acts of terror on 7 October any less horrific and reprehensible, as I've been saying all along," he added.</p>

<p>Later, the spokesman for secretary-general Antonio Guterres, in a press briefing, stressed that the top UN officials including Griffiths have condemned “abhorrent terrorist attack” by Hamas stating that “there could be no justification for them.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-killed-due-to-lack-of-medical-hospital-in-israel-raided-gaza-hospital-says-hamas-run-health-ministry-690999">Five killed due to lack of medical oxygen in Israel-raided Gaza hospital, says Hamas-run health ministry</a></p>

<p>“As we’ve said many times here, and the Secretary-General himself not too long ago, for the United Nations, the designation of an entity as a terrorist group or terrorist organization can only be made by the Security Council,” the spokesman, Stephane Dujarric, added.</p>

<h2><strong>'Shame on him'</strong></h2>

<p>Reacting to Griffiths’ comments about the Palestinian group, Israel's foreign minister Israel Katz took to his official X account and said, “Shame on him”.</p>

<p>Taking a dig at Griffiths and Guterres, Katz said, “The United Nations reaches new lows every day.”</p>

<p>“We will eliminate Hamas with or without them,” he vowed. “Jewish blood is not cheap.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israeli Ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan also slammed Griffiths, calling the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs “a terror-excusing, Hamas-promoting, victim-blaming organization.”</p>

<p>“The UN’s pro-Hamas stance is finally exposed on live TV,” Erdan wrote on X. “Is the brutal murder of hundreds of civilians, not terror? Is the systematic rape of women, not terror? Is attempting Jewish genocide not terror?, his post further read.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United Nations aid chief on Thursday came under fire following a TV interview where he said that Palestinian militant group Hamas was "not a terrorist group for us.

The United Nations aid chief on Thursday came under fire following a TV interview where he said that Palestinian militant group Hamas was "not a terrorist group for us." UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths, during an interview with Sky News on Wednesday (Feb 14), said, “I’ve worked with many, many different terrorist and insurgent groups, Hamas is not a terrorist group for us, of course, as you know. It’s a political movement.” Griffiths made the remarks on being asked if it was reasonable for Israel to insist that Hamas never be a member of a future Palestinian government. “It is very, very difficult to dislodge these groups without a negotiated solution which includes their aspirations,” he added. “If you want to have safety and security with people who are gonna inevitably continue to be your neighbour in some form or another, you are going to have to create a relationship based on some shared values,” he said in the interview. After facing the backlash, he took to social media and put out a post clarifying his comments in the interview. "Just to clarify: Hamas is not on the list of groups designated as terrorist organizations by the United Nations Security Council," Griffiths said in a post on X. Just to clarify: Hamas is not on the list of groups designated as terrorist organizations by the United Nations Security Council. This doesn't make their acts of terror on 7 October any less horrific and reprehensible, as I've been saying all along. — Martin Griffiths (@UNReliefChief) February 15, 2024 × "This doesn't make their acts of terror on 7 October any less horrific and reprehensible, as I've been saying all along," he added. Later, the spokesman for secretary-general Antonio Guterres, in a press briefing, stressed that the top UN officials including Griffiths have condemned “abhorrent terrorist attack” by Hamas stating that “there could be no justification for them.” Also read: Five killed due to lack of medical oxygen in Israel-raided Gaza hospital, says Hamas-run health ministry “As we’ve said many times here, and the Secretary-General himself not too long ago, for the United Nations, the designation of an entity as a terrorist group or terrorist organization can only be made by the Security Council,” the spokesman, Stephane Dujarric, added. 'Shame on him' Reacting to Griffiths’ comments about the Palestinian group, Israel's foreign minister Israel Katz took to his official X account and said, “Shame on him”. Taking a dig at Griffiths and Guterres, Katz said, “The United Nations reaches new lows every day.” “We will eliminate Hamas with or without them,” he vowed. “Jewish blood is not cheap.” Israeli Ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan also slammed Griffiths, calling the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs “a terror-excusing, Hamas-promoting, victim-blaming organization.” “The UN’s pro-Hamas stance is finally exposed on live TV,” Erdan wrote on X. “Is the brutal murder of hundreds of civilians, not terror? Is the systematic rape of women, not terror? Is attempting Jewish genocide not terror?, his post further read. (With inputs from agencies)

'Shame on him': Israel slams UN aid chief after he says ‘Hamas not terrorist group for us’

