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Gaza War: UN General Assembly To Vote On Gaza Ceasefire And Hostage Release Resolution

December 11, 2024, 10:33 am

UN General Assembly is set to vote Wednesday on a draft resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, following the United States’ veto of a similar measure in the UN Security Council. Although non-binding, the resolution seeks an “immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire,” the release of all hostages, and unrestricted humanitarian aid access to Gaza’s war-affected citizens.

The draft resolution responds to the prolonged conflict between Israel and Hamas, which escalated after Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack that killed 1,208 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally. Hostage-taking during the attack left 251 individuals in captivity, with 96 still held in Gaza, including 34 reported dead. In retaliation, Israel’s military offensive has claimed over 44,786 lives, primarily civilians, according to Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry, data the UN considers reliable.

Palestinian UN Ambassador Riyad Mansour called Gaza “the bleeding heart of Palestine,” urging nations to act decisively. He described the humanitarian crisis as an ongoing nightmare that demands immediate international intervention.

Israel has criticized the resolution, with Israeli UN Ambassador Danny Danon accusing the UN of enabling a “glorification of terror.” The draft also requests UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to propose mechanisms to ensure accountability for violations of international law in Gaza.

A separate draft resolution seeks to ensure Israel respects UNRWA’s mandate, enabling continued humanitarian operations. Israel’s decision to ban the agency, effective January 28, has drawn global condemnation, including from its ally, the United States.

Vulnerable Nations Demand Legal Action Against Major Emitters At ICJ Climate Hearing

December 2, 2024, 6:29 pm

Representatives from vulnerable nations have called for legal accountability for the climate crisis, addressing the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague this week. During the landmark hearing, Ralph Regenvanu, Vanuatu’s special envoy for climate change and environment, emphasized that a small group of nations, responsible for the majority of global emissions, must bear the responsibility for the ongoing environmental devastation. Pacific island nations, including Vanuatu, are already grappling with rising sea levels and severe climate disasters, and Regenvanu stressed that they are “on the frontlines of a crisis we did not create.”

The hearing follows years of advocacy led by Vanuatu and Pacific island law students. In March 2023, the UN General Assembly unanimously called on the ICJ to clarify states’ legal obligations regarding climate change and the consequences of inaction. Over the course of two weeks, the court will hear from 98 nations, including major historical emitters like the UK and Russia, as well as those least responsible but most affected, such as Bangladesh and Sudan.

Legal counsel for the Melanesian Spearhead Group, which includes Vanuatu, argued that the climate crisis directly threatens self-determination, linking it to the injustices of colonialism. The group also highlighted that some states have violated international law by supporting fossil fuel extraction and failing to curb emissions. Margaretha Wewerinke-Singh, lead counsel for Vanuatu, called for reparations proportionate to the historic harm caused by these states.

The ICJ’s advisory opinion could set a significant precedent for future climate litigation, though its recommendations will not be legally binding.

Jaishankar Calls for Urgent Solutions to Ukraine and Gaza Conflicts at UN General Assembly

September 29, 2024, 8:29 am

S. Jaishankar emphasized the urgent need for solutions to the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza during the General Debate of the 79th UN General Assembly. He warned the global community against being “fatalistic” about the ongoing large-scale violence, stating that the Gaza conflict is already “acquiring wider ramifications.” Jaishankar urged that the international community must act swiftly to address these crises.

The conflict in Gaza began with Israel’s offensive as a response to Hamas’ attack on October 7. However, what was initially a limited conflict has escalated to involve Lebanon, with Israel targeting Hezbollah positions, raising concerns of a broader conflict in the Middle East.

“We are gathered here at a difficult time,” Jaishankar said, noting that the world is still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. He highlighted that the war in Ukraine has entered its third year, and the Gaza conflict is expanding its impact.

Hezbollah confirmed the death of its leader, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, in an Israeli airstrike on Saturday.

Jaishankar reminded the assembly that the UN has always held that peace and development are interconnected. “Yet, when challenges arise, the relationship between the two is often overlooked,” he remarked, emphasizing the economic ramifications for the weak and vulnerable.

He continued, “Conflicts themselves must be resolved. The world cannot adopt a fatalistic attitude towards the ongoing violence, nor can we ignore its wider implications.”

