Top United Nations human rights official has voiced “deep alarm” over the series of attacks on communities in central Nigeria, which left at least 160 people dead and many more injured. President Bola Tinubu has ordered a probe into the attacks that occurred in Plateau state.

Nigeria: Massacre in the plateau

In a major development from Yemen, the warring parties in the long-running conflict in the Middle Eastern country committed to a new ceasefire and also agreed to engage in a UN-led peace process that would put an end to the fighting, the UN special envoy for Yemen released a statement saying on Saturday (Dec 23).

The envoy, Hans Grundberg, "welcomes the parties' commitment to a set of measures to implement a nation-wide ceasefire, improve living conditions in Yemen, and engage in preparations for the resumption of an inclusive political process under UN auspices," he said in a statement.&nbsp;

The decision was announced after a series of meetings with the parties in Saudi Arabia and Oman.

Yemen has been under the grip of the conflict since Iran-backed Houthis seized control of the capital Sanaa in the year 2014, which further triggered a Saudi-led military intervention in support of the beleaguered government the following year.

Last year, the United Nations brokered a ceasefire deal that came into effect in the month of April which further brought a sharp reduction in hostilities. The truce deal expired in October last year, though fighting largely remains on hold.

Grundberg will now "engage with the parties to establish a roadmap under UN auspices" that includes these commitments.

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"Yemenis are watching and waiting for this new opportunity to provide for tangible results and progress towards lasting peace," Grundberg said.

"The parties have taken a significant step. Their commitments are, first and foremost, an obligation to the Yemeni people."

<h2>Red Sea attacks</h2>

The development comes in the midst of a series of attacks by Houthi rebels targeting key shipping lanes in the Red Sea in solidarity with Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

The Houthis have pledged to attack Israel-linked vessels or ships heading to Israeli ports unless an end is brought to the Israel-Hamas war that started on Oct 7.

As per the Pentagon, they have launched more than 100 drone and missile attacks, targeting 10 merchant vessels involving more than 35 different countries.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a major development from Yemen, the warring parties in the long-running conflict in the Middle Eastern country committed to a new ceasefire and also agreed to engage in a UN-led peace process that would put an end to the fighting, the UN special envoy for Yemen released a statement saying on Saturday (Dec 23).

In a major development from Yemen, the warring parties in the long-running conflict in the Middle Eastern country committed to a new ceasefire and also agreed to engage in a UN-led peace process that would put an end to the fighting, the UN special envoy for Yemen released a statement saying on Saturday (Dec 23). The envoy, Hans Grundberg, "welcomes the parties' commitment to a set of measures to implement a nation-wide ceasefire, improve living conditions in Yemen, and engage in preparations for the resumption of an inclusive political process under UN auspices," he said in a statement. The decision was announced after a series of meetings with the parties in Saudi Arabia and Oman. Yemen has been under the grip of the conflict since Iran-backed Houthis seized control of the capital Sanaa in the year 2014, which further triggered a Saudi-led military intervention in support of the beleaguered government the following year. Last year, the United Nations brokered a ceasefire deal that came into effect in the month of April which further brought a sharp reduction in hostilities. The truce deal expired in October last year, though fighting largely remains on hold. Grundberg will now "engage with the parties to establish a roadmap under UN auspices" that includes these commitments. Also read: Missile strike hits merchant ship off India's coast; crew includes 21 Indians "Yemenis are watching and waiting for this new opportunity to provide for tangible results and progress towards lasting peace," Grundberg said. "The parties have taken a significant step. Their commitments are, first and foremost, an obligation to the Yemeni people." Red Sea attacks The development comes in the midst of a series of attacks by Houthi rebels targeting key shipping lanes in the Red Sea in solidarity with Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. The Houthis have pledged to attack Israel-linked vessels or ships heading to Israeli ports unless an end is brought to the Israel-Hamas war that started on Oct 7. As per the Pentagon, they have launched more than 100 drone and missile attacks, targeting 10 merchant vessels involving more than 35 different countries. (With inputs from agencies)

Yemen's warring parties commit to new ceasefire, agree to UN-led peace process

A North Korean nuclear reactor at the country's Yongbyon complex appears to be operating for the very first time, said the UN nuclear watchdog and independent experts on Thursday (Dec 21).

This indicates an additional potential source of plutonium for nuclear weapons.

North Korea for years has been using spent fuel from a 5-megawatt nuclear reactor at Yongbyon to produce plutonium for its nuclear arsenal but a telltale discharge of warm water from a larger light-water reactor suggests it is coming online, too, said the International Atomic Energy Agency in a statement.

"The discharge of warm water is indicative the reactor has reached criticality," IAEA chief Rafael Grossi said in a statement, meaning the nuclear chain reaction in the reactor is self-sustaining.

The IAEA lost access to North Korea since Pyongyang expelled its inspectors in the year 2009. The agency now observes the country mainly using satellite imagery.

Grossi further added that without the access, it was difficult for the IAEA to confirm the operational status of the reactor.

The IAEA in a statement said that it had recorded a strong outflow of water from the light-water reactor's cooling system since October, suggesting ongoing commissioning of the reactor.&nbsp;

Grossi further elucidating on the current status, said that there were recent indications pointing out that the water was warm.

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"The LWR, like any nuclear reactor, can produce plutonium in its irradiated fuel, which can be separated during reprocessing, so this is a cause for concern," he said, adding that the advancement of North Korea's nuclear program was "deeply regrettable".

<h2>Surge in Plutonium</h2>

The researchers at the James Martain Center for Nonproliferation Studies (CNS) in California also concluded that the reactor was most likely operating, adding that it may be "a significant source of nuclear material" for the nuclear weapons program, which is banned by United Nations Security Council resolutions.&nbsp;

In the report that came out in the month of April, the DC-based Institute for Science and International Security estimated the light-water reactor "could allow a surge in plutonium quantities at an estimated rate of about 20 kilograms of plutonium per year, a rate of four to five times larger than that of the small adjacent reactor".

The study suggested that North Korea may have anywhere from 31 to 96 nuclear warheads, depending on the types of devices being built and which fuel is being used.

(With inputs from agencies)

A North Korean nuclear reactor at the country's Yongbyon complex appears to be operating for the very first time, said the UN nuclear watchdog and independent experts on Thursday (Dec 21).

A North Korean nuclear reactor at the country's Yongbyon complex appears to be operating for the very first time, said the UN nuclear watchdog and independent experts on Thursday (Dec 21). This indicates an additional potential source of plutonium for nuclear weapons. North Korea for years has been using spent fuel from a 5-megawatt nuclear reactor at Yongbyon to produce plutonium for its nuclear arsenal but a telltale discharge of warm water from a larger light-water reactor suggests it is coming online, too, said the International Atomic Energy Agency in a statement. "The discharge of warm water is indicative the reactor has reached criticality," IAEA chief Rafael Grossi said in a statement, meaning the nuclear chain reaction in the reactor is self-sustaining. The IAEA lost access to North Korea since Pyongyang expelled its inspectors in the year 2009. The agency now observes the country mainly using satellite imagery. Grossi further added that without the access, it was difficult for the IAEA to confirm the operational status of the reactor. The IAEA in a statement said that it had recorded a strong outflow of water from the light-water reactor's cooling system since October, suggesting ongoing commissioning of the reactor. Grossi further elucidating on the current status, said that there were recent indications pointing out that the water was warm. Also read: Hong Kong court refuses to drop sedition charges against pro-democracy tycoon Jimmy Lai "The LWR, like any nuclear reactor, can produce plutonium in its irradiated fuel, which can be separated during reprocessing, so this is a cause for concern," he said, adding that the advancement of North Korea's nuclear program was "deeply regrettable". Surge in Plutonium The researchers at the James Martain Center for Nonproliferation Studies (CNS) in California also concluded that the reactor was most likely operating, adding that it may be "a significant source of nuclear material" for the nuclear weapons program, which is banned by United Nations Security Council resolutions. In the report that came out in the month of April, the DC-based Institute for Science and International Security estimated the light-water reactor "could allow a surge in plutonium quantities at an estimated rate of about 20 kilograms of plutonium per year, a rate of four to five times larger than that of the small adjacent reactor". The study suggested that North Korea may have anywhere from 31 to 96 nuclear warheads, depending on the types of devices being built and which fuel is being used. (With inputs from agencies)

Second North Korean nuclear reactor appears to be operating, says IAEA

The United Nations says Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine has driven more than 5 million people from their homes, many of them older adults. Now, some are finding safe places to live thanks to the American charity 'to Ukraine with love' and a community called 'miracle village.'

Russia's invasion drives Ukrainians out of homes, American charity comes to rescue

United Nations General Assembly has once again voted overwhelmingly in favour of Gaza ceasefire. 153 nations called for immediate ceasefire while only 10 nations voted in against.

Israel-Hamas War: UN General Assembly votes overwhelmingly in favour of ceasefire in Gaza

The United Nations on Monday (Dec 11) officially concluded its decade-old deployment in Mali, its spokesperson released a statement saying, in a move that Mali's military leaders ordered.&nbsp;

The mission, which was also known as MINUSMA, lowered the United Nations flag on its headquarters in the capital Bamako, its spokesperson Fatoumata Kaba told the news agency AFP.

She further said that this symbolic ceremony marked the end of the mission. However, some elements of it are still there, she added.

A "liquidation phase" is scheduled for Jan 1, 2024, where activities like handing over the remaining equipment to the authorities will occur.

<h2>UN troops' departure won't be delayed: Mali junta</h2>

Earlier, Malian foreign minister Abdoulaye Diop had released a statement saying that the withdrawal of United Nations peacekeepers from northern Mali would not be delayed and would happen on time by December 31.&nbsp;

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The UN expressed concerns that its drawdown may get hampered by an uptick in fighting in the northern part of the country.

"Everything must be done to ensure the work of MINUSMA is ended by December 31," Diop had said in a video posted on social media on Saturday evening.

"The government does not foresee any extension of this deadline," he said in the recording of comments he made to a meeting of the diplomatic corps in the capital, Bamako.

Mali's ruling junta took over power in the year 2020 and demanded the departure of the mission in the month of June which has been deployed since 2013.

The withdrawal of the United Nations stabilisation mission, MINUSMA, ignited fears that the fighting between the troops and armed factions would heighten over territorial control.&nbsp;

MINUSMA for a decade had maintained around 15,000 soldiers and police in Mali. The hostile acts had claimed the lives of around 180 members.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PressRelease?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PressRelease</a> - Closure of the MINUSMA camp in Sevare, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mopti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mopti</a> region. 
 
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As of Friday, more than 10,500 uniformed and civilian MINUSMA personnel had left Mali, out of a total of around 13,800 staff at the start of the withdrawal, the UN mission said on X.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The United Nations on Monday (Dec 11) officially concluded its decade-old deployment in Mali, its spokesperson released a statement saying, in a move that Mali's military leaders ordered.

The United Nations on Monday (Dec 11) officially concluded its decade-old deployment in Mali, its spokesperson released a statement saying, in a move that Mali's military leaders ordered. The mission, which was also known as MINUSMA, lowered the United Nations flag on its headquarters in the capital Bamako, its spokesperson Fatoumata Kaba told the news agency AFP. She further said that this symbolic ceremony marked the end of the mission. However, some elements of it are still there, she added. A "liquidation phase" is scheduled for Jan 1, 2024, where activities like handing over the remaining equipment to the authorities will occur. UN troops' departure won't be delayed: Mali junta Earlier, Malian foreign minister Abdoulaye Diop had released a statement saying that the withdrawal of United Nations peacekeepers from northern Mali would not be delayed and would happen on time by December 31. Also read: At least 4 injured after airstrike on Kyiv; Biden to host Zelensky at W. House The UN expressed concerns that its drawdown may get hampered by an uptick in fighting in the northern part of the country. "Everything must be done to ensure the work of MINUSMA is ended by December 31," Diop had said in a video posted on social media on Saturday evening. "The government does not foresee any extension of this deadline," he said in the recording of comments he made to a meeting of the diplomatic corps in the capital, Bamako. Mali's ruling junta took over power in the year 2020 and demanded the departure of the mission in the month of June which has been deployed since 2013. The withdrawal of the United Nations stabilisation mission, MINUSMA, ignited fears that the fighting between the troops and armed factions would heighten over territorial control. MINUSMA for a decade had maintained around 15,000 soldiers and police in Mali. The hostile acts had claimed the lives of around 180 members. #PressRelease - Closure of the MINUSMA camp in Sevare, #Mopti region. 📖👉🏿 https://t.co/QWZ3HOxNof — MINUSMA (@UN_MINUSMA) December 9, 2023 × As of Friday, more than 10,500 uniformed and civilian MINUSMA personnel had left Mali, out of a total of around 13,800 staff at the start of the withdrawal, the UN mission said on X. (With inputs from agencies)

UN mission in Mali officially concludes 10-year deployment

The United Nations is stressing that South Sudan must secure public confidence to ensure that its first post-independence elections in December 2024 will be held peacefully.