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid24ARPEQZxbB7" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>A United Nations (UN) committee said on Thursday (Feb 8) that Russia must end the forcible transfer of children from Ukraine and provide information about those already taken. According to a report by the news agency AFP, the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child pressed Moscow on deportation allegations levelled by Ukraine during a regular review of its record in Jan.</p>

<p>In its conclusions, the committee&nbsp;urged Russia to put an end to the forcible transfer or deportation of children from occupied Ukrainian territory. They demanded that Moscow provide information about the precise number of children taken from Ukraine and about the whereabouts of each child.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-mps-approve-use-of-dead-soldiers-sperm-in-landmark-vote-688043">Ukraine MPs approve use of dead soldiers' sperm in landmark vote</a></strong></p>

<p>This measure was needed so that parents "or legal representatives can track them, including through the identification of such children and registration of their parentage, and ensure that children are returned to their families and communities as soon as possible," the panel further said.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia rejects deportation claims</strong></h2>

<p>Since Russia launched its offensive against Ukraine in Feb 2022, Kyiv claimed that 20,000 children were forcibly transferred to Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called the action "a genocide."</p>

<p>Moscow has denied the allegation insisting that "placements for evacuated children are arranged, first and foremost, at their request and with their consent."</p>

<p>In March last year, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant against Russian President Vladimir Putin on the war crime accusation of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children. Similar allegations were levelled by the ICC against Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia's presidential commissioner for children's rights.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;War crimes of Russia-Ukraine war: Who's responsible? | Dark World</strong></p>

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<p>On Thursday, the UN panel expressed concerns about "the alleged responsibility of... Lvova-Belova, whose mandate is to protect children, in the war crime of unlawful deportation of children and that unlawful transfer of children from occupied areas of Ukraine" to Russia.</p>

<p>The panel demanded that Russia must investigate the allegations of war crimes against her.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, the panel further expressed concerns at reports that Ukrainian children residing even just temporarily in Russia "are deprived of their Ukrainian nationality in violation of their rights under the convention."</p>

<p>It highlighted the war's impact on children, and also the "killings and injuries of hundreds of (Ukrainian) children as a result of indiscriminate attacks... with explosive weapons."</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


A United Nations (UN) committee said on Thursday (Feb 8) that Russia must end the forcible transfer of children from Ukraine and provide information about those already taken.

A United Nations (UN) committee said on Thursday (Feb 8) that Russia must end the forcible transfer of children from Ukraine and provide information about those already taken. According to a report by the news agency AFP, the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child pressed Moscow on deportation allegations levelled by Ukraine during a regular review of its record in Jan. In its conclusions, the committee urged Russia to put an end to the forcible transfer or deportation of children from occupied Ukrainian territory. They demanded that Moscow provide information about the precise number of children taken from Ukraine and about the whereabouts of each child. Also read | Ukraine MPs approve use of dead soldiers' sperm in landmark vote This measure was needed so that parents "or legal representatives can track them, including through the identification of such children and registration of their parentage, and ensure that children are returned to their families and communities as soon as possible," the panel further said. Russia rejects deportation claims Since Russia launched its offensive against Ukraine in Feb 2022, Kyiv claimed that 20,000 children were forcibly transferred to Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called the action "a genocide." Moscow has denied the allegation insisting that "placements for evacuated children are arranged, first and foremost, at their request and with their consent." In March last year, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant against Russian President Vladimir Putin on the war crime accusation of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children. Similar allegations were levelled by the ICC against Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia's presidential commissioner for children's rights. Also watch | War crimes of Russia-Ukraine war: Who's responsible? | Dark World × On Thursday, the UN panel expressed concerns about "the alleged responsibility of... Lvova-Belova, whose mandate is to protect children, in the war crime of unlawful deportation of children and that unlawful transfer of children from occupied areas of Ukraine" to Russia. The panel demanded that Russia must investigate the allegations of war crimes against her. Moreover, the panel further expressed concerns at reports that Ukrainian children residing even just temporarily in Russia "are deprived of their Ukrainian nationality in violation of their rights under the convention." It highlighted the war's impact on children, and also the "killings and injuries of hundreds of (Ukrainian) children as a result of indiscriminate attacks... with explosive weapons."

