Cyprus talks show ‘new atmosphere’ between divided island’s leaders: Guterres
There’s a positive “new atmosphere” surrounding the discussions, Secretary-General António Guterres said on Tuesday. Speaking in Geneva after a second day of informal talks, the UN chief underscored his commitment to ensuring the security and well-being of the Cypriots –…
LIVE NOW: ‘Abject fear’ returns to Gaza, Security Council hears, as UN calls for urgent renewal of ceasefire and hostage releases
The UN Security Council met in New York on Tuesday on the Middle East crisis, exactly two months since the start of the fragile Gaza ceasefire and hostages deal came into effect. That’s been shattered by deadly Israeli airstrikes overnight…
Syria: Relative of Assad regime’s disappeared speaks of anguish in search for truth and justice
Obeida Dabbagh’s brother Mazen, and nephew Patrick – both Syrian-French nationals – were arrested by Air Force Intelligence officials in November 2013. Held for years and tortured, there were falsely declared dead in 2018 “years after they disappeared,” Mr. Dabbagh…
Funding shortages risk undermining a ‘watershed moment’ for Syria
In a video message to the conference Standing with Syria: Meeting the Needs for a Successful Transition, organized by the European Union in Brussels, he underlined the gravity of the situation. “This is a watershed moment,” said the UN chief,…
Afghanistan: Security Council renews UN mission as WHO warns of health catastrophe
Unanimously adopting resolution 2777 (2025), the 15-member council stressed the “critical importance” of a continued presence of UNAMA and other UN agencies across Afghanistan. The council also expressed appreciation for the UN’s long-term commitment to the country and its people,…
Starmer: ‘Sooner or later’ Russia must yield to peace
Britain’s leader encouraged his global counterparts to continue pushing for a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine at the start of a virtual meeting Saturday intended to end the fighting between the two countries. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer told a…
‘Is this just a long, beautiful dream?’: Syrian filmmaker Waad Al-Kateab on her country’s future
After 14 years of war, Syria has entered a new and uncertain chapter. The country is devastated – 90 per cent of Syrians live in poverty. Despite the challenges up to one million people living in camps and displacement sites…
‘Time for bold moves’: UN urges inclusive transition as Syria marks 14 years of conflict
UN Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen called for an immediate end to hostilities and urged all parties to protect civilians in accordance with international law. “What began as a plea for reform was met with staggering brutality, leading to…
UN chief affirms solidarity with Bangladesh amid political transition
Speaking to the media on Saturday, the Secretary-General praised Bangladesh’s progress and highlighted the role of the international community in supporting the country’s future. “I am particularly pleased to be in Bangladesh at this important moment in your national journey,”…
NASA, SpaceX launch crew to space station to retrieve stuck astronauts
The replacement crew for the International Space Station was launched late Friday, paving the way for the return home of Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, two NASA astronauts stuck on the space station for nine months. The SpaceX Falcon 9…