Plastic pollution talks: the key sticking points

The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) denied reports of withdrawing its endorsement of Congressman Randy Fine, who had controversially stated, "starve away," in response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Fine's remarks drew backlash, including condemnation from various politicians, while AIPAC clarified that its endorsement decisions for the 2026 election are ongoing and Fine's status would be evaluated later. Want More Context? 🔎

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned Chinese officials that continued purchases of sanctioned Russian oil could lead to significant tariffs due to new Congressional legislation, but China insisted on protecting its energy sovereignty. He also expressed U.S. concerns about China's Iranian oil purchases and dual-use technology sales to Russia, noting these actions could hurt China's trade relations with Europe. Want More Context? 🔎

A UN conference in New York, co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France, adopted an "integrated and actionable framework" for a two-state solution between Palestinians and Israel, as announced by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan. The conference, amid ongoing violence in Gaza that has resulted in over 60,000 Palestinian deaths, emphasized the need for Palestinian rights and accountability, while Israel and the US opposed the initiative. Want More Context? 🔎

The U.S. State Department announced the repatriation of a U.S. citizen minor from a displaced persons camp in northeast Syria to reunite with family, amid concerns for the 30,000 individuals, mostly children, still residing in the camps. They emphasized that repatriation by countries of origin is essential for a lasting solution to the crisis in these camps. Want More Context? 🔎

The UK condemned Israel's restrictions on humanitarian aid to Gaza, labeling them an “affront” to the UN charter, and announced plans to recognize the State of Palestine during the upcoming UN General Assembly. Foreign Secretary David Lammy emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire and political negotiations amid escalating malnutrition and hunger crises in Gaza, with reported deaths from starvation rising. Want More Context? 🔎

Spain's Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares advocated for a two-state solution for Palestine, emphasizing it as the only viable path to peace and a product of Israeli-Palestinian negotiations, not external imposition. He warned that failure to act would result in ongoing violence, highlighting the humanitarian crisis in Gaza due to the Israeli blockade and military actions since October 2023. Want More Context? 🔎