Russia must end forcible transfer of children from Ukraine, says UN panel

<p>Israel’s intelligence agency in its six-page dossier has claimed that nearly 190 UNRWA employees, which also included teachers, have worked as Hamas or Islamic Jihad militants.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The allegations made by Israel against the UN Palestinian aid agency’s staff members for being involved in the October 7 attack have led to multiple countries halting funds for the UN agency. As reported by Reuters, the dossier contains names and pictures of 11 staff members who are facing the allegations.</p>

<p>UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric on Monday said that the international organisation has not received a copy of the dossier formally.</p>

<p>Israel has been accused by the Palestinians of falsifying information with the aim of tarnishing UNRWA, which they claimed has fired some staffers and has been investigating the allegations.</p>

<h2><strong>11 staff member&nbsp;names and pictures published in&nbsp;dossier</strong></h2>

<p>The dossier claimed that one among the 11 staff members whose names and pictures have been published is a school counsellor who is facing allegations of helping the son of one of the members&nbsp;in abducting a woman when Hamas militants infiltrated Israel on October 7 and killed 1,200 and kidnapped 253.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-vows-action-after-jordan-attack-releases-names-of-3-us-soldiers-killed-684938">Pentagon vows action after Jordan attack, releases names of 3 soldiers killed as Iran denies involvement</a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, another UNRWA social worker has been accused of being in some ways involved in the transfer of slain Israeli soldiers' corpses to Gaza and of carrying out coordination with the movements of pick-up trucks&nbsp;which were used for weapon supplies and by the raiders.</p>

<p>In the dossier, a third Palestinian has been accused of participating in a rampage in the Israeli border village Beeri, where one-tenth of residents were killed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another staff member is facing accusations of participating in an attack on Reim, which is a site where more than 360 revellers - who were part of a rave party - died and also the place where an army base was overrun.</p>

<p>Israel's Foreign Minister Israel Katz said that UNRWA head Philippe Lazzarini needs to resign.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US, Israel, Qatar officials meet in Paris for Gaza ceasefire talks</strong></p>

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<p>"UNRWA employees participated in the massacre of October 7. Lazzarini should draw conclusions and resign," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Israel has been accused by Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh of launching a "premeditated political attack" on the agency.</p>

<h2><strong>UNRWA&nbsp;'extremely desperate' as&nbsp;funding is halted</strong></h2>

<p>Amid more countries halting funding to the UN agency operating in Gaza, UNRWA claimed while speaking to BBC that it is "extremely desperate" and that "the humanitarian needs in Gaza are growing by the hour".</p>

<p>A UNRWA spokesperson said that if they failed to resume funding, the agency would not be able to continue its operations after the end of February.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Israel’s intelligence agency in its six-page dossier has claimed that nearly 190 UNRWA employees, which also included teachers, have worked as Hamas or Islamic Jihad militants.

Israel’s intelligence agency in its six-page dossier has claimed that nearly 190 UNRWA employees, which also included teachers, have worked as Hamas or Islamic Jihad militants. The allegations made by Israel against the UN Palestinian aid agency’s staff members for being involved in the October 7 attack have led to multiple countries halting funds for the UN agency. As reported by Reuters, the dossier contains names and pictures of 11 staff members who are facing the allegations. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric on Monday said that the international organisation has not received a copy of the dossier formally. Israel has been accused by the Palestinians of falsifying information with the aim of tarnishing UNRWA, which they claimed has fired some staffers and has been investigating the allegations. 11 staff member names and pictures published in dossier The dossier claimed that one among the 11 staff members whose names and pictures have been published is a school counsellor who is facing allegations of helping the son of one of the members in abducting a woman when Hamas militants infiltrated Israel on October 7 and killed 1,200 and kidnapped 253. Also read: Pentagon vows action after Jordan attack, releases names of 3 soldiers killed as Iran denies involvement Meanwhile, another UNRWA social worker has been accused of being in some ways involved in the transfer of slain Israeli soldiers' corpses to Gaza and of carrying out coordination with the movements of pick-up trucks which were used for weapon supplies and by the raiders. In the dossier, a third Palestinian has been accused of participating in a rampage in the Israeli border village Beeri, where one-tenth of residents were killed. Another staff member is facing accusations of participating in an attack on Reim, which is a site where more than 360 revellers - who were part of a rave party - died and also the place where an army base was overrun. Israel's Foreign Minister Israel Katz said that UNRWA head Philippe Lazzarini needs to resign. Watch: US, Israel, Qatar officials meet in Paris for Gaza ceasefire talks "UNRWA employees participated in the massacre of October 7. Lazzarini should draw conclusions and resign," he said. Meanwhile, Israel has been accused by Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh of launching a "premeditated political attack" on the agency. UNRWA 'extremely desperate' as funding is halted Amid more countries halting funding to the UN agency operating in Gaza, UNRWA claimed while speaking to BBC that it is "extremely desperate" and that "the humanitarian needs in Gaza are growing by the hour". A UNRWA spokesperson said that if they failed to resume funding, the agency would not be able to continue its operations after the end of February. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel alleges nearly 190 UN staff doubled up as Hamas or Islamic Jihad militants: Report

