Six months after deposing Assad, Syria faces security, economic challenges

The US vetoed a UN Security Council draft resolution for an "unconditional and permanent" ceasefire in Gaza, which received support from the other 14 members. US Ambassador Dorothy Shea argued the resolution would undermine diplomatic efforts and criticized it for not condemning Hamas, which is labeled a terrorist organization by the US, UK, and EU. As humanitarian conditions worsen in Gaza, with over two million at risk of starvation, the UK's ambassador emphasized the need...

The United States vetoed a UN Security Council resolution on a ceasefire and humanitarian access in Gaza, arguing it would undermine diplomatic efforts and embolden Hamas. This marked the first vote by the 15-member body since November, with the resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and the lifting of restrictions on humanitarian aid, amid increasing international pressure on Israel following the October 7 Hamas attack. The veto has drawn criticism, especially...

Hajj Pilgrimage in MeccaMore than 1.4 million Muslims have commenced this year's Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, following last year's tragic incident where 1,300 people died due to extreme heat. In response, Saudi authorities have enhanced safety measures, including planting trees, installing cooling units, and banning children under 12, while enforcing fines for unregistered pilgrims. The first day's rituals included changing into Ihram, circling the Kaaba, and traveling to Mina, with guidelines to mitigate heat effects...

ACCORDING TO THE unofficial ideologue of Israel’s government, Bezalel Smotrich, the finance minister, claims the war in Gaza is progressing positively, with a new aid distribution plan seen as a “game-changer” against Hamas. Despite his previous opposition to ceasefires, he now supports the government's aim to defeat Hamas, although the ultra-Orthodox coalition partners may threaten the government over a military service exemption law for religious students. Smotrich's stance indicates his willingness to remain in the...

Ireland's prestigious Trinity College Dublin announced it will sever all ties with Israel due to ongoing violations of international and humanitarian law, as recommended by a taskforce following student protests. The university will divest from all Israeli companies, halt future contracts and mobility agreements with Israeli universities, and refrain from new research collaborations involving Israeli participation. This decision aligns with Ireland's strong pro-Palestinian sentiment and its recent recognition of Palestine as a sovereign state, amid...

On April 12, 2024, the US and Iran began their first nuclear negotiations under the Trump administration since September 2023, exploring options for allowing and blocking Iranian uranium enrichment amidst complex diplomatic discussions. Central to these talks is the issue of Iran's advanced centrifuges, which pose a significant threat as they can enable rapid nuclear weapon production if not destroyed. Ultimately, the negotiations appear more focused on providing symbolic victories for both leaders rather than...