Jaishankar asserted that the international community seeks urgent resolutions to these conflicts, urging that these sentiments be recognized and acted upon. He characterized the current global landscape as fractious, polarized, and frustrated, stating that communication has become challenging and reaching agreements even more so. “This is surely not what the founders of the United Nations envisioned for us,” he added.

Regarding global security and stability, Jaishankar stressed that those in leadership positions must set a proper example.

In a separate address, he criticized Pakistan for its role in fostering terrorism, stating that the consequences of its actions are now affecting its own society.

“Many countries fall behind due to circumstances beyond their control, but some make conscious choices that lead to disastrous outcomes. A prime example is our neighbor, Pakistan,” he stated. “Today, we see the issues it tried to impose on others consume its own society. It cannot blame the world; this is simply karma,” he concluded.

Shehbaz Sharif Raises Kashmir Issue At UNGA; S Jaishankar To Respond

September 28, 2024, 6:57 am

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif once again brought attention to the Kashmir issue during his speech at the UN General Assembly (UNGA) on Friday. Here are the key points from his address:

1. Call to Reverse Article 370
Sharif urged India to reverse the abrogation of Article 370 to secure lasting peace. He suggested that India engage in dialogue for a peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir issue.

2. Referencing Burhan Wani
In his speech, Sharif made references to Hizbul terrorist Burhan Wani, claiming that his legacy continues to inspire the struggle of Kashmiris. He stated that India’s oppressive policies have fueled this resistance.

3. Comparison with Palestine
The Pakistani PM compared the struggles of the people of Jammu and Kashmir to those of Palestinians, claiming both groups have fought for self-determination for decades.

4. Accusations of Brutality
Sharif accused India of moving away from its commitments to implement UN Security Council resolutions regarding Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing the need for a plebiscite for Kashmiris to exercise their right to self-determination.

5. Claims of Islamophobia
Sharif also highlighted what he described as a rising tide of Islamophobia in India, alleging a Hindu supremacist agenda aimed at subjugating the 200 million Muslims in the country.

Upcoming Rebuttal from India

India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is scheduled to address the UNGA, where he is expected to issue a strong rebuttal to Pakistan’s allegations. New Delhi has consistently maintained that Jammu and Kashmir are integral parts of India and has urged Pakistan to focus on its internal issues instead of raising the Kashmir matter on international platforms.

Context of Rising Tensions

Tensions between India and Pakistan heightened after India revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir by abrogating Article 370 on August 5, 2019. Since then, Pakistan has frequently raised the issue at various international forums, often without gaining significant support.

UN General Assembly Convenes Amid Rising Sea Levels And Climate Threats

September 27, 2024, 4:18 pm

Contaminated Water Sources Pose Serious Challenges

Kiribati, a Pacific nation surrounded by vast ocean, is grappling with a freshwater crisis as rising sea levels contaminate underground wells and saturate soil with salt. Climate activist Christine Tekanene emphasizes the dire situation, stating, “Our waters have been infected. Those who are affected can’t survive with the water that has changed after sea level rise.”

Ongoing Threats to Food and Water Security

The freshwater crisis is just one aspect of the numerous threats Kiribati faces due to climate change. The nation, consisting of low-lying atolls just a few meters above sea level, is increasingly vulnerable to flooding, coastal erosion, and persistent food and water insecurity. As global temperatures rise and ice sheets melt, Kiribati finds itself on the front lines of climate change.

UN Assembly to Address Sea Level Rise

This week, the United Nations General Assembly will hold a high-level meeting aimed at addressing the existential threats posed by rising seas. The meeting seeks to build political consensus on the social, economic, and legal repercussions of climate change, particularly for vulnerable island nations like Kiribati.

Relocation Discussions and Local Resilience

Discussions surrounding potential population relocations are contentious. While some nations, such as Tuvalu, have started to prepare for this possibility, Kiribati has recently re-evaluated its prior decision to purchase land in Fiji for relocation. Ambassador Fatumanava Dr. Pa’olelei Luteru highlights the determination of many small island states to resist such measures, stating, “There’s a clear expression from people that they do not want to move.”

Urgent Need for Action

Experts emphasize the urgent need for world leaders to acknowledge the reality of disappearing homelands. Dr. Benjamin Strauss, CEO of Climate Central, warns that while some impacts of sea level rise can be delayed, the long-term effects will inevitably threaten many Pacific atolls.