Road to South Sudan 2024 polls | World Of Africa

In a rare move, North Korea's ambassador appeared at the UN Security Council on Monday (Nov 27) and defended his country's launch of a spy rocket satellite, calling it an act of self-defence.

This came after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspected the photos of "major target regions", including that of the White House and Pentagon.

Countries like South Korea and Japan have said that Pyongyang breached Security Council resolutions by launching the spy satellite earlier this week.

North Korea earlier said that its latest satellite has captured and sent across images of major US and South Korean military sites, as well as photos of the Italian capital Rome.&nbsp;

As per the state-run KCNA news agency, the satellite took "in detail" images of the White House and the Pentagon in Washington which Kim later studied.

The report further said that he had also counted the number of aircraft carriers at a military base and a shipyard in the neighbouring state of Virginia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-leader-kim-jong-un-inspects-photos-of-major-target-regions-taken-by-spy-satellite-662596">North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspects photos of ‘major target regions’ taken by spy satellite</a>

<h2>No other countries face restrictions on satellites, says Kim Song</h2>

North Korea's ambassador to the United Nations, Kim Song, at the Security Council, expressed disappointment over no other country facing restrictions over satellites.

"No other nation in the world is in the security environment as critical as the DPRK," said Kim, using the North's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

"One belligerent party, the United States, is threatening us with a nuclear weapon," he said.

"It is a legitimate right for the DPRK as another belligerent party to develop, test, manufacture and possess weapons systems equivalent to those that the United States possesses or is developing."

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Mocking US charges, he stated that the satellite technology also assisted North Korea in sharpening its projectile capability, tauntingly remarking if the United States put satellites into orbit "with a catapult."

The US ambassador, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, rebuffed North Korea's claim that it was acting in self-defence and said that joint US-South Korean exercises were "routine" and "defensive in nature".

"We intentionally reduce risk and pursue transparency by announcing the exercises in advance including the dates and the activities, unlike the DPRK," she said, adding that the drills did not violate Security Council resolutions.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a rare move, North Korea's ambassador appeared at the UN Security Council on Monday (Nov 27) and defended his country's launch of a spy rocket satellite, calling it an act of self-defence.

In a rare move, North Korea's ambassador appeared at the UN Security Council on Monday (Nov 27) and defended his country's launch of a spy rocket satellite, calling it an act of self-defence. This came after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspected the photos of "major target regions", including that of the White House and Pentagon. Countries like South Korea and Japan have said that Pyongyang breached Security Council resolutions by launching the spy satellite earlier this week. North Korea earlier said that its latest satellite has captured and sent across images of major US and South Korean military sites, as well as photos of the Italian capital Rome. As per the state-run KCNA news agency, the satellite took "in detail" images of the White House and the Pentagon in Washington which Kim later studied. The report further said that he had also counted the number of aircraft carriers at a military base and a shipyard in the neighbouring state of Virginia. Also read: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspects photos of ‘major target regions’ taken by spy satellite No other countries face restrictions on satellites, says Kim Song North Korea's ambassador to the United Nations, Kim Song, at the Security Council, expressed disappointment over no other country facing restrictions over satellites. "No other nation in the world is in the security environment as critical as the DPRK," said Kim, using the North's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. "One belligerent party, the United States, is threatening us with a nuclear weapon," he said. "It is a legitimate right for the DPRK as another belligerent party to develop, test, manufacture and possess weapons systems equivalent to those that the United States possesses or is developing." Also read: North Korea rocket stage exploded after separation during launch, video suggests Mocking US charges, he stated that the satellite technology also assisted North Korea in sharpening its projectile capability, tauntingly remarking if the United States put satellites into orbit "with a catapult." The US ambassador, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, rebuffed North Korea's claim that it was acting in self-defence and said that joint US-South Korean exercises were "routine" and "defensive in nature". "We intentionally reduce risk and pursue transparency by announcing the exercises in advance including the dates and the activities, unlike the DPRK," she said, adding that the drills did not violate Security Council resolutions. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea makes rare appearance at UN, defends spy satellite launch after Kim inspects White House images

The United Nations said on Friday (Nov 18) that more than 26,000 people were displaced in Myanmar's Rakhine state as the war between the military junta and ethnic groups rages on.

The United Nations said on Friday (Nov 18) that more than 26,000 people were displaced in Myanmar's Rakhine state as the war between the military junta and ethnic groups rages on. In an update, the United Nations Office of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) said that fresh clashes between the Arakan Army (AA) and the military "resulted in the displacement of 26,175 people" across Rakhine, the news agency AFP reported. On Monday, AA fighters launched attacks on security personnel in Rakhine and neighbouring Chin state, ending a ceasefire and opening another front as the military battled opponents in the north and the east. The UNOCHA said that at least 11 people had been killed in military shelling of AA positions since Monday. The UN agency also said that virtually all roads and waterways connecting Rakhine townships had been blocked, and most humanitarian activities in affected townships had been suspended. Over 100 detained by junta since renewed clashes Over 100 people were reportedly detained by the junta since the renewed clashes. Also read: Over 5,000 Myanmar refugees including soldiers flee to India's Mizoram for refuge amid border clashes Since late October, AA fighters in alliance with the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance (MNDAA) and the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) seized towns and blocked vital trade routes to Myanmar's northern neighbour. The civil war has also spread to Myanmar's western and eastern borders. According to analysts, this is the biggest military challenge to the junta since 2021, when it ousted the civilian government of Aung San Suu Kyi. UN urges humane treatment of captured soldiers The UN said on Friday that soldiers captured amid the ongoing civil war should be treated humanely. "Individual soldiers are not collectively responsible for crimes and human rights violations that have been committed by the military," UN rights office spokesperson Jeremy Laurence told reporters in Geneva. "It is essential that all those captured are treated humanely," he added. "Amidst rapidly changing circumstances on the ground, it is imperative that all parties strictly respect international human rights law and international humanitarian law, particularly to protect civilians," the UN official further said and pointed out that he was particularly alarmed by renewed fighting between the military and AA in Rakhine. (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar civil war: UN says fresh clashes in Rakhine displaced over 26,000

The United Nations' top court its ordered the Syrian government to stop its torture program.

UN's top court orders Syria to stop torture

The Netherlands & Canada accuse Syria of year-long torture

The United Nations top court has ordered the Syrian government to stop its torture program, the court observed, over the brutal Civil War that began in 2011.

UN top court orders Syria to stop torture, Netherlands & Canada accuses Syria of year-long torture

Greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere hit new record highs in 2022, with no end in sight to the rising trend, the United Nations warned Wednesday.

The UN's World Meteorological Organization said levels of the three main greenhouse gases -- climate-warming carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide -- all broke records last year.

Such levels of heat-trapping gases will mean further temperature increases, more extreme weather and higher sea levels, the WMO said in its 19th annual Greenhouse Gas Bulletin.

"Despite decades of warnings from the scientific community, thousands of pages of reports and dozens of climate conferences, we are still heading in the wrong direction," said WMO chief Petteri Taalas.

The bulletin comes ahead of the November 30-December 12 COP28 UN climate summit in Dubai.

The 2015 Paris Agreement saw countries agree to cap global warming at "well below" two degrees Celsius above average levels measured between 1850 and 1900 -- and 1.5C if possible.

The global mean temperature in 2022 was 1.15C above the 1850-1900 average.

"The current level of greenhouse gas concentrations puts us on the pathway of an increase in temperatures well above the Paris Agreement targets by the end of this century," said Taalas.

"This will be accompanied by more extreme weather, including intense heat and rainfall, ice melt, sea level rise and ocean heat and acidification.

"The socioeconomic and environmental costs will soar. We must reduce the consumption of fossil fuels as a matter of urgency."

<h2>'No magic wand'</h2>

In 2022, carbon dioxide concentrations were at 418 parts per million, methane at 1,923 parts per billion and nitrous oxide at 336 parts per billion.

These values constitute, respectively, 150 percent, 264 percent and 124 percent of the pre-industrial (before 1750) levels.

Of the three major greenhouses gases, carbon dioxide (CO2) accounts for about 64 percent of the warming effect on the climate.

Global averaged concentrations of CO2 in 2022 were, for the first time, 50 percent above those of the pre-industrial era, "primarily because of emissions from the combustion of fossil fuels and cement production", said the WMO.

CO2 atmospheric concentrations "continued to grow in 2023".

"Given the long life of CO2, the temperature level already observed will persist for several decades even if emissions are rapidly reduced to net zero," the WMO warned, with Taalas adding: "There is no magic wand to remove the excess carbon dioxide from the atmosphere".

Atmospheric methane is the second largest contributor to climate change, accounting for around 16 percent of the warming effect.

Methane remains in the atmosphere for only about 10 years, but has a much more powerful warming impact than CO2.

The methane increase in 2022 was slightly lower than the 2021 increase but considerably higher than the average annual growth rate over the last decade.

For nitrous oxide -- accounting for around seven percent of the warming effect -- the increase last year "was higher than that observed any time before in our modern time record", the WMO said.

<h2>Tipping points&nbsp;</h2>

Although the scientific community has a broad understanding of climate change and its implications, there are still some uncertainties about the carbon cycle -- and the fluxes in the ocean, the land biosphere and the permafrost areas.

The bulletin called for greater information on certain topics.

These included feedback loops in the climate system -- for example, increased carbon emissions from soils or decreased carbon uptake by oceans due to climate change.

The WMO is also concerned about so-called tipping points, where a certain level of change leads to a self-accelerating and potentially irreversible cascade of changes.

The organisation said more information is also needed on non-CO2 greenhouse gases.

Greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere hit new record highs in 2022, with no end in sight to the rising trend, the United Nations warned Wednesday. The UN's World Meteorological Organization said levels of the three main greenhouse gases -- climate-warming carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide -- all broke records last year.

Greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere hit new record highs in 2022, with no end in sight to the rising trend, the United Nations warned Wednesday. The UN's World Meteorological Organization said levels of the three main greenhouse gases -- climate-warming carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide -- all broke records last year. Such levels of heat-trapping gases will mean further temperature increases, more extreme weather and higher sea levels, the WMO said in its 19th annual Greenhouse Gas Bulletin. "Despite decades of warnings from the scientific community, thousands of pages of reports and dozens of climate conferences, we are still heading in the wrong direction," said WMO chief Petteri Taalas. The bulletin comes ahead of the November 30-December 12 COP28 UN climate summit in Dubai. The 2015 Paris Agreement saw countries agree to cap global warming at "well below" two degrees Celsius above average levels measured between 1850 and 1900 -- and 1.5C if possible. The global mean temperature in 2022 was 1.15C above the 1850-1900 average. "The current level of greenhouse gas concentrations puts us on the pathway of an increase in temperatures well above the Paris Agreement targets by the end of this century," said Taalas. "This will be accompanied by more extreme weather, including intense heat and rainfall, ice melt, sea level rise and ocean heat and acidification. "The socioeconomic and environmental costs will soar. We must reduce the consumption of fossil fuels as a matter of urgency." 'No magic wand' In 2022, carbon dioxide concentrations were at 418 parts per million, methane at 1,923 parts per billion and nitrous oxide at 336 parts per billion. These values constitute, respectively, 150 percent, 264 percent and 124 percent of the pre-industrial (before 1750) levels. Of the three major greenhouses gases, carbon dioxide (CO2) accounts for about 64 percent of the warming effect on the climate. Global averaged concentrations of CO2 in 2022 were, for the first time, 50 percent above those of the pre-industrial era, "primarily because of emissions from the combustion of fossil fuels and cement production", said the WMO. CO2 atmospheric concentrations "continued to grow in 2023". "Given the long life of CO2, the temperature level already observed will persist for several decades even if emissions are rapidly reduced to net zero," the WMO warned, with Taalas adding: "There is no magic wand to remove the excess carbon dioxide from the atmosphere". Atmospheric methane is the second largest contributor to climate change, accounting for around 16 percent of the warming effect. Methane remains in the atmosphere for only about 10 years, but has a much more powerful warming impact than CO2. The methane increase in 2022 was slightly lower than the 2021 increase but considerably higher than the average annual growth rate over the last decade. For nitrous oxide -- accounting for around seven percent of the warming effect -- the increase last year "was higher than that observed any time before in our modern time record", the WMO said. Tipping points Although the scientific community has a broad understanding of climate change and its implications, there are still some uncertainties about the carbon cycle -- and the fluxes in the ocean, the land biosphere and the permafrost areas. The bulletin called for greater information on certain topics. These included feedback loops in the climate system -- for example, increased carbon emissions from soils or decreased carbon uptake by oceans due to climate change. The WMO is also concerned about so-called tipping points, where a certain level of change leads to a self-accelerating and potentially irreversible cascade of changes. The organisation said more information is also needed on non-CO2 greenhouse gases.

