Nations gathered in Busan, South Korea are working towards the world’s first treaty to curb plastic pollution, facing major divisions on key issues such as decision-making process, sustainable production, chemicals of concern, finance, and globally binding versus nationally determined rules. Countries are at odds over consensus versus majority vote, mandating reductions in new plastic production, addressing harmful chemicals, financing implementation, and setting global standards versus individual targets. The outcome of these discussions remains uncertain as negotiations continue in an effort to reach a consensus on these critical points.
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Former prisoner revisits Syrian airbase ordeal
The surrender of the Mazzeh air base triggered Israeli air strikes to prevent Assad's former arsenal from falling into rebel hands. A former detainee revisited the site, recounting his month-long ordeal in Assad's detention center. The rebels now control the base, where evidence of abuse, drug production, and destruction by airstrikes is evident. Full Article
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