Reforms and Funding Cuts at the U.N.'s Department of Global Communications

Israel's ambassador to the United Nations discussed potential reforms and funding cuts to the U.N.'s Department of Global Communications in response to Iran's missile attacks. The U.S. has halted funding to various U.N. organizations and expressed concerns over anti-American and anti-Israel messaging in U.N. communications.

Russia's Invasion of Ukraine

The roots of Russia's invasion of Ukraine go back decades and run deep. The conflict is seen as a shift in the world order. The U.N. General Assembly rejected a U.S.-backed resolution and approved a European-backed Ukrainian resolution demanding Russia to withdraw its forces. The Trump administration's actions and statements have caused tensions with Ukraine and European leaders.

Increase in Executions in Iran

The number of executions in Iran rose to 901 last year, including 31 women, with most being drug-related offenses. Some women executed were convicted of murder after being forced into marriage or to fend off rape. The increase in executions is deeply disturbing, according to the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights.

Israeli Airstrikes in Syria After Assad's Fall

Israel carried out intense airstrikes into Syria