Greenhouse gas concentration hit record high in 2022: UN

The United Nations said late Saturday (Nov 11) that several people had been killed and wounded in strikes on one of its facilities in the war-torn Gaza Strip, where hundreds of Palestinians have taken refuge.

The United Nations said late Saturday (Nov 11) that several people had been killed and wounded in strikes on one of its facilities in the war-torn Gaza Strip, where hundreds of Palestinians have taken refuge. In a statement, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) said, "The shelling has reportedly resulted in a significant number of deaths and injuries." "The ongoing tragedy of death and injury to civilians ensnared in this conflict is unacceptable and must stop," the statement added. Over 100 UNRWA staff killed since start of war Saturday's announcement by the UN comes a day after its Palestinian agency, the UNRWA, said that over 100 of its employees including teachers, doctors, and support staff died in Gaza since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas war on Oct 7. Click here to follow updates on the Israel-Hamas war In a post on X, UNRWA Chief Philippe Lazzarini said, "Devastated. Over 100 UNRWA colleagues confirmed killed in one month. Parents, teachers, nurses, doctors, support staff." Lazzarini said that ending this conflict needed an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. WHO says situation of healthcare facilities in Gaza desperate The World Health Organization (WHO) said on Saturday that nearly half of the healthcare facilities in Gaza were not functioning, while the rest were operating way below their capacities. "Doctors and nurses are completely exhausted and overwhelmed and a number of hospitals are under attack," WHO's official based in Cairo Rick Brennan told the news agency Reuters. "We are seeing the spread of diseases now, particularly in the overcrowded collective centres, increased rates of chest infections, of diarrhoea, of terrible skin infections such as scabies, which is a disastrous condition, very uncomfortable. And now we are seeing outbreaks of cases of childhood diseases such as measles and mumps," he added. Also read: Palestinian health minister says 39 babies at risk of death in Gaza's Al-Shifa hospital The conflict has now intensified around hospitals in Gaza where people have been seeking refuge. On Sunday, intense fighting raged around the Palestinian enclave's biggest hospital Al Shifa where doctors said thousands of Palestinians were trapped in dire conditions. According to doctors, there is no water, power, food or internet access for about 600 post-operative patients, 37-40 babies and 17 people in intensive care. A Hamas health official said later in the day that an Israeli air strike destroyed the cardiac ward of Al Shifa. Speaking to the news agency AFP, Youssef Abu Rish, deputy health minister in Gaza said, "The occupier (Israel) completely destroyed the cardiac department of Al-Shifa hospital... The two-storey building has been completely destroyed in an air strike." (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: UN says several killed in strikes on its facility in Gaza

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk on Friday (Nov 10) called for an investigation into what he called Israel's use of "high-impact explosive weapons" in the Gaza Strip.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk on Friday (Nov 10) called for an investigation into what he called Israel's use of "high-impact explosive weapons" in the Gaza Strip. Addressing a press conference in Jordan's capital city of Amman, Turk said these weapons were causing indiscriminate destruction in Gaza. Turk did not specify what weapons he was referring to. "The extensive Israeli bombardment of Gaza, including the use of high-impact explosive weapons in densely populated areas ... is clearly having a devastating humanitarian and human rights impact," he told reporters. 'Attacks in Gaza must be probed' "The attacks must be investigated ... We have very serious concerns that these amount to disproportionate attacks in breach of international humanitarian law," the top UN official added. Reacting to his remarks, Israel's permanent mission to the UN in Geneva said, "Israel abides by international humanitarian law at all times. Terrorists don’t." The mission added that Hamas embedded itself in densely populated areas and was preventing civilians from leaving. Click here to follow all updates on the Israel-Hamas war The conflict between Israel and Hamas has been going on for more than a month now, and thousands of people have been killed on both sides of the conflict. Turk also told reporters that any use by Palestinian armed groups of civilians and civilian objects to shield themselves from attack was in contravention of the laws of war. "But such conduct by Palestinian armed groups does not absolve Israel of its obligation to ensure that civilians are spared," he added. Turk also said that Israel must take immediate measures to protect Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, where violence is escalating between Palestinians and Israeli soldiers and settlers. Gaza death toll climbs to over 11,000 On Friday, the health ministry in Gaza said that 11,078 people have been killed in the Palestinian enclave since October 7. In a statement, the ministry said that the death toll includes 4,506 children and nearly 28,000 people have been injured in the conflict. Also read: Israel asks Western media to clarify the presence of photographers during Hamas attack In other developments on the conflict, the Palestinian Red Crescent Society said that Israeli snipers were shooting at Gaza's Al-Quds hospital, reporting at least one death and 20 wounded. "Fierce clashes now and occupation (Israeli) snipers shooting at Al-Quds hospital, casualties among the displaced" Palestinians sheltering at the facility, the society said in a statement. 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.

Israel-Hamas war: UN calls for probe into Israel's use of 'high impact weapons' in Gaza

The United Nations on Monday (Nov 6) sounded the alarm on the intensification of disinformation and hate speech online and announced a plan to curb its spread.

This came after a global survey showed that more than 85% of people were concerned about online disinformation's impact and 87% believed that it had already scarred the political scenario in their country.

Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO said that hate speech online and false information constitute "a major threat to stability and social cohesion". &nbsp;

"Digital technology has enabled immense progress on freedom of speech. But social media platforms have also accelerated and amplified the spread of false information and hate speech, posing major risks to societal cohesion, peace and stability," Azoulay told reporters on Monday.&nbsp;

"To protect access to information, we must regulate these platforms without delay, while at the same time protecting freedom of expression and human rights," she added.

A survey conducted by pollster Ipsos of 8,000 people residing in countries including Austria, Croatia, the US, Algeria, Mexico, Ghana and India, uncovered that around 56 per cent of internet users consumed news via social media platforms, whereas only 44 per cent of the people got it from TV channels and 29 per cent from news websites.

The organisation, while expressing concern over the situation, said that there was a dire need for effective regulation to control the dissemination of disinformation as the survey showed how social media was the main source of news for the majority of the people in almost all the countries.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/this-ex-israeli-soldier-joined-a-pro-palestinian-rally-but-why-heres-what-he-said-656197">This ex-Israeli soldier joined a pro-Palestinian rally but why? Here's what he said</a>

However, across these 16 countries where the survey was conducted and which are also due to hold national polls next year, 68 per cent of the respondents agreed that social media was not a reliable source of information and that these platforms were mainly home to false information.

“People are very concerned about disinformation, across every country and social category – age, education, rural or urban,” said Mathieu Gallard of Ipsos. “They are especially worried during elections – and they want all actors to fight it.”

<h2>Action plan</h2>

UNESCO said that its seven key principles must be respected so that "the impact on human rights becomes the compass for all decision-making, at every stage and by every stakeholder."

"Our work has been guided by one central requirement: the protection at all times of freedom of expression and all other human rights. Restricting or limiting speech would be a terrible solution. Having media outlets and information tools that are independent, qualitative and free, is the best long-term response to disinformation," the Director-General underscored.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The United Nations on Monday (Nov 6) sounded the alarm on the intensification of disinformation and hate speech online and announced a plan to curb its spread. This came after a global survey showed that more than 85% of people were concerned about online disinformation's impact and 87% believed that it had already scarred the political scenario in their country.

The United Nations on Monday (Nov 6) sounded the alarm on the intensification of disinformation and hate speech online and announced a plan to curb its spread. This came after a global survey showed that more than 85% of people were concerned about online disinformation's impact and 87% believed that it had already scarred the political scenario in their country. Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO said that hate speech online and false information constitute "a major threat to stability and social cohesion". "Digital technology has enabled immense progress on freedom of speech. But social media platforms have also accelerated and amplified the spread of false information and hate speech, posing major risks to societal cohesion, peace and stability," Azoulay told reporters on Monday. "To protect access to information, we must regulate these platforms without delay, while at the same time protecting freedom of expression and human rights," she added. A survey conducted by pollster Ipsos of 8,000 people residing in countries including Austria, Croatia, the US, Algeria, Mexico, Ghana and India, uncovered that around 56 per cent of internet users consumed news via social media platforms, whereas only 44 per cent of the people got it from TV channels and 29 per cent from news websites. The organisation, while expressing concern over the situation, said that there was a dire need for effective regulation to control the dissemination of disinformation as the survey showed how social media was the main source of news for the majority of the people in almost all the countries. Also read: This ex-Israeli soldier joined a pro-Palestinian rally but why? Here's what he said However, across these 16 countries where the survey was conducted and which are also due to hold national polls next year, 68 per cent of the respondents agreed that social media was not a reliable source of information and that these platforms were mainly home to false information. “People are very concerned about disinformation, across every country and social category – age, education, rural or urban,” said Mathieu Gallard of Ipsos. “They are especially worried during elections – and they want all actors to fight it.” Action plan UNESCO said that its seven key principles must be respected so that "the impact on human rights becomes the compass for all decision-making, at every stage and by every stakeholder." "Our work has been guided by one central requirement: the protection at all times of freedom of expression and all other human rights. Restricting or limiting speech would be a terrible solution. Having media outlets and information tools that are independent, qualitative and free, is the best long-term response to disinformation," the Director-General underscored. (With inputs from agencies)

UN announces action plans to tackle spread of disinformation on social media platforms

The United Nations said on Monday (Nov 6) that 88 staff members from its Palestinian refugee agency, the UNRWA, have been killed since the start of the Israel-Hamas war on October 7.

The United Nations said on Monday (Nov 6) that 88 staff members from its Palestinian refugee agency, the UNRWA, have been killed since the start of the Israel-Hamas war on October 7. In a statement, the UN said that this figure represented "the highest number of United Nations fatalities ever recorded in a single conflict." The UN also expressed outrage at the civilian deaths in the Gaza Strip and called for an immediate ceasefire. Click here to follow LIVE updates on the Israel-Hamas war It further demanded that Hamas militants release the hostages who were abducted from Israel. 'Enough is enough' On Sunday, another UN statement said that in Gaza, an entire population was besieged and under attack denied access to the essentials for survival, and bombed in their homes, shelters, hospitals and places of worship. The UN also said that more food, water, medicine and fuel must be allowed into the Palestinian enclave to help people as the Israeli attacks intensified. Also read: Iran says US encouraging Israel to kill Palestinians "We need an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. It’s been 30 days. Enough is enough. This must stop now," the statement said. Israel has denied calls for a ceasefire despite international pressure by saying that a truce would help Hamas to regroup and resupply. "There will be no ceasefire without the return of the hostages. This should be completely removed from the lexicon," Prime Minister Netanyahu told crews at the Ramon Air Force base in southern Israel. Death toll in Gaza crosses 10,000 The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza said that the death toll due to the conflict has crossed 10,000. On the Israeli side, more than 1,400 people have died. Last Saturday, a US official said that at least 350,000 civilians remained in the worst-hit regions of the Palestinian enclave. Israel earlier distributed leaflets and sent text messages to Palestinians in northern Gaza to head south. The health ministry in Gaza warned that the conflict exacerbated tensions in the West Bank, where more than 150 Palestinians have been killed in clashes with Israeli forces and settlers since the start of the war. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: UN says its 88 staffers killed in conflict, the highest ever in any war

A deadly airstrike by Israel on Gaza City hit a school, which was being run by the United Nations and was serving as a shelter, on Saturday (Nov 4). 
 
The attack took place at a time when US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was set to hear demands of the Arabs for a ceasefire in a meeting to be held in Jordan. 
 
As reported by Reuters, Al-Fakhoura school which is located in Jabalia refugee camp was hit in an Israeli strike and led to many evacuees, who had earlier taken shelter, getting killed or wounded. 
 