<p lang="en-US">Israel said that it will stop the operations of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees in Gaza once the war gets over, said a minister on Saturday (Jan 27) after several UNRWA staff were accused by Tel Aviv of being involved in Hamas's October 7 attack.</p>

<p lang="en-US">Taking to X, Israel Foreign Minister Israel Katz said that the country is aiming to ensure "UNRWA will not be a part of the day after", adding that he will try getting more support from the European Union, United States, and other major contributors to the agency.</p>

<p lang="en-US">Meanwhile, Palestinian militant group Hamas slammed the “threats” issued by Israel against UNRWA and appealed to the UN and other international organisations not to "cave in to the threats and blackmail".</p>

<p lang="en-US">"We ask the UN and the international organisations to not cave in to the threats and blackmail&nbsp;from Israel," said Hamas's press office, in a post on Telegram.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-hits-houthi-linked-anti-ship-missile-after-british-oil-tanker-comes-under-attack-684246">US hits Houthi-linked anti-ship missile after British oil tanker comes under attack</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">On Friday (Jan 26), the UNRWA said that it had sacked many employees who were accused of being involved in Hamas'&nbsp;unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel and led the United States to stop critical funding.</p>

<p lang="en-US">Head of the agency Philippe Lazzarini promised to hold "accountable, including through criminal prosecution" any UNRWA employee who is found to be involved in acts of terror.</p>

<p lang="en-US">Responding to the firing of employees, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also said that an "urgent and comprehensive independent review of UNRWA", will be conducted, as stated by his spokesman Stephane Dujarric.</p>

<p lang="en-US">The US State Department announced that it has "temporarily paused additional funding" to the agency while the claims are being reviewed by the officials. Twelve employees "may have been involved", it said.</p>

<p lang="en-US">Canada and Australia also temporarily suspended their funding to the agency.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>UK 'temporarily pausing' aid to UN agency</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">The UK government also announced that it will be "temporarily pausing any future funding" to the UN agency for Palestinian refugees.</p>

<p lang="en-US">"The UK is appalled by allegations that UNRWA staff were involved in the 7 October attack against Israel," said the Foreign Office said, further stating that the aid will be placed on hold while "we review these concerning allegations".</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Italy halts aid to UN agency for Palestinian refugees</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">Meanwhile, Italy also joined other countries in halting funding to the UN agency for Palestinian refugees.</p>

<p lang="en-US">Taking to X, Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said, "The Italian government has suspended financing UNRWA after the atrocious Hamas attack on October 7.”</p>

<p lang="en-US">"Allied countries have taken a similar decision. We are committed to providing humanitarian aid to the Palestinian population while protecting Israel's security," he said.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Top PLO official says stopping funding of UNRWA carries risks</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">The Palestine Liberation Organisation's Secretary General Hussein al-Sheikh said that the decision by a few countries to stop funding of the UN Relief Agency for Palestinians (UNRWA) carries some major political and relief risks.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Reactions to ICJ ruling on Israel's war in Gaza</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/reactions-to-icj-ruling-on-israels-war-in-gaza-684169/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p lang="en-US">“We call on countries that announced the cessation of their support for UNRWA to immediately reverse their decision,” al-Sheikh said, adding that it “entails great political and humanitarian relief risks, as at this particular time.”<br />
<br />
“We need the maximum support for this international organisation and not stopping support and assistance to it,” he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="en-US"><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Israel said that it will stop the operations of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees in Gaza once the war gets over, said a minister on Saturday (Jan 27) after several UNRWA staff were accused by Tel Aviv of being involved in Hamas's October 7 attack.