Kamal Amakrane from the Global Centre for Climate Mobility underscores the importance of providing dignified relocation options for those affected, stressing that financial support from wealthier nations will be crucial.

Kiribati’s Future at Stake

Kiribati anticipates severe challenges ahead, with a recent NASA assessment projecting a sea level rise of up to 50 centimeters by 2050, irrespective of global emissions cuts. Activists like Tekanene are urging developed nations to take responsibility for their historical emissions and assist in protecting Kiribati from impending disaster, emphasizing that “they can help prevent it … they can do it more than us.”

After US, France, UK PM Keir Starmer Backs India For Permanent UN Security Council Seat

September 27, 2024, 1:31 pm

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, during his address at the 79th session of the UN General Assembly on Thursday, expressed support for India becoming a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). This comes after similar endorsements from US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron.

Starmer called for a reformation of the UNSC, advocating for a more representative body that can act decisively, rather than being hindered by politics. He stated, “We want to see permanent African representation on the Council, Brazil, India, Japan, and Germany as permanent members, along with more seats for elected members.”

Currently, the UNSC comprises five permanent members Russia, the UK, China, France, and the US—who hold veto powers, and 10 non-permanent members elected for two-year terms.

The UK PM’s comments echo French President Macron’s recent endorsement for India’s inclusion, along with Brazil, Japan, Germany, and two African nations. Macron emphasized the need for the UNSC to become more inclusive and representative.

US President Biden has also reiterated his support for India’s inclusion in the UNSC, reaffirming this stance during bilateral talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 21. This call for reform was further highlighted in a joint statement by leaders of the Quad (US, India, Japan, and Australia) at their recent summit.

Biden And Clinton Back Bangladesh’s Interim Leader Yunus

September 25, 2024, 4:01 am

US President Joe Biden met with Bangladesh’s new interim leader Muhammad Yunus on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, signaling strong U.S. support for Yunus following his recent appointment. Yunus, a Nobel laureate, assumed leadership after a student-led uprising ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled the country.

Biden praised Yunus for his efforts to rebuild Bangladesh, pledging continued U.S. assistance to support the country’s reform agenda. The White House emphasized the “shared democratic values” between the U.S. and Bangladesh.

Yunus Thanks Student Revolutionaries

During the meeting, Yunus shared the story of how the students in Bangladesh “rose against tyranny” and helped usher in a new era for the nation. He presented Biden with a book of paintings created by the young revolutionaries, symbolizing the hope and vision for Bangladesh’s future.

Clinton Praises Yunus at Global Initiative

Former U.S. President Bill Clinton, a longtime friend of Yunus, spoke highly of his work during the Clinton Global Initiative’s annual meeting. Clinton highlighted their 40-year friendship and the global impact of Yunus’s microfinance revolution, which empowered impoverished women through small loans.

Clinton praised Yunus’s ability to “stay in the future business” by remaining relevant and committed to global change. Yunus, in turn, acknowledged the students of Bangladesh for driving the revolution and expressed hope for the country’s successful transformation.

Sheikh Hasina Ousted After Uprising

Sheikh Hasina’s government faced widespread criticism for human rights abuses, including mass detentions and extrajudicial killings. Over 450 people lost their lives in the violence leading up to her removal, and many of her allies have since been arrested or purged from power.

Although the U.S. had maintained cooperation with Hasina on issues like counterterrorism, her government’s backsliding on democratic values drew criticism from Washington. Now, under Yunus’s leadership, Bangladesh looks to rebuild with international support.

PM Modi Heads to US for Quad Leaders’ Summit and UNGA Speech

September 21, 2024, 8:16 am

Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed for a three-day visit to the United States, where he will participate in the Quad Leaders’ Summit and address the United Nations General Assembly’s ‘Summit of the Future.’ He will also meet with the Indian diaspora during the trip.

Attending the Quad Leaders’ Summit

PM Modi will join the sixth Quad Leaders’ Summit in Wilmington, Delaware, hosted by US President Joe Biden. The Quad, an alliance comprising India, Australia, Japan, and the United States, focuses on fostering peace, prosperity, and inclusivity in the Indo-Pacific region. The summit will review progress made over the past year and set the agenda for future cooperation, with India set to host the Quad Summit in 2025.