At least 15 people were killed and dozens of other were injured, said Mohammad Abu Selmeyah, the head of al-Shifa Hospital, after the incident, reported Reuters.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-pm-modi-uk-counterpart-discusses-israel-hamas-war-progress-on-fta-654947">Indian PM Modi, UK counterpart Rishi Sunak discuss Israel-Hamas war, progress on FTA</a>

"People were preparing breakfast, when suddenly bombing started. I found my two girls, one of them was martyred and her head was hit, the second was wounded in her leg... the other girl as well was wounded with shrapnel," one man was heard saying in video footage, Reuters stated. 
 
In Gaza, the Ministry of Health stated that two women were killed at the Nasser Children Hospital's door by another Israeli missile strike.

<h2>Israel strikes Palestinian ambulance</h2>

Hours before, the health officials in Gaza had stated that an ambulance was hit in an airstrike which was part of the convoy carrying injured Palestinians at al-Shifa hospital. 
 
Israel's military had stated that the ambulance was identified and hit because it was "being used by an Hamas terrorist cell" and that many Hamas fighters were killed in the attack. 
 
Israel was challenged by the Palestinian health ministry to provide proof of militants being present in the ambulance. Israel stated that it is mulling over the release of additional information.

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Exclusive interview with Lebanese information minister

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Gaza City was encircled by the ground forces of Israel on Thursday (Oct 2) after their bombing campaign was stepped up, which was aimed at wiping out Hamas, after a war broke out between Tel Aviv and the militant group in the wake of the October 7 assault. 
 
Last month, Israel asked all civilians to leave Gaza Strip's northern part, which also included Gaza City, and move towards the south of the enclave, which is also being bombed by Israel. 
 
Hamas has been accused by Israel of hiding militants among civilians across the enclave and concealing tunnel entrances and command centres in al-Shifa. 
 
The living conditions in Gaza continue to deteriorate further in the wake of war. Food remains scarce and the people have started drinking salty water, as medical services collapse.

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)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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A deadly airstrike by Israel on Gaza City hit a school, which was being run by the United Nations and was serving as a shelter, on Saturday (Nov 4). The attack took place at a time when US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was set to hear demands of the Arabs for a ceasefire in a meeting to be held in Jordan.

A deadly airstrike by Israel on Gaza City hit a school, which was being run by the United Nations and was serving as a shelter, on Saturday (Nov 4). The attack took place at a time when US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was set to hear demands of the Arabs for a ceasefire in a meeting to be held in Jordan. As reported by Reuters, Al-Fakhoura school which is located in Jabalia refugee camp was hit in an Israeli strike and led to many evacuees, who had earlier taken shelter, getting killed or wounded. At least 15 people were killed and dozens of other were injured, said Mohammad Abu Selmeyah, the head of al-Shifa Hospital, after the incident, reported Reuters. ALSO READ | Indian PM Modi, UK counterpart Rishi Sunak discuss Israel-Hamas war, progress on FTA "People were preparing breakfast, when suddenly bombing started. I found my two girls, one of them was martyred and her head was hit, the second was wounded in her leg... the other girl as well was wounded with shrapnel," one man was heard saying in video footage, Reuters stated. In Gaza, the Ministry of Health stated that two women were killed at the Nasser Children Hospital's door by another Israeli missile strike. Israel strikes Palestinian ambulance Hours before, the health officials in Gaza had stated that an ambulance was hit in an airstrike which was part of the convoy carrying injured Palestinians at al-Shifa hospital. Israel's military had stated that the ambulance was identified and hit because it was "being used by an Hamas terrorist cell" and that many Hamas fighters were killed in the attack. Israel was challenged by the Palestinian health ministry to provide proof of militants being present in the ambulance. Israel stated that it is mulling over the release of additional information. WATCH | Israel-Hamas war: Exclusive interview with Lebanese information minister Gaza City was encircled by the ground forces of Israel on Thursday (Oct 2) after their bombing campaign was stepped up, which was aimed at wiping out Hamas, after a war broke out between Tel Aviv and the militant group in the wake of the October 7 assault. Last month, Israel asked all civilians to leave Gaza Strip's northern part, which also included Gaza City, and move towards the south of the enclave, which is also being bombed by Israel. Hamas has been accused by Israel of hiding militants among civilians across the enclave and concealing tunnel entrances and command centres in al-Shifa. The living conditions in Gaza continue to deteriorate further in the wake of war. Food remains scarce and the people have started drinking salty water, as medical services collapse. 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) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israeli airstrikes hit UN school serving as a shelter in Gaza, kills 15

United Nations-mandated human rights experts said on Thursday (November 2) that "time is running out to prevent genocide and humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza". The experts include the special rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territories.

"We remain convinced that the Palestinian people are at grave risk of genocide," the experts said in a joint statement.

"The time for action is now. Israel's allies also bear responsibility and must act now to prevent its disastrous course of action."

UN special rapporteurs are independent, unpaid figures who have mandate from the Human Rights Council. Although they don't speak for the United Nations, they report their findings to the agency.

"The situation in Gaza has reached a catastrophic tipping point," the experts said, warning of the "dire need" for food, water, medicine, fuel and essential supplies and the risk of looming health hazards.

The statement was signed by Francesca Albanese, special rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967.

Among other signatories were the special rapporteurs on safe drinking water,&nbsp;mental health,&nbsp;food, physical health, internally displaced persons,&nbsp;freedom of expression,&nbsp;and contemporary racism.

Israel has been relentlessly bombing Gaza since Hamas fighters crossed the border to stage attacks inside Israel on October 7 killing 1,400 people and abducting more than 200 people

Hamas-run Gaza health ministry has said that more than 9000 people have been killed since the outbreak of the war.

The experts from the UN called for the immediate release of all civilians held captive.

"All parties must comply with their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law," they said.

"We demand a humanitarian ceasefire to ensure that aid reaches those who need it the most. A ceasefire also means channels of communication can be opened to ensure the release of hostages," the experts said.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Nations-mandated human rights experts said on Thursday (November 2) that "time is running out to prevent genocide and humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza". The experts include the special rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territories.

United Nations-mandated human rights experts said on Thursday (November 2) that "time is running out to prevent genocide and humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza". The experts include the special rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territories. "We remain convinced that the Palestinian people are at grave risk of genocide," the experts said in a joint statement. "The time for action is now. Israel's allies also bear responsibility and must act now to prevent its disastrous course of action." UN special rapporteurs are independent, unpaid figures who have mandate from the Human Rights Council. Although they don't speak for the United Nations, they report their findings to the agency. "The situation in Gaza has reached a catastrophic tipping point," the experts said, warning of the "dire need" for food, water, medicine, fuel and essential supplies and the risk of looming health hazards. The statement was signed by Francesca Albanese, special rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967. Among other signatories were the special rapporteurs on safe drinking water, mental health, food, physical health, internally displaced persons, freedom of expression, and contemporary racism. Israel has been relentlessly bombing Gaza since Hamas fighters crossed the border to stage attacks inside Israel on October 7 killing 1,400 people and abducting more than 200 people Hamas-run Gaza health ministry has said that more than 9000 people have been killed since the outbreak of the war. The experts from the UN called for the immediate release of all civilians held captive. "All parties must comply with their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law," they said. "We demand a humanitarian ceasefire to ensure that aid reaches those who need it the most. A ceasefire also means channels of communication can be opened to ensure the release of hostages," the experts said. (With inputs from agencies)

Time running out to prevent Gaza 'genocide': UN-mandated experts

Amid the Israel-Hamas war, the United Nations on Friday (Nov 3) said $1.2 billion would be the minimum amount required to meet the needs of nearly 2.7 million people in the Gaza Strip and 500,000 people in the West Bank until the end of this year.

"The cost of meeting the needs of 2.7 million people -- that is the entire population of Gaza and 500,000 people in the occupied West Bank -- is estimated to be $1.2 billion," the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said in a statement.

In an appeal on Oct 12, OCHA had sought aid of $294 million to help nearly 1.3 million people affected by the war.

"The situation has grown increasingly desperate since then," it said.

The supply of aid to Gaza has been hindered since Israel launched an offensive against &nbsp;Hamas in the wake of unprecedented attacks by the Palestinian militant group on October 7.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-passes-14-billion-aid-package-for-israel-without-ukraine-to-be-rejected-by-senate-654562">US House passes $14 billion aid package for Israel, but not Ukraine</a>

"There's been a high number of casualties reported, as well as the reported use of explosive weapons with wide area effects in some of the most densely populated areas in Gaza," said Liz Throssell, spokesperson for the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).

"We have serious concerns that the principles of distinction and proportionality are not being respected by both sides."&nbsp;

OCHA said that its revised appeal for funding, which will be published on Monday, would outline the need for food, water, health care, shelter, hygiene and other urgent priorities.

"The new appeal will outline the need for food, water, health care, shelter, hygiene and other urgent priorities following the massive bombardments in the Gaza Strip," OCHA said.

"We urge donors to promptly make resources available for the response," Laerke said.

"Our ability to ease the suffering of the Palestinian population will depend on adequate funding, safe and sustained access to all people in need, wherever they are, sufficient flow of humanitarian supplies, and - importantly - fuel." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid the Israel-Hamas war, the United Nations on Friday (Nov 3) said $1.2 billion would be the minimum amount required to meet the needs of nearly 2.7 million people in the Gaza Strip and 500,000 people in the West Bank until the end of this year.

Amid the Israel-Hamas war, the United Nations on Friday (Nov 3) said $1.2 billion would be the minimum amount required to meet the needs of nearly 2.7 million people in the Gaza Strip and 500,000 people in the West Bank until the end of this year. "The cost of meeting the needs of 2.7 million people -- that is the entire population of Gaza and 500,000 people in the occupied West Bank -- is estimated to be $1.2 billion," the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said in a statement. In an appeal on Oct 12, OCHA had sought aid of $294 million to help nearly 1.3 million people affected by the war. "The situation has grown increasingly desperate since then," it said. The supply of aid to Gaza has been hindered since Israel launched an offensive against Hamas in the wake of unprecedented attacks by the Palestinian militant group on October 7. Also read: US House passes $14 billion aid package for Israel, but not Ukraine "There's been a high number of casualties reported, as well as the reported use of explosive weapons with wide area effects in some of the most densely populated areas in Gaza," said Liz Throssell, spokesperson for the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). "We have serious concerns that the principles of distinction and proportionality are not being respected by both sides." OCHA said that its revised appeal for funding, which will be published on Monday, would outline the need for food, water, health care, shelter, hygiene and other urgent priorities. "The new appeal will outline the need for food, water, health care, shelter, hygiene and other urgent priorities following the massive bombardments in the Gaza Strip," OCHA said. "We urge donors to promptly make resources available for the response," Laerke said. "Our ability to ease the suffering of the Palestinian population will depend on adequate funding, safe and sustained access to all people in need, wherever they are, sufficient flow of humanitarian supplies, and - importantly - fuel." (With inputs from agencies)

UN seeks $1.2 billion aid to support people in Gaza, West Bank

Bob Dylan won the Nobel Prize for literature in 2016, but perhaps he should have won the peace prize. It is a toss-up really. As innocent children die by the hundreds in Gaza, whose night skies are lit up by Israeli bombs in response to the Palestinian Hamas rockets that thundered to spill blood over an Israeli music festival about a month ago, the lyrics of his most famous song ring true:

"Yes, and how many times must a man look up 
Before he can see the sky? 
And how many ears must one man have 
Before he can hear people cry? 
Yes, and how many deaths will it take 'til he knows 
That too many people have died? 
The answer, my friend, is blowin' in the wind 
The answer is blowin' in the wind"

As "Blowin in the Wind' buzzes in our ears, let us look at the entity that actually won the Nobel Prize for peace in 1988: The United Nations Peacekeeping Forces.

Headlines this week do not look pretty for a subordinate agency of the UN that has a long official web page singing its praises since the founding of the UNO at the end of the Second World War.

'Israeli strikes kill or injure 400+ children in Gaza every day: UN'.

'Top UN official resigns citing genocide in the Gaza Strip'.

Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Pope Francis advocates on two-state solution; calls for Jerusalem's special status

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As any person who has been to a New Delhi diplomatic party might know, the UN seems to have been reduced to a bunch of bureaucratic diplomats earning tax-free US-dollar salaries who issue statements that do not go anywhere. The UN Security Council is now in a perpetual logjam state as the US, Russia and China display their peculiarly tangential and frequently conflicting positions best illustrated by symbolic planets in the Hindu astrological chart. The vote in the General Assembly always mattered little compared to the veto in the Security Council, but what is happening now in West Asia should make us look up the organisation's peacekeeping role, which I did. (Meanwhile, the UN continues to call West Asia the Middle East in a Freudian description that matches the American worldview).