Israel said that it will stop the operations of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees in Gaza once the war gets over, said a minister on Saturday (Jan 27) after several UNRWA staff were accused by Tel Aviv of being involved in Hamas's October 7 attack. Taking to X, Israel Foreign Minister Israel Katz said that the country is aiming to ensure "UNRWA will not be a part of the day after", adding that he will try getting more support from the European Union, United States, and other major contributors to the agency. Meanwhile, Palestinian militant group Hamas slammed the “threats” issued by Israel against UNRWA and appealed to the UN and other international organisations not to "cave in to the threats and blackmail". "We ask the UN and the international organisations to not cave in to the threats and blackmail from Israel," said Hamas's press office, in a post on Telegram. Also read: US hits Houthi-linked anti-ship missile after British oil tanker comes under attack On Friday (Jan 26), the UNRWA said that it had sacked many employees who were accused of being involved in Hamas' unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel and led the United States to stop critical funding. Head of the agency Philippe Lazzarini promised to hold "accountable, including through criminal prosecution" any UNRWA employee who is found to be involved in acts of terror. Responding to the firing of employees, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also said that an "urgent and comprehensive independent review of UNRWA", will be conducted, as stated by his spokesman Stephane Dujarric. The US State Department announced that it has "temporarily paused additional funding" to the agency while the claims are being reviewed by the officials. Twelve employees "may have been involved", it said. Canada and Australia also temporarily suspended their funding to the agency. UK 'temporarily pausing' aid to UN agency The UK government also announced that it will be "temporarily pausing any future funding" to the UN agency for Palestinian refugees. "The UK is appalled by allegations that UNRWA staff were involved in the 7 October attack against Israel," said the Foreign Office said, further stating that the aid will be placed on hold while "we review these concerning allegations". Italy halts aid to UN agency for Palestinian refugees Meanwhile, Italy also joined other countries in halting funding to the UN agency for Palestinian refugees. Taking to X, Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said, "The Italian government has suspended financing UNRWA after the atrocious Hamas attack on October 7.” "Allied countries have taken a similar decision. We are committed to providing humanitarian aid to the Palestinian population while protecting Israel's security," he said. Top PLO official says stopping funding of UNRWA carries risks The Palestine Liberation Organisation's Secretary General Hussein al-Sheikh said that the decision by a few countries to stop funding of the UN Relief Agency for Palestinians (UNRWA) carries some major political and relief risks. Watch: Reactions to ICJ ruling on Israel's war in Gaza “We call on countries that announced the cessation of their support for UNRWA to immediately reverse their decision,” al-Sheikh said, adding that it “entails great political and humanitarian relief risks, as at this particular time.” “We need the maximum support for this international organisation and not stopping support and assistance to it,” he said. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel warns will end UN agency’s operations in Gaza, nations halt aid over Oct 7 allegations

<p lang="en-US">The International Court of Justice&nbsp; (ICJ), top court of the United Nations on Friday (Jan 26) said that it is under its jurisdiction to rule over emergency measures as appealed by South Africa in the genocide case filed against Israel, in the wake of its ongoing war in Gaza.<br />
<br />
It further said that Israel must punish people for committing genocide in Gaza and should immediately stop its attacks. The court further asked Israel to submit a report on the steps taken by the country to comply with its orders within one month.</p>

<p lang="en-US">The court said that it would not abide by Israel's request to throw out the case. The top court further said that some rights which have been sought by South Africa in its case are plausible.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-uns-top-court-to-hand-down-its-ruling-in-gaza-genocide-case-against-israel-on-friday-what-is-it-683591">Explained: UN's top court to hand down ruling in Gaza 'genocide case' against Israel on Friday. What is it?</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">The ICJ&nbsp;added that it recognises Palestinians' right to be protected from acts of genocide in Gaza but stopped short of ordering a ceasefire. It added that under the genocide convention, Palestinians appear to be a protected group.</p>