The Quad, which first met virtually in 2021, has held several in-person meetings in the US and Japan. This summit will be an opportunity for PM Modi to thank President Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Kishida for their leadership in the partnership.

Addressing the UN General Assembly

On September 23, PM Modi will address the ‘Summit of the Future’ at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The summit, themed ‘Multilateral Solutions for a Better Tomorrow,’ has been described by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres as a “once in a generation” event as the UN approaches its 80th anniversary. Global leaders will gather to discuss key issues, and PM Modi will also engage in bilateral meetings with other world leaders.

Engaging with Indian Diaspora and Business Leaders

On September 22, PM Modi will speak to the Indian community in New York. Additionally, he will meet with top CEOs from leading US companies to explore collaboration in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, semiconductors, and biotechnology. He is also expected to interact with key figures in the India-US partnership.

Strengthening Strategic ties between US and India

Defence, trade, and people-to-people ties are just a few of the areas in which India and the US have a broad strategic alliance. Several military drills, including Yudh Abhyas and Malabar, are conducted jointly by the two countries. With bilateral commerce estimated to be worth USD 190.1 billion in 2023, the US is also India’s biggest trading partner.

India Calls for Comprehensive Reform of UN Security Council at General Assembly

June 26, 2024, 8:25 am

India criticized the current state of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) annual report debate, calling it a “ritual without much substance” during a UN General Assembly (UNGA) session. Pratik Mathur, Minister at India’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations, emphasized that the report should inform, highlight, and analyze measures taken to maintain international peace and security. He also advocated for a comprehensive reform of the UNSC to expand both permanent and non-permanent membership.

“We welcome the opportunity to participate in the debate on the Report of the Security Council. We thank the members of the Security Council and the Secretariat for producing the annual report of the Security Council,” Mathur stated. He also congratulated the newly elected members of the Council for the 2025-2026 period, expressing a desire to work constructively with them.

Mathur highlighted that the UN Charter assigns significant importance to the report, as evidenced by the specific provision mandating it. He noted that the annual report should detail and analyze measures taken to maintain international peace and security. However, the debate has become perfunctory, with the reports being mere compilations of meetings and outcome documents. Last year, only six monthly reports were compiled, indicating a lack of interest among members.

Mathur also pointed out the inadequacy of information on UN peacekeeping operations within the report. He called for a timeline for completing the report, circulating it to wider General Assembly members, and holding the debate. “The annual report, in its truest form, is also meant to be an analysis on the UN peacekeeping operations… However, in reality, we find there is little information on how peacekeeping operations are run,” he said. Mathur stressed the need for a better partnership between the Security Council and Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs).

He reiterated the need for the UNSC to align with its Charter responsibility to represent the entire membership, which requires expanding both permanent and non-permanent categories. “We remain convinced that the only remedy is a comprehensive reform of the Security Council… This will enable the Council to manage effectively today’s conflicts around the globe as well as the increasingly complex and interconnected global challenges it faces today,” Mathur added.

Finally, Mathur called for the UNSC to prove its credibility and improve its performance, aligning with the United Nations’ focus on performance assessment. He urged that the views and comments of Member States be given serious consideration.

Jaishankar to address the UN General Assembly on September 26

September 22, 2023, 3:54 pm

S. Jaishankar, the Indian delegation’s minister of external affairs, will travel to New York for a week to attend the UN General Assembly. A high-level session of the 78th UNGA is where Jaishankar, who is leaving for his trip to the US today, is expected to speak on September 26. This information comes from an official statement by the Ministry of External Affairs.

During his visit from September 22-30, Jaishankar will in keeping with India’s support for the Global South host a special event ‘India-UN for Global South: Delivering for Development’.

A number of bilateral and multilateral meetings will also be attended by him. EAM, during which he will also meet with Dennis Francis, the president of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly, and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The external affairs minister will travel to Washington, DC, from September 27–30 for bilateral meetings with US counterparts after completing engagements related to the 78th UNGA.

Discussions with his counterpart, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, senior US government officials, prominent US business figures, and think tanks are all on his agenda. Additionally, Jaishankar will speak at the 4th World Culture Festival, which is being put on by the Art of Living.