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sponge-bombs-killer-drones-and-attack-dogs-the-many-weapons-israel-will-use-to-tackle-hamas-tunnels-654215">'Sponge bombs,' killer drones, and attack dogs: The many weapons Israel will use to tackle Hamas tunnels</a>

To cut the long story short, the UN Peacekeeping actually began in 1948 precisely where all the bloody action is now to police a ceasefire between Arabs and Israelis. Since then it has been all over the planet mostly to police ceasefires as colonial exploitation gave way to ethnic strifes and civil wars bearing the indelible marks of a has-been imperialism turning into a never-say-die shadow colonialism.

The UN officially says its peacekeeper role changed after the end of the Cold War circa 1991 (Has it, really?). It has been to places like the former Yugoslavia, Angola, and Somalia and lists among the Peacekeeping Forces' tasks an objective to "stabilise the security situation". And it also says with an official straight face: "The nature of conflicts also changed over the years. UN Peacekeeping, originally developed as a means of dealing with inter-State conflict, was increasingly being applied to intra-state conflicts and civil wars."

I want to ask how one would describe the current conflict in Palestine. It is nothing but a prolonged civil war between two national communities that claim stakes to the same ancient homeland - divided by religion, language and heritage but not by territory. A two-state solution widely seen as the right way out implies that geographically intertwined nation-states are at war. The Israel-Hamas conflict has both inter-State and intra-state characteristics. Either way, the UN has to play some sort of a peacekeeping role that goes beyond the policing of a ceasefire that is simply not happening.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-un-raise-concern-over-settler-violence-in-west-bank-israels-lawmaker-may-make-situation-worse-654154">US, UN raise concern over settler violence in West Bank; Israel’s lawmaker may make situation worse</a>

Along with hundreds of kids and civilians, we also see irony dying a thousand deaths at Gaza in a world in which a veto-empowered Russia can bomb Ukraine and kill civilians in an ostensible "de-Nazification" act that enlists support from a private army named after a Nazi favourite composer, Wagner!&nbsp;

That digression to Ukraine is just a drone's eye view of the planet to show that we are now seeing a world in which geopolitics has become a theatre of the absurd. It would be funny were it not for the tragic destruction and deaths that we are witnessing day after day in Gaza. If there was ever a need to airdrop powerful military support to keep the peace, it is now and the place is exactly where it all began in 1948.

But who will bell the cat? US President Joe Biden and Russian strongman Vladimir Putin are now two of a kind. China remains mysteriously torn between being a stealthy expansionist and a wannabe deal-maker. France is fighting its own internal monsters like a latter-day Don Quixote. The answer is indeed blowing in the wind.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Bob Dylan won the Nobel Prize for literature in 2016, but perhaps he should have won the peace prize. It is a toss-up really. As innocent children die by the hundreds in Gaza, whose night skies are lit up by Israeli bombs in response to the Palestinian Hamas rockets that thundered to spill blood over an Israeli music festival about a month ago, the lyrics of his most famous song ring true: "Yes, and how many times must a man look up Before he can see the sky?

Bob Dylan won the Nobel Prize for literature in 2016, but perhaps he should have won the peace prize. It is a toss-up really. As innocent children die by the hundreds in Gaza, whose night skies are lit up by Israeli bombs in response to the Palestinian Hamas rockets that thundered to spill blood over an Israeli music festival about a month ago, the lyrics of his most famous song ring true: "Yes, and how many times must a man look up Before he can see the sky? And how many ears must one man have Before he can hear people cry? Yes, and how many deaths will it take 'til he knows That too many people have died? The answer, my friend, is blowin' in the wind The answer is blowin' in the wind" As "Blowin in the Wind' buzzes in our ears, let us look at the entity that actually won the Nobel Prize for peace in 1988: The United Nations Peacekeeping Forces. Headlines this week do not look pretty for a subordinate agency of the UN that has a long official web page singing its praises since the founding of the UNO at the end of the Second World War. 'Israeli strikes kill or injure 400+ children in Gaza every day: UN'. 'Top UN official resigns citing genocide in the Gaza Strip'. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Pope Francis advocates on two-state solution; calls for Jerusalem's special status × As any person who has been to a New Delhi diplomatic party might know, the UN seems to have been reduced to a bunch of bureaucratic diplomats earning tax-free US-dollar salaries who issue statements that do not go anywhere. The UN Security Council is now in a perpetual logjam state as the US, Russia and China display their peculiarly tangential and frequently conflicting positions best illustrated by symbolic planets in the Hindu astrological chart. The vote in the General Assembly always mattered little compared to the veto in the Security Council, but what is happening now in West Asia should make us look up the organisation's peacekeeping role, which I did. (Meanwhile, the UN continues to call West Asia the Middle East in a Freudian description that matches the American worldview). Also Read | 'Sponge bombs,' killer drones, and attack dogs: The many weapons Israel will use to tackle Hamas tunnels To cut the long story short, the UN Peacekeeping actually began in 1948 precisely where all the bloody action is now to police a ceasefire between Arabs and Israelis. Since then it has been all over the planet mostly to police ceasefires as colonial exploitation gave way to ethnic strifes and civil wars bearing the indelible marks of a has-been imperialism turning into a never-say-die shadow colonialism. The UN officially says its peacekeeper role changed after the end of the Cold War circa 1991 (Has it, really?). It has been to places like the former Yugoslavia, Angola, and Somalia and lists among the Peacekeeping Forces' tasks an objective to "stabilise the security situation". And it also says with an official straight face: "The nature of conflicts also changed over the years. UN Peacekeeping, originally developed as a means of dealing with inter-State conflict, was increasingly being applied to intra-state conflicts and civil wars." I want to ask how one would describe the current conflict in Palestine. It is nothing but a prolonged civil war between two national communities that claim stakes to the same ancient homeland - divided by religion, language and heritage but not by territory. A two-state solution widely seen as the right way out implies that geographically intertwined nation-states are at war. The Israel-Hamas conflict has both inter-State and intra-state characteristics. Either way, the UN has to play some sort of a peacekeeping role that goes beyond the policing of a ceasefire that is simply not happening. Also Read | US, UN raise concern over settler violence in West Bank; Israel’s lawmaker may make situation worse Along with hundreds of kids and civilians, we also see irony dying a thousand deaths at Gaza in a world in which a veto-empowered Russia can bomb Ukraine and kill civilians in an ostensible "de-Nazification" act that enlists support from a private army named after a Nazi favourite composer, Wagner! That digression to Ukraine is just a drone's eye view of the planet to show that we are now seeing a world in which geopolitics has become a theatre of the absurd. It would be funny were it not for the tragic destruction and deaths that we are witnessing day after day in Gaza. If there was ever a need to airdrop powerful military support to keep the peace, it is now and the place is exactly where it all began in 1948. But who will bell the cat? US President Joe Biden and Russian strongman Vladimir Putin are now two of a kind. China remains mysteriously torn between being a stealthy expansionist and a wannabe deal-maker. France is fighting its own internal monsters like a latter-day Don Quixote. The answer is indeed blowing in the wind. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Missing in action: As Gaza burns, a failing UN needs Dylan's wake-up call

Craig Mokhiber, director of the New York office of the UN High Commissioner for human rights, has stepped down from his position after protesting what he has called a "text book case of genocide" in the Gaza Strip. As reported by multiple media outlets, Mokhiber has said this in his resignation letter in addition to other serious assertions.

Saying that this will be his last communication to UN High Commissioner in Geneva Volker Turk, Mokhiber has said that the United Nations was "failing" to do its duty as Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip continues.

He alleged that the US, the UK and large number of countries in Europe were "wholly complicit in the horrific assault". Mokhiber wrote to the UN high commissioner on October 28.

“Once again we are seeing a genocide unfolding before our eyes and the organization we serve appears powerless to stop it,” he said as reported by The Guardian.

In his letter, Mokhiber also said the there have been number of occasions in past when the United Nations has failed to stop a genocide mentioning the Rwandan genocide, Muslims in Bosnia, Yazidis in Iraqi Kurdistan and Rohingya in Myanmar.

Watch | Humanitarian crisis worsen, how much water and power does Gaza have?

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“The current wholesale slaughter of the Palestinian people, rooted in an ethno-nationalist colonial settler ideology, in continuation of decades of their systematic persecution and purging, based entirely upon their status as Arabs … leaves no room for doubt.”

Mokhiber stated that not only the West was "refusing to meet their treaty obligation" under Geneva Conventions but were also arming Israel in addition to providing political and diplomatic cover.

“We must support the establishment of a single, democratic secular state in all of historic Palestine, with equal rights for Christians, Muslims, and Jews,” he wrote, adding: “and, therefore, the dismantling of the deeply racist, settler-colonial project and an end to apartheid across the land.”

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/15-anti-israel-protesters-jailed-over-anti-israel-riot-at-russian-airport-653986">15 anti-Israel protesters jailed over riots at Russian airport</a>

Mokhiber has been part of the UN since 1992. He served in a number of prominent roles. He has served as a senior human rights adviser in Palestine, Afghanistan and Sudan..

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-chief-ismail-haniyeh-says-massacre-by-israel-is-to-hide-its-setback-654021">Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh says 'massacre' by Israel is to hide its setback</a>

The resignation letter has expectedly stirred conversation on social media. Several journalists and academics have begun posting the resignation letter on social media platforms like X.&nbsp;

The Guardian has quoted a UN spokesperson who said that these were Mokhiber's "personal views".

“I can confirm that he is retiring today. He informed the UN in March 2023 of his upcoming retirement, which takes effect tomorrow. The views in his letter made public today are his personal views,” said the spokesperson.

Craig Mokhiber, director of the New York office of the UN High Commissioner for human rights, has stepped down from his position after protesting what he has called a "text book case of genocide" in the Gaza Strip.

Craig Mokhiber, director of the New York office of the UN High Commissioner for human rights, has stepped down from his position after protesting what he has called a "text book case of genocide" in the Gaza Strip. As reported by multiple media outlets, Mokhiber has said this in his resignation letter in addition to other serious assertions. Saying that this will be his last communication to UN High Commissioner in Geneva Volker Turk, Mokhiber has said that the United Nations was "failing" to do its duty as Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip continues. He alleged that the US, the UK and large number of countries in Europe were "wholly complicit in the horrific assault". Mokhiber wrote to the UN high commissioner on October 28. “Once again we are seeing a genocide unfolding before our eyes and the organization we serve appears powerless to stop it,” he said as reported by The Guardian. In his letter, Mokhiber also said the there have been number of occasions in past when the United Nations has failed to stop a genocide mentioning the Rwandan genocide, Muslims in Bosnia, Yazidis in Iraqi Kurdistan and Rohingya in Myanmar. Watch | Humanitarian crisis worsen, how much water and power does Gaza have? × “The current wholesale slaughter of the Palestinian people, rooted in an ethno-nationalist colonial settler ideology, in continuation of decades of their systematic persecution and purging, based entirely upon their status as Arabs … leaves no room for doubt.” Mokhiber stated that not only the West was "refusing to meet their treaty obligation" under Geneva Conventions but were also arming Israel in addition to providing political and diplomatic cover. “We must support the establishment of a single, democratic secular state in all of historic Palestine, with equal rights for Christians, Muslims, and Jews,” he wrote, adding: “and, therefore, the dismantling of the deeply racist, settler-colonial project and an end to apartheid across the land.” Also Read | 15 anti-Israel protesters jailed over riots at Russian airport Mokhiber has been part of the UN since 1992. He served in a number of prominent roles. He has served as a senior human rights adviser in Palestine, Afghanistan and Sudan.. Also Read | Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh says 'massacre' by Israel is to hide its setback The resignation letter has expectedly stirred conversation on social media. Several journalists and academics have begun posting the resignation letter on social media platforms like X. The Guardian has quoted a UN spokesperson who said that these were Mokhiber's "personal views". “I can confirm that he is retiring today. He informed the UN in March 2023 of his upcoming retirement, which takes effect tomorrow. The views in his letter made public today are his personal views,” said the spokesperson.

Top UN official resigns citing 'genocide' in Gaza Strip

United Nations Security Council is due to hold an emergency meeting on Monday (October 30) on the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. The meeting has been requested by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as Arab representative of the UNSC seeks a binding resolution for a humanitarian pause in the ongoing Gaza conflict.

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has already overwhelmingly voted for a humanitarian pause but&nbsp;the UNGA does not have power to pass binding resolutions. The UNSC has that authority.

When it sought the emergency meeting, the UAE stressed that “The importance of the protection of civilians, according to international humanitarian law, international treaties for the protection of civilians and human rights, and the need to ensure that they are not targeted during conflict”.