<p lang="en-US">The court ordered Israel to allow flow of more humanitarian aid into the besieged Gaza Strip. It ruled that Israel must take "immediate and effective measures to enable the provision of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance to address the adverse conditions of life faced by Palestinians.”</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Israel must prevent actions violating Genocide Convention: ICJ</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">In its ruling, the ICJ said that it has taken into account the Israeli defence minister's comments regarding 'human animals' in Gaza.&nbsp;The court ruled that some of the acts and omissions committed by Israel are under the Genocide Convention's provisions. ICJ said that no evidence of genocide in Gaza must be destroyed.<br />
<br />
The International Court of Justice has further ordered Israel to take all possible measures to prevent genocide and any kind of actions which fall under the scope of the Genocide Convention.<br />
<br />
A case was filed by South Africa against Israel in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in December, in which they had alleged that the devastating offensive against Hamas, in which 25,700 people were killed, amounted to state-led genocide and had breached the UN’s genocide convention, which was signed in 1948 in response to the Holocaust.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: ICJ to rule genocide case against Israel</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-icj-to-rule-genocide-case-against-israel-683730/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p lang="en-US">South Africa has appealed to the ICJ to impose nine orders on Israel which include immediate suspension of military activity and prove more access to humanitarian aid to war-torn Gaza.<br />
<br />
In the hearings, Israel has argued that a ceasefire will be unrealistic as the court can only give orders to one party since Hamas is not part of the court proceedings.<br />
<br />
On the eve of the ruling, Hamas had stated that it would abide by the ceasefire order if Israel also agreed to do the same.<br />
<br />
The ICJ's ruling over the genocide case became the most watched in the history of the court.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The International Court of Justice (ICJ), top court of the United Nations on Friday (Jan 26) said that it is under its jurisdiction to rule over emergency measures as appealed by South Africa in the genocide case filed against Israel, in the wake of its ongoing war in Gaza.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ), top court of the United Nations on Friday (Jan 26) said that it is under its jurisdiction to rule over emergency measures as appealed by South Africa in the genocide case filed against Israel, in the wake of its ongoing war in Gaza. It further said that Israel must punish people for committing genocide in Gaza and should immediately stop its attacks. The court further asked Israel to submit a report on the steps taken by the country to comply with its orders within one month. The court said that it would not abide by Israel's request to throw out the case. The top court further said that some rights which have been sought by South Africa in its case are plausible. Also read: Explained: UN's top court to hand down ruling in Gaza 'genocide case' against Israel on Friday. What is it? The ICJ added that it recognises Palestinians' right to be protected from acts of genocide in Gaza but stopped short of ordering a ceasefire. It added that under the genocide convention, Palestinians appear to be a protected group. The court ordered Israel to allow flow of more humanitarian aid into the besieged Gaza Strip. It ruled that Israel must take "immediate and effective measures to enable the provision of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance to address the adverse conditions of life faced by Palestinians.” Israel must prevent actions violating Genocide Convention: ICJ In its ruling, the ICJ said that it has taken into account the Israeli defence minister's comments regarding 'human animals' in Gaza. The court ruled that some of the acts and omissions committed by Israel are under the Genocide Convention's provisions. ICJ said that no evidence of genocide in Gaza must be destroyed. The International Court of Justice has further ordered Israel to take all possible measures to prevent genocide and any kind of actions which fall under the scope of the Genocide Convention. A case was filed by South Africa against Israel in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in December, in which they had alleged that the devastating offensive against Hamas, in which 25,700 people were killed, amounted to state-led genocide and had breached the UN’s genocide convention, which was signed in 1948 in response to the Holocaust. Watch: Israel-Hamas War: ICJ to rule genocide case against Israel South Africa has appealed to the ICJ to impose nine orders on Israel which include immediate suspension of military activity and prove more access to humanitarian aid to war-torn Gaza. In the hearings, Israel has argued that a ceasefire will be unrealistic as the court can only give orders to one party since Hamas is not part of the court proceedings. On the eve of the ruling, Hamas had stated that it would abide by the ceasefire order if Israel also agreed to do the same. The ICJ's ruling over the genocide case became the most watched in the history of the court. (With inputs from agencies)

Top UN court orders Israel to take steps to prevent genocide in Gaza, report back in a month

<p>China was fiercely criticised by the United States, United Kingdom and several other countries at a UN meeting on Tuesday (Jan 23) over its chequered human rights record in its restive regions of Xinjiang, Tibet as well as its Special Administrative Region of Hong Kong.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UK called on China to "cease the persecution and arbitrary detention of Uyghurs and Tibetans and allow genuine freedom of religion or belief and cultural expression without fear of surveillance, torture, forced labour or sexual violence", while the US said China should "release all arbitrarily detained individuals” and cease the operation of "forcible assimilation policies including boarding schools in Tibet and Xinjiang".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-chinas-exit-bans-prevent-tibetans-from-visiting-dalai-lama-in-india-safeguard-defenders-to-wion-588212">Exclusive: China's exit bans prevent Tibetans from visiting Dalai Lama in India - Safeguard Defenders to WION</a></strong></p>

<p>Each country at the UN headquarters in Geneva was given 45 seconds to make recommendations as part of the UN Human Rights Council's universal periodic review.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is a mechanism by which the 193 United Nations member states review each others' human rights records every five years.</p>

<h2><strong>Drop Jimmy Lai's prosecution: UK urges China</strong></h2>

<p>The UK also recommended that the national security law in Hong Kong be repealed. London also specifically urged Beijing to drop the persecution of the pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-the-national-security-trial-against-jimmy-lai-hong-kongs-pro-democracy-media-mogul-670940">Explained | What is the national security trial against Jimmy Lai, Hong Kong’s pro-democracy media mogul?</a></strong></p>