It is unlikely that a vote will be held immediately before discussion but looking at the volatile situation in the Middle East, there may be a demand to find a quick solution.

Video: Israel-Hamas war | Relentless airstrikes force residents out of Northern Gaza city

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The UNGA resolution, passed on Friday, did not condemn Hamas and this has enraged Israel which has made an appeal to stop funding the UN.

“Every honest country should defund the UN. Until the bias stops and the antisemitism stops, we can no longer continue business as usual,” Israeli ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan told Fox News. He called the UNGA resolution "unfathomable" and alleged that the UN “completely lost its legitimacy and relevance”.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-1400-displaced-hundreds-of-patients-under-threat-as-israel-bombs-al-quds-hospital-vicinity-653017">Israel-Hamas war: 1,400 displaced, hundreds of patients under threat as Israel bombs Al-Quds hospital vicinity</a>

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has put his weight behind a humanitarian pause in the conflict.

“The world is witnessing a humanitarian catastrophe taking place before our eyes. More than 2 million people, with nowhere safe to go, are being denied the essentials for life – food, water, shelter and medical care – while being subjected to relentless bombardment. “I urge all those with responsibility to step back from the brink.”

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/earnings-in-the-fog-of-war-global-companies-dance-to-israel-hamas-tune-652988">Earnings in the fog of war: Global companies dance to Israel-Hamas tune</a>

The Palestinian Red Crescent has said that though Israel has not allowed any fuel to reach the Gaza Strip, 94 humanitarian aid trucks have crossed into the enclave through the Rafah crossing. The aid is nowhere close to be adequate for people across Gaza.

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United Nations Security Council is due to hold an emergency meeting on Monday (October 30) on the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. The meeting has been requested by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as Arab representative of the UNSC seeks a binding resolution for a humanitarian pause in the ongoing Gaza conflict.

United Nations Security Council is due to hold an emergency meeting on Monday (October 30) on the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. The meeting has been requested by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as Arab representative of the UNSC seeks a binding resolution for a humanitarian pause in the ongoing Gaza conflict. The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has already overwhelmingly voted for a humanitarian pause but the UNGA does not have power to pass binding resolutions. The UNSC has that authority. When it sought the emergency meeting, the UAE stressed that “The importance of the protection of civilians, according to international humanitarian law, international treaties for the protection of civilians and human rights, and the need to ensure that they are not targeted during conflict”. It is unlikely that a vote will be held immediately before discussion but looking at the volatile situation in the Middle East, there may be a demand to find a quick solution. Video: Israel-Hamas war | Relentless airstrikes force residents out of Northern Gaza city × The UNGA resolution, passed on Friday, did not condemn Hamas and this has enraged Israel which has made an appeal to stop funding the UN. “Every honest country should defund the UN. Until the bias stops and the antisemitism stops, we can no longer continue business as usual,” Israeli ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan told Fox News. He called the UNGA resolution "unfathomable" and alleged that the UN “completely lost its legitimacy and relevance”. Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: 1,400 displaced, hundreds of patients under threat as Israel bombs Al-Quds hospital vicinity UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has put his weight behind a humanitarian pause in the conflict. “The world is witnessing a humanitarian catastrophe taking place before our eyes. More than 2 million people, with nowhere safe to go, are being denied the essentials for life – food, water, shelter and medical care – while being subjected to relentless bombardment. “I urge all those with responsibility to step back from the brink.” Also Read | Earnings in the fog of war: Global companies dance to Israel-Hamas tune The Palestinian Red Crescent has said that though Israel has not allowed any fuel to reach the Gaza Strip, 94 humanitarian aid trucks have crossed into the enclave through the Rafah crossing. The aid is nowhere close to be adequate for people across Gaza. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UNSC prepares to hold emergency meeting on Israel-Hamas situation

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk warned on Saturday there was the potential for thousands more civilians to die as Israel presses a ground operation in Gaza.&nbsp;

Israel's army relentlessly hammered the territory on Saturday after fierce overnight bombardment that rescuers said destroyed hundreds of buildings three weeks into a war sparked by the deadliest attack in the country's history.&nbsp;

"Given the manner in which military operations have been conducted until now, in the context of the 56-year-old occupation, I am raising alarm about the possibly catastrophic consequences of large-scale ground operations in Gaza and the potential for thousands more civilians to die," Turk said.&nbsp;

"There is no safe place in Gaza and there is no way out. I am very worried for my colleagues, as I am for all civilians in Gaza."&nbsp;

Watch | Russia-Ukraine War | European firms helping Russia produce dagger missiles: Report

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Israel unleashed its bombing campaign after Hamas gunmen stormed across the Gaza border on October 7, killing 1,400 people, mostly civilians, and seizing more than 220 hostages, according to Israeli officials.&nbsp;

The health ministry in the Hamas-run Gaza said Israeli strikes had killed 7,703 people, mainly civilians, including more than 3,500 children.&nbsp;

The UN rights chief also condemned the Internet and telecommunications blackout that has hit the Palestinian enclave since Friday.&nbsp;

"Compounding the misery and suffering of civilians, Israeli strikes on telecommunications installations and subsequent Internet shutdown have effectively left Gazans with no way of knowing what is happening across Gaza and cut them off from the outside world," he said.&nbsp;

"Ambulances and civil defence teams are no longer able to locate the injured, or the thousands of people estimated to be still under the rubble.&nbsp;

"When these hostilities end, those who have survived will face the rubble of their homes and the graves of their family members," Turk said.&nbsp;

He called on all parties "to do all in their power to de-escalate the conflict".&nbsp;

The conflict is the fifth and deadliest in Gaza since Israel unilaterally withdrew from the Palestinian territory in 2005.&nbsp;

The latest Israeli strikes against Hamas, the Islamist group that has ruled Gaza since 2007, were the most intense since the war broke out. They coincided with ground operations.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk warned on Saturday there was the potential for thousands more civilians to die as Israel presses a ground operation in Gaza.

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk warned on Saturday there was the potential for thousands more civilians to die as Israel presses a ground operation in Gaza. Israel's army relentlessly hammered the territory on Saturday after fierce overnight bombardment that rescuers said destroyed hundreds of buildings three weeks into a war sparked by the deadliest attack in the country's history. "Given the manner in which military operations have been conducted until now, in the context of the 56-year-old occupation, I am raising alarm about the possibly catastrophic consequences of large-scale ground operations in Gaza and the potential for thousands more civilians to die," Turk said. "There is no safe place in Gaza and there is no way out. I am very worried for my colleagues, as I am for all civilians in Gaza." Watch | Russia-Ukraine War | European firms helping Russia produce dagger missiles: Report × Israel unleashed its bombing campaign after Hamas gunmen stormed across the Gaza border on October 7, killing 1,400 people, mostly civilians, and seizing more than 220 hostages, according to Israeli officials. The health ministry in the Hamas-run Gaza said Israeli strikes had killed 7,703 people, mainly civilians, including more than 3,500 children. The UN rights chief also condemned the Internet and telecommunications blackout that has hit the Palestinian enclave since Friday. "Compounding the misery and suffering of civilians, Israeli strikes on telecommunications installations and subsequent Internet shutdown have effectively left Gazans with no way of knowing what is happening across Gaza and cut them off from the outside world," he said. "Ambulances and civil defence teams are no longer able to locate the injured, or the thousands of people estimated to be still under the rubble. "When these hostilities end, those who have survived will face the rubble of their homes and the graves of their family members," Turk said. He called on all parties "to do all in their power to de-escalate the conflict". The conflict is the fifth and deadliest in Gaza since Israel unilaterally withdrew from the Palestinian territory in 2005. The latest Israeli strikes against Hamas, the Islamist group that has ruled Gaza since 2007, were the most intense since the war broke out. They coincided with ground operations. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UN warns of 'potential for thousands more to die' in Gaza

Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, on Tuesday (Oct 24), demanded UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres's immediate resignation after he alleged violations of international law in Gaza.

Taking to his official X handle, Erdan wrote, "The UN Secretary-General, who shows understanding for the campaign of mass murder of children, women, and the elderly, is not fit to lead the UN."

"I call on him to resign immediately. There is no justification or point in talking to those who show compassion for the most terrible atrocities committed against the citizens of Israel and the Jewish people. There are simply no words," he added.

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The <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> Secretary-General, who shows understanding for the campaign of mass murder of children, women, and the elderly, is not fit to lead the UN. 
 
I call on him to resign immediately. 
 
There is no justification or point in talking to those who show compassion for the most…
— Ambassador Gilad Erdan גלעד ארדן (@giladerdan1) <a href="https://twitter.com/giladerdan1/status/1716837646813614354?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen also recounted graphic accounts of civilian lives lost, on Oct 7, which is dubbed one of the deadliest single attacks in the country's history.

"Mr Secretary-General, in what world do you live?" Cohen said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-emmanuel-macron-proposes-international-coalition-against-hamas-650752">French President Emmanuel Macron proposes international coalition against Hamas</a>

Pointing out that Israel withdrew from Gaza in 2005, Cohen said, "We gave the Palestinians Gaza till the last millimetre. There is no dispute in regards to the land of Gaza."

<h2>Guterres alleges violations of humanitarian law in Gaza</h2>

Guterres, on Tuesday (Oct 24), raised concerns over violations of international humanitarian law in Gaza and called for an immediate ceasefire as the Israeli counter-offensive continues in the besieged Palestinian enclave.

Opening the session, Guterres said there was no excuse for the "appalling" violence by Hamas militants on Oct 7 but also cautioned against "collective punishment" of the Palestinians.

"I am deeply concerned about the clear violations of international humanitarian law that we are witnessing in Gaza. Let me be clear: No party to an armed conflict is above international humanitarian law," Guterres told a Security Council session, without naming Israel.

He said that the Palestinians had been "subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation," telling the Security Council: "It is important to also recognize the attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum."

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, on Tuesday (Oct 24), demanded UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres's immediate resignation after he alleged violations of international law in Gaza.

Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, on Tuesday (Oct 24), demanded UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres's immediate resignation after he alleged violations of international law in Gaza. Taking to his official X handle, Erdan wrote, "The UN Secretary-General, who shows understanding for the campaign of mass murder of children, women, and the elderly, is not fit to lead the UN." "I call on him to resign immediately. There is no justification or point in talking to those who show compassion for the most terrible atrocities committed against the citizens of Israel and the Jewish people. There are simply no words," he added. The @UN Secretary-General, who shows understanding for the campaign of mass murder of children, women, and the elderly, is not fit to lead the UN. I call on him to resign immediately. There is no justification or point in talking to those who show compassion for the most… — Ambassador Gilad Erdan גלעד ארדן (@giladerdan1) October 24, 2023 × Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen also recounted graphic accounts of civilian lives lost, on Oct 7, which is dubbed one of the deadliest single attacks in the country's history. "Mr Secretary-General, in what world do you live?" Cohen said. Also read: French President Emmanuel Macron proposes international coalition against Hamas Pointing out that Israel withdrew from Gaza in 2005, Cohen said, "We gave the Palestinians Gaza till the last millimetre. There is no dispute in regards to the land of Gaza." Guterres alleges violations of humanitarian law in Gaza Guterres, on Tuesday (Oct 24), raised concerns over violations of international humanitarian law in Gaza and called for an immediate ceasefire as the Israeli counter-offensive continues in the besieged Palestinian enclave. Opening the session, Guterres said there was no excuse for the "appalling" violence by Hamas militants on Oct 7 but also cautioned against "collective punishment" of the Palestinians. "I am deeply concerned about the clear violations of international humanitarian law that we are witnessing in Gaza. Let me be clear: No party to an armed conflict is above international humanitarian law," Guterres told a Security Council session, without naming Israel. He said that the Palestinians had been "subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation," telling the Security Council: "It is important to also recognize the attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israeli envoy demands resignation of UN Chief over his ‘Hamas attacks not in a vacuum remark’

An investigation by the United Nations has further discovered evidence which proves that Russian forces committed “indiscriminate attacks” and war crimes while carrying out an invasion of Ukraine, which included deportation of children to Moscow and rape. 
 
“The collected evidence further shows that Russian authorities have committed the war crimes of willful killing, torture, rape and other sexual violence, and the deportation of children to the Russian Federation,” stated a United Nations Commission of inquiry on Ukraine, in its report submitted to the UN general assembly. 
 
“The commission has recently documented attacks that affected civilian objects, such as residential buildings, a railway station, shops, and a warehouse for civilian use, leading to numerous casualties,” the inquiry added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-launches-missile-attack-on-postal-centre-in-kharkiv-kills-six-649843">Russia launches missile attack on postal centre in Kharkiv, six killed</a>

An arrest warrant was issued for Russian President Vladimir Putin by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in March for overseeing the abduction of Ukrainian children.

<h2>Russia faces strong opposition from Ukraine</h2>

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky along with top commanders visited Kherson's southern region where the Ukrainian troops were praised for defending Avdiivka and Kupiansk, two places where attacks have been intensified by Russia. 
 
“Thanks to all our boys, who powerfully hold the defence and destroy the occupier day after day,” said Zelensky, in a video shared on the Telegram messaging app. “These days, the Russian losses are really staggering, and it is precisely losses by the occupier that Ukraine needs,” he added. 
 
In October, a surprise offensive was launched by Russia on the eastern Ukrainian town of Avdiivka which as per reports resulted in serious losses for the forces of Moscow.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia launches 'most significant offensive operation' in Ukraine, eyes eastern Ukraine&nbsp;

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After gaining some ground initially, Russian troops found themselves facing strong opposition from Ukraine which counter-fired. 
 
“The initial Russian offensive operations in the Avdiivka area on October 10 also resulted in high verified Russian equipment losses,” wrote the Institute for the Study of War on X. The Institute for the Study of War is a thinktank based in Washington DC which regularly publishes analysis of the conflict. 
 
“The fact that Russian forces regrouped and re-launched assaults after the initial attacks suggests that either Russian forces believe they can feasibly take Avdiivka, or that the Russian military command is poorly prioritising offensive operations regardless of cost,” the thinktank stated.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

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An investigation by the United Nations has further discovered evidence which proves that Russian forces committed “indiscriminate attacks” and war crimes while carrying out an invasion of Ukraine, which included deportation of children to Moscow and rape.

An investigation by the United Nations has further discovered evidence which proves that Russian forces committed “indiscriminate attacks” and war crimes while carrying out an invasion of Ukraine, which included deportation of children to Moscow and rape. “The collected evidence further shows that Russian authorities have committed the war crimes of willful killing, torture, rape and other sexual violence, and the deportation of children to the Russian Federation,” stated a United Nations Commission of inquiry on Ukraine, in its report submitted to the UN general assembly. “The commission has recently documented attacks that affected civilian objects, such as residential buildings, a railway station, shops, and a warehouse for civilian use, leading to numerous casualties,” the inquiry added. ALSO READ | Russia launches missile attack on postal centre in Kharkiv, six killed An arrest warrant was issued for Russian President Vladimir Putin by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in March for overseeing the abduction of Ukrainian children. Russia faces strong opposition from Ukraine Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky along with top commanders visited Kherson's southern region where the Ukrainian troops were praised for defending Avdiivka and Kupiansk, two places where attacks have been intensified by Russia. “Thanks to all our boys, who powerfully hold the defence and destroy the occupier day after day,” said Zelensky, in a video shared on the Telegram messaging app. “These days, the Russian losses are really staggering, and it is precisely losses by the occupier that Ukraine needs,” he added. In October, a surprise offensive was launched by Russia on the eastern Ukrainian town of Avdiivka which as per reports resulted in serious losses for the forces of Moscow. Watch | Russia launches 'most significant offensive operation' in Ukraine, eyes eastern Ukraine After gaining some ground initially, Russian troops found themselves facing strong opposition from Ukraine which counter-fired. “The initial Russian offensive operations in the Avdiivka area on October 10 also resulted in high verified Russian equipment losses,” wrote the Institute for the Study of War on X. The Institute for the Study of War is a thinktank based in Washington DC which regularly publishes analysis of the conflict. “The fact that Russian forces regrouped and re-launched assaults after the initial attacks suggests that either Russian forces believe they can feasibly take Avdiivka, or that the Russian military command is poorly prioritising offensive operations regardless of cost,” the thinktank stated. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UN discovers more evidence which proves Russia's 'war crimes' in Ukraine

The United States, on Wednesday (Oct 18), vetoed a UN resolution calling for a "humanitarian pause" in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict stating that the Brazilian-drafted text did not make any mention of Israel's rights of self-defence.

Twelve Council members out of 15 voted in favour of the resolution put forward by Brazil, while Russia and Britain abstained.

"We are on the ground doing the hard work of diplomacy," U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, told the 15-member council after the vote. "We believe we need to let that diplomacy play out."

"Yes, resolutions are important. And yes, this council must speak out. But the actions we take must be informed by the facts on the ground and support direct diplomacy efforts. That can save lives. The council needs to get this right," she said.

"The United States is disappointed this resolution made no mention of Israel's rights of self-defence," she added.

The resolution said the Council "firmly condemns all violence and hostilities against civilians and all acts of terrorism."

It said that the body "unequivocally rejects and condemns the heinous terrorist attacks by Hamas... and the taking of hostages."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-let-aid-into-gaza-via-egypt-announces-prime-minister-benjamin-netanyahu-648492">Israel to let aid into Gaza via Egypt, announces PM Benjamin Netanyahu</a>

The text also "urges all parties to fully comply with their obligations under international law."

The vote comes after the Security Council, on Monday (Oct 16), rejected a Russian resolution denouncing coiling violence in the Middle East.

<h2>How Russian resolution for ceasefire failed to get through?</h2>

The Russian representative Vassily Nebenzia presented the resolution by stating that Moscow "condemns the deaths of Israeli civilians as well as the civilians in the Gaza strip. We condemn all violence and all terrorist attacks."

The vote by show of hands in the Council resulted in the rejection of the Russian resolution.&nbsp;

Five countries, including China, voted in favour of the resolution.

Four countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates and France, voted against the resolution. There were six abstentions in total.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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The United States, on Wednesday (Oct 18), vetoed a UN resolution calling for a "humanitarian pause" in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict stating that the Brazilian-drafted text did not make any mention of Israel's rights of self-defence.

The United States, on Wednesday (Oct 18), vetoed a UN resolution calling for a "humanitarian pause" in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict stating that the Brazilian-drafted text did not make any mention of Israel's rights of self-defence. Twelve Council members out of 15 voted in favour of the resolution put forward by Brazil, while Russia and Britain abstained. "We are on the ground doing the hard work of diplomacy," U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, told the 15-member council after the vote. "We believe we need to let that diplomacy play out." "Yes, resolutions are important. And yes, this council must speak out. But the actions we take must be informed by the facts on the ground and support direct diplomacy efforts. That can save lives. The council needs to get this right," she said. "The United States is disappointed this resolution made no mention of Israel's rights of self-defence," she added. The resolution said the Council "firmly condemns all violence and hostilities against civilians and all acts of terrorism." It said that the body "unequivocally rejects and condemns the heinous terrorist attacks by Hamas... and the taking of hostages." Also read: Israel to let aid into Gaza via Egypt, announces PM Benjamin Netanyahu The text also "urges all parties to fully comply with their obligations under international law." The vote comes after the Security Council, on Monday (Oct 16), rejected a Russian resolution denouncing coiling violence in the Middle East. How Russian resolution for ceasefire failed to get through? The Russian representative Vassily Nebenzia presented the resolution by stating that Moscow "condemns the deaths of Israeli civilians as well as the civilians in the Gaza strip. We condemn all violence and all terrorist attacks." The vote by show of hands in the Council resulted in the rejection of the Russian resolution. Five countries, including China, voted in favour of the resolution. Four countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates and France, voted against the resolution. There were six abstentions in total. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US vetoes UNSC resolution calling for 'humanitarian pause' in ongoing Israel-Hamas war

Israel's Ambassador to the United Nations Gilad Erdan on Sunday (Oct 15) slammed some of its officials on X, and "severed ties" with those who shook hands with an Iranian minister.&nbsp;

The United Nations was accused by him of "living under a rock" and having "blood on its hands". "The UN's support for and legitimisation of genocidal terrorists is a threat to civilization!," Ambassador Erdan wrote in one of his posts.

The ambassador was apparently miffed by a post shared by Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Co-ordinator Martin Griffiths. "The specter of death is hanging over #Gaza. With no water, no power, no food and no medicine, thousands will die. Plain and simple," Griffiths had posted.

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Thousands of Israelis were murdered and maimed in the Hamas Nazi’s barbaric terror attack. And tens of thousands more will be massacred in the future if this savage terror group is not obliterated. 
 
Have you been living under a rock? Your double standards truly know no bounds…… <a href="https://t.co/JQWQ34qv1I">https://t.co/JQWQ34qv1I</a>
— Ambassador Gilad Erdan גלעד ארדן (@giladerdan1) <a href="https://twitter.com/giladerdan1/status/1713574018354118684?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The comment reflected the stance of the United Nations on a warning issued by Israel to the people living in North Gaza, asking them to move south ahead of an expected ground attack by the Israeli forces.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/israel-vs-hamas-war-a-look-at-firepower-in-israeli-arsenal-645024">Israel vs Hamas war | A look at firepower in Israeli arsenal</a>

"Have you been living under a rock? Your double standards truly know no bounds," wrote Ambassador Erdan, in his post.&nbsp;

"Where was your outcry when Hamas funnelled all UN funds to dig terror tunnels and manufacture rockets targeting Israeli civilians? When Hamas diverted every resource -- water, energy, civilian infrastructure -- from the Gazan population, to their terror capabilities? Why have you never condemned this publicly?!" he stated.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/TWennesland?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Twennesland</a>, don’t forget to wash the blood of Israeli babies off your hands after that handshake. 
 
Today (!!!), senior UN official, Tor Wennesland not only met with the Iranian regime’s FM, but didn’t even bother condemning Iran for its role in the massacre of Israeli women and… <a href="https://t.co/EiFRcEZuLJ">pic.twitter.com/EiFRcEZuLJ</a>
— Ambassador Gilad Erdan גלעד ארדן (@giladerdan1) <a href="https://twitter.com/giladerdan1/status/1713240953354330152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"Your voluntary blindness to the facts played a pivotal role in the creation of the terror machine that Gaza is today. UN officials have zero credibility or legitimacy to reprimand the country at the forefront of the war on terror! While we try to rescue the hostages. Shame on you!," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>UN officials shake hands with Iran's finance minister&nbsp;</h2>

The ambassador then responded to a photo of United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Tor Wennesland, who was clicked shaking hands with Iran's finance minister.

In a withering comment, Ambassador Erdan said that Wennesland should not "forget to wash the blood of Israeli babies off your hands after that handshake".

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Palestine War stumps Palestinian tech sector

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"Today (!!!), senior UN official, Tor Wennesland not only met with the Iranian regime's FM, but didn't even bother condemning Iran for its role in the massacre of Israeli women and children," posted Ambassador Erdan.&nbsp;

"It's no secret that Hamas terrorists are openly praising Iran for funding, arming, and training them. At the VERY SAME TIME, Iran's leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, openly called on the Muslim world to expand the attack on Israel," he stated. The United Nations officials are yet to respond.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Israel's Ambassador to the United Nations Gilad Erdan on Sunday (Oct 15) slammed some of its officials on X, and "severed ties" with those who shook hands with an Iranian minister.