<p>Some 163 countries spoke at the Tuesday session.</p>

<p>A UN report published in August 2022 found that China was committing "serious human rights violations" against Uyghurs in Xinjiang. Beijing had described it as "disinformation".</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;China's human rights record condemned at UN</strong></p>

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<p>Washington's envoy Ambassador Michèle Taylor repeated the accusation of genocide in Xinjiang.</p>

<p>"We condemn the ongoing genocide and crimes against humanity in Xinjiang and trans-national repression to silence individuals abroad," Taylor said.</p>

<h2><strong>China's response</strong></h2>

<p>While responding to the recommendations, China's UN ambassador, Chen Xu, said that concerns of the countries were caused by "misunderstanding or misinformation".</p>

<p>Chen said: "A few countries groundlessly accuse and smear China, based not on facts but on ideological bias and unfounded rumours and lies."</p>

<p>Bhutan, India's neighbour in the northeast said: "We commend the significant progress in poverty alleviation and the achievement of the poverty reduction target of the 2030 agenda ahead of schedule."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


China was fiercely criticised by the United States, United Kingdom and several other countries at a UN meeting on Tuesday (Jan 23) over its chequered human rights record in its restive regions of Xinjiang, Tibet as well as its Special Administrative Region of Hong Kong.

China was fiercely criticised by the United States, United Kingdom and several other countries at a UN meeting on Tuesday (Jan 23) over its chequered human rights record in its restive regions of Xinjiang, Tibet as well as its Special Administrative Region of Hong Kong. The UK called on China to "cease the persecution and arbitrary detention of Uyghurs and Tibetans and allow genuine freedom of religion or belief and cultural expression without fear of surveillance, torture, forced labour or sexual violence", while the US said China should "release all arbitrarily detained individuals” and cease the operation of "forcible assimilation policies including boarding schools in Tibet and Xinjiang". Also read | Exclusive: China's exit bans prevent Tibetans from visiting Dalai Lama in India - Safeguard Defenders to WION Each country at the UN headquarters in Geneva was given 45 seconds to make recommendations as part of the UN Human Rights Council's universal periodic review. It is a mechanism by which the 193 United Nations member states review each others' human rights records every five years. Drop Jimmy Lai's prosecution: UK urges China The UK also recommended that the national security law in Hong Kong be repealed. London also specifically urged Beijing to drop the persecution of the pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai. Also read | Explained | What is the national security trial against Jimmy Lai, Hong Kong’s pro-democracy media mogul? Some 163 countries spoke at the Tuesday session. A UN report published in August 2022 found that China was committing "serious human rights violations" against Uyghurs in Xinjiang. Beijing had described it as "disinformation". Also watch | China's human rights record condemned at UN × Washington's envoy Ambassador Michèle Taylor repeated the accusation of genocide in Xinjiang. "We condemn the ongoing genocide and crimes against humanity in Xinjiang and trans-national repression to silence individuals abroad," Taylor said. China's response While responding to the recommendations, China's UN ambassador, Chen Xu, said that concerns of the countries were caused by "misunderstanding or misinformation". Chen said: "A few countries groundlessly accuse and smear China, based not on facts but on ideological bias and unfounded rumours and lies." Bhutan, India's neighbour in the northeast said: "We commend the significant progress in poverty alleviation and the achievement of the poverty reduction target of the 2030 agenda ahead of schedule." (With inputs from agencies)

China slammed at UN for human rights abuses, repression of democracy in Hong Kong

<p>Hafiz Saeed, the Pakistan-based terrorist and mastermind of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, is serving a 78-year prison sentence in Pakistan, the United Nations said in its updated information.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Saeed is facing conviction in seven terror financing cases.</p>

<p>Saeed, designated as a global terrorist by the UN Security Council's 1267 Al-Qaida Sanctions Committee in December 2008, is "in (the) custody of the Government of Pakistan, serving a 78-year imprisonment sentence since 12 February 2020 as a result of conviction in seven terror financing cases," the committee said in an amended entry.</p>

<h2><strong>So is Pakistan acting against terror?</strong></h2>

<p>Pakistan continues to foster terror to infiltrate terrorists across the Line of Control into India's Jammu and Kashmir. While the cross-border infiltrations have decreased since August 2019 when India abrogated the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, dozens of terrorist training camps continue to remain active in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Besides, Hafiz Saeed's son Talha Saeed is set to contest in Pakistan's national elections scheduled to be held in February 2024.</p>

<p>Talha is a candidate from a constituency in Lahore from the radical Pakistan Markazi Muslim League (PMML) party.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-imran-khans-election-nomination-rejected-from-two-constituencies-675068">Pakistan: Imran Khan’s election nomination rejected from two constituencies</a></strong></p>

<p>Interestingly, former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan too was a candidate from the same constituency, Lahore's NA-122, before his candidature was declared null and void by Pakistan's election commission.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Considered number 2 in Lashkar-e-Taeba (LeT), second only to his father, Talha is designated a terrorist in India under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA).</p>

<p>New Delhi's repeated attempts to get Hafiz Talha designated as a terrorist with the UN have been <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-china-bolsters-pakistans-terror-infrastructure-as-world-remembers-2611-victims-662761">blocked by China</a>.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">MEA on Hafiz Saeed's son Talha Saeed standing for elections: Issue of radical elements being normalised, &amp; participating in elections. Mainstreaming of radical elements outfits in Pakistan is nothing new &amp; part of the state policy for a long time. It has security implications <a href="https://t.co/ODtxySyF2c">https://t.co/ODtxySyF2c</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1740725773487706174?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>India's foreign ministry described Talha's electioneering in Pakistan as a 'mainstreaming of radical elements' and its subsequent normalisation.</p>

<h2><strong>What else did the UN say?</strong></h2>

<p>The UN Sanctions Committee also noted that Hafiz Abdul Salam Bhuttavi, founding member of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Saeed's deputy, is "confirmed deceased."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Who is killing terrorists in Pakistan?</strong></p>

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<p>Bhuttavi was a&nbsp;UN-designated terrorist who trained the Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists, including Ajmal Amir Kasab&nbsp;for the 2008 Mumbai terror attack and acted as the terror outfit's chief on at least two occasions.</p>

<p>He died in prison in May last year in Pakistan's Punjab province. Bhuttavi was serving a sentence for terror financing.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Hafiz Saeed, the Pakistan-based terrorist and mastermind of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, is serving a 78-year prison sentence in Pakistan, the United Nations said in its updated information.

Hafiz Saeed, the Pakistan-based terrorist and mastermind of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, is serving a 78-year prison sentence in Pakistan, the United Nations said in its updated information. Saeed is facing conviction in seven terror financing cases. Saeed, designated as a global terrorist by the UN Security Council's 1267 Al-Qaida Sanctions Committee in December 2008, is "in (the) custody of the Government of Pakistan, serving a 78-year imprisonment sentence since 12 February 2020 as a result of conviction in seven terror financing cases," the committee said in an amended entry. So is Pakistan acting against terror? Pakistan continues to foster terror to infiltrate terrorists across the Line of Control into India's Jammu and Kashmir. While the cross-border infiltrations have decreased since August 2019 when India abrogated the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, dozens of terrorist training camps continue to remain active in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Besides, Hafiz Saeed's son Talha Saeed is set to contest in Pakistan's national elections scheduled to be held in February 2024. Talha is a candidate from a constituency in Lahore from the radical Pakistan Markazi Muslim League (PMML) party. Also read | Pakistan: Imran Khan’s election nomination rejected from two constituencies Interestingly, former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan too was a candidate from the same constituency, Lahore's NA-122, before his candidature was declared null and void by Pakistan's election commission. Considered number 2 in Lashkar-e-Taeba (LeT), second only to his father, Talha is designated a terrorist in India under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). New Delhi's repeated attempts to get Hafiz Talha designated as a terrorist with the UN have been blocked by China. MEA on Hafiz Saeed's son Talha Saeed standing for elections: Issue of radical elements being normalised, & participating in elections. Mainstreaming of radical elements outfits in Pakistan is nothing new & part of the state policy for a long time. It has security implications https://t.co/ODtxySyF2c — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) December 29, 2023 × India's foreign ministry described Talha's electioneering in Pakistan as a 'mainstreaming of radical elements' and its subsequent normalisation. What else did the UN say? The UN Sanctions Committee also noted that Hafiz Abdul Salam Bhuttavi, founding member of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Saeed's deputy, is "confirmed deceased." Also watch | Gravitas: Who is killing terrorists in Pakistan? × Bhuttavi was a UN-designated terrorist who trained the Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists, including Ajmal Amir Kasab for the 2008 Mumbai terror attack and acted as the terror outfit's chief on at least two occasions. He died in prison in May last year in Pakistan's Punjab province. Bhuttavi was serving a sentence for terror financing. (With inputs from agencies)

Terrorist Hafiz Saeed is serving 78-year prison sentence in Pakistan: UN

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