Israel's Ambassador to the United Nations Gilad Erdan on Sunday (Oct 15) slammed some of its officials on X, and "severed ties" with those who shook hands with an Iranian minister. The United Nations was accused by him of "living under a rock" and having "blood on its hands". "The UN's support for and legitimisation of genocidal terrorists is a threat to civilization!," Ambassador Erdan wrote in one of his posts. The ambassador was apparently miffed by a post shared by Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Co-ordinator Martin Griffiths. "The specter of death is hanging over #Gaza. With no water, no power, no food and no medicine, thousands will die. Plain and simple," Griffiths had posted. Thousands of Israelis were murdered and maimed in the Hamas Nazi’s barbaric terror attack. And tens of thousands more will be massacred in the future if this savage terror group is not obliterated. Have you been living under a rock? Your double standards truly know no bounds…… https://t.co/JQWQ34qv1I — Ambassador Gilad Erdan גלעד ארדן (@giladerdan1) October 15, 2023 × The comment reflected the stance of the United Nations on a warning issued by Israel to the people living in North Gaza, asking them to move south ahead of an expected ground attack by the Israeli forces. Also read: Israel vs Hamas war | A look at firepower in Israeli arsenal "Have you been living under a rock? Your double standards truly know no bounds," wrote Ambassador Erdan, in his post. "Where was your outcry when Hamas funnelled all UN funds to dig terror tunnels and manufacture rockets targeting Israeli civilians? When Hamas diverted every resource -- water, energy, civilian infrastructure -- from the Gazan population, to their terror capabilities? Why have you never condemned this publicly?!" he stated. @Twennesland, don’t forget to wash the blood of Israeli babies off your hands after that handshake. Today (!!!), senior UN official, Tor Wennesland not only met with the Iranian regime’s FM, but didn’t even bother condemning Iran for its role in the massacre of Israeli women and… pic.twitter.com/EiFRcEZuLJ — Ambassador Gilad Erdan גלעד ארדן (@giladerdan1) October 14, 2023 × "Your voluntary blindness to the facts played a pivotal role in the creation of the terror machine that Gaza is today. UN officials have zero credibility or legitimacy to reprimand the country at the forefront of the war on terror! While we try to rescue the hostages. Shame on you!," he added. UN officials shake hands with Iran's finance minister The ambassador then responded to a photo of United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Tor Wennesland, who was clicked shaking hands with Iran's finance minister. In a withering comment, Ambassador Erdan said that Wennesland should not "forget to wash the blood of Israeli babies off your hands after that handshake". WATCH | Israel-Palestine War stumps Palestinian tech sector "Today (!!!), senior UN official, Tor Wennesland not only met with the Iranian regime's FM, but didn't even bother condemning Iran for its role in the massacre of Israeli women and children," posted Ambassador Erdan. "It's no secret that Hamas terrorists are openly praising Iran for funding, arming, and training them. At the VERY SAME TIME, Iran's leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, openly called on the Muslim world to expand the attack on Israel," he stated. The United Nations officials are yet to respond. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israel envoy accuses UN of having 'blood on its hands' over Iran minister handshake

Eight United Nations (UN) peacekeepers have been detained over allegations of sexual abuse. In a statement on Wednesday (Oct 11), the UN's peace-keeping mission in eastern Congo, known as MONUSCO, said it had suspended a number of its peacekeepers in response to reports of the misconduct. At present, MONUSCO has around 17,000 personnel deployed in the east of the country.

"The Office of Internal Oversight Services has been seized of the matter and precautionary measures have already been initiated in line with the Secretary-General’s zero-tolerance policy for sexual exploitation and abuse and other forms of misconduct," the statement said.&nbsp;

"These initial measures include suspension from duty, detention, and confinement to quarters of concerned peacekeepers pending receipt of additional information on the allegations, including through the conduct of a full-fledged investigation," it added.

On Thursday, Stephane Dujjarric, the spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, told reporters, "Upon receiving information that contingent members from the UN peacekeeping force in the DRC deployed at a base in the eastern part of the country were fraternizing, after curfew hours, at an out of bounds bar known to be a place where transactional sex occurs, the UN Mission’s military police and conduct and discipline personnel visited the premises to assess the reports they had received."

"After confirming their presence and attempting to detain the contingent members for breaching the UN’s standards of conduct and the Mission’s non-fraternization policy, UN Mission personnel were physically assaulted and threatened by the contingent members," he added.&nbsp;

For years, MONUSCO and other UN peacekeeping missions in Africa have been plagued by allegations of sexual misconduct. The UN has created special units to combat sexual abuse and assist victims. However, the UN has struggled to stop the problem.&nbsp;

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Eight United Nations (UN) peacekeepers have been detained over allegations of sexual abuse. In a statement on Wednesday (Oct 11), the UN's peace-keeping mission in eastern Congo, known as MONUSCO, said it had suspended a number of its peacekeepers in response to reports of the misconduct.

Eight United Nations (UN) peacekeepers have been detained over allegations of sexual abuse. In a statement on Wednesday (Oct 11), the UN's peace-keeping mission in eastern Congo, known as MONUSCO, said it had suspended a number of its peacekeepers in response to reports of the misconduct. At present, MONUSCO has around 17,000 personnel deployed in the east of the country. "The Office of Internal Oversight Services has been seized of the matter and precautionary measures have already been initiated in line with the Secretary-General’s zero-tolerance policy for sexual exploitation and abuse and other forms of misconduct," the statement said. "These initial measures include suspension from duty, detention, and confinement to quarters of concerned peacekeepers pending receipt of additional information on the allegations, including through the conduct of a full-fledged investigation," it added. On Thursday, Stephane Dujjarric, the spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, told reporters, "Upon receiving information that contingent members from the UN peacekeeping force in the DRC deployed at a base in the eastern part of the country were fraternizing, after curfew hours, at an out of bounds bar known to be a place where transactional sex occurs, the UN Mission’s military police and conduct and discipline personnel visited the premises to assess the reports they had received." "After confirming their presence and attempting to detain the contingent members for breaching the UN’s standards of conduct and the Mission’s non-fraternization policy, UN Mission personnel were physically assaulted and threatened by the contingent members," he added. For years, MONUSCO and other UN peacekeeping missions in Africa have been plagued by allegations of sexual misconduct. The UN has created special units to combat sexual abuse and assist victims. However, the UN has struggled to stop the problem. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Eight UN peacekeepers detained in Congo over sexual abuse allegations

The military junta in Mali is aiming to take over a key United Nations military camp in the rebel stronghold of Kidal, reported AFP citing a senior official. Hostilities with Tuareg rebels in the region have resumed and the UN camp is one of the major prizes

The army has faced a series of attacks in recent weeks in northern Mali. These have coincided with the ongoing withdrawal of the UN stabilisation force MINUSMA. The UN force is handing over its camps to Malian authorities. Three more are due to follow this month. However, the separatists are claiming that these camps should be returned to their control.

The UN mission will vacate the Kidal camp along with two other sites (Ansongo and Mopti) in November, said Madou Diallo, the foreign ministry's director for international organisations in an online video on Monday.

Post this, only three camps should remain (Gao, Timbuktu and the capital Bamako). Handing over these camps would mark the "liquidation" of UN forces in Mali. AFP quoted an official who said that the Kidal camp was to be handed over between November 15 and 30.

Last week, a convoy of dozens of army vehicles left the city of Gao which is 300 kilometres southwest of Kidal. This set of speculation about an offensive against rebel bases in the Kidal region.

The convoy came under attack on Saturday and&nbsp;the army said that the soldiers had taken control of Anefis. It is a town 110 kms south of Kidal.

Almou Ag Mohamed, a spokesperson for the Permanent Strategic Framework for Peace, Security and Development (CSP), a coalition of armed rebel factions, confirmed to AFP that the army was in Anefis.&nbsp;

After a decade of conflict in the country, an offensive in the rebel bases in Kidal could mark a turning point.

After initially launching a rebellion in 2012, the predominantly Tuareg armed groups signed a peace agreement with the state in 2015, but in August they resumed hostilities. &nbsp;

Attacks against Malian army camps by both the separatist groups and jihadists have increased. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

The military junta in Mali is aiming to take over a key United Nations military camp in the rebel stronghold of Kidal, reported AFP citing a senior official. Hostilities with Tuareg rebels in the region have resumed and the UN camp is one of the major prizes The army has faced a series of attacks in recent weeks in northern Mali.

The military junta in Mali is aiming to take over a key United Nations military camp in the rebel stronghold of Kidal, reported AFP citing a senior official. Hostilities with Tuareg rebels in the region have resumed and the UN camp is one of the major prizes The army has faced a series of attacks in recent weeks in northern Mali. These have coincided with the ongoing withdrawal of the UN stabilisation force MINUSMA. The UN force is handing over its camps to Malian authorities. Three more are due to follow this month. However, the separatists are claiming that these camps should be returned to their control. The UN mission will vacate the Kidal camp along with two other sites (Ansongo and Mopti) in November, said Madou Diallo, the foreign ministry's director for international organisations in an online video on Monday. Post this, only three camps should remain (Gao, Timbuktu and the capital Bamako). Handing over these camps would mark the "liquidation" of UN forces in Mali. AFP quoted an official who said that the Kidal camp was to be handed over between November 15 and 30. Last week, a convoy of dozens of army vehicles left the city of Gao which is 300 kilometres southwest of Kidal. This set of speculation about an offensive against rebel bases in the Kidal region. The convoy came under attack on Saturday and the army said that the soldiers had taken control of Anefis. It is a town 110 kms south of Kidal. Almou Ag Mohamed, a spokesperson for the Permanent Strategic Framework for Peace, Security and Development (CSP), a coalition of armed rebel factions, confirmed to AFP that the army was in Anefis. After a decade of conflict in the country, an offensive in the rebel bases in Kidal could mark a turning point. After initially launching a rebellion in 2012, the predominantly Tuareg armed groups signed a peace agreement with the state in 2015, but in August they resumed hostilities.  Attacks against Malian army camps by both the separatist groups and jihadists have increased.  (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Mali: Military junta aims takeover of key UN camp in north

The United Nations on Friday (Oct 6)&nbsp;urged Iran to free Narges Mohammadi, moments after the jailed activist was awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace.

Mohammadi, 51, is a journalist-activist who spent much of past 20 years in and out of jail for campaigning against mandatory dress code for women and the death penalty.

"The women of Iran have been an inspiration for the world," news agency AFP quoted the UN human rights office as saying.

"Their courage and determination in the face of reprisals, intimidation, violence and detention has been remarkable. They have been harassed for what they wear and what they do not wear, and face increasingly stringent legal, social and economic measures against them."

"Narges Mohammadi's case is emblematic of the huge risks that women take to advocate for the rights of all Iranians. We call for her release and the release of all human rights defenders jailed in Iran."

Human rights office spokeswoman Elizabeth Throssell at a press briefing in Geneva said that the Nobel award for Mohammadi "really highlights the courage and determination of the women of Iran and how they are an inspiration".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-human-rights-activist-narges-mohammadi-gets-nobel-peace-prize-643284">Nobel Peace Prize 2023 for Iranian human rights activist Narges Mohammadi</a>

UN spokeswoman Alessandra Vellucci said respect for women's rights had always been an "extremely important point" for the United Nations.

"We stand for the rights of women around the world, including in Iran," she told the briefing.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres "has been very clear in his defence in the human rights of women and girls in Iran", she added.

<h2>Mohammadi still in prison</h2>

Mohammadi has been detained by the Iranian regime on 13 occasions, received convictions on five occasions, and faced a cumulative sentence of 31 years in prison, along with 154 lashings.

Earlier this year, she was among the three imprisoned Iranian journalists who were honoured with the United Nations' World Press Freedom Prize.

The Norwegian Nobel Committee on Friday (Oct 6) said, "This year’s peace prize also recognises the hundreds of thousands of people who have demonstrated against the theocratic regime’s policies of discrimination and oppression targeting women."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United Nations on Friday (Oct 6) urged Iran to free Narges Mohammadi, moments after the jailed activist was awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace. Mohammadi, 51, is a journalist-activist who spent much of past 20 years in and out of jail for campaigning against mandatory dress code for women and the death penalty.

The United Nations on Friday (Oct 6) urged Iran to free Narges Mohammadi, moments after the jailed activist was awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace. Mohammadi, 51, is a journalist-activist who spent much of past 20 years in and out of jail for campaigning against mandatory dress code for women and the death penalty. "The women of Iran have been an inspiration for the world," news agency AFP quoted the UN human rights office as saying. "Their courage and determination in the face of reprisals, intimidation, violence and detention has been remarkable. They have been harassed for what they wear and what they do not wear, and face increasingly stringent legal, social and economic measures against them." "Narges Mohammadi's case is emblematic of the huge risks that women take to advocate for the rights of all Iranians. We call for her release and the release of all human rights defenders jailed in Iran." Human rights office spokeswoman Elizabeth Throssell at a press briefing in Geneva said that the Nobel award for Mohammadi "really highlights the courage and determination of the women of Iran and how they are an inspiration". Also read: Nobel Peace Prize 2023 for Iranian human rights activist Narges Mohammadi UN spokeswoman Alessandra Vellucci said respect for women's rights had always been an "extremely important point" for the United Nations. "We stand for the rights of women around the world, including in Iran," she told the briefing. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres "has been very clear in his defence in the human rights of women and girls in Iran", she added. Mohammadi still in prison Mohammadi has been detained by the Iranian regime on 13 occasions, received convictions on five occasions, and faced a cumulative sentence of 31 years in prison, along with 154 lashings. Earlier this year, she was among the three imprisoned Iranian journalists who were honoured with the United Nations' World Press Freedom Prize. The Norwegian Nobel Committee on Friday (Oct 6) said, "This year’s peace prize also recognises the hundreds of thousands of people who have demonstrated against the theocratic regime’s policies of discrimination and oppression targeting women." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

United Nations urges Iran to free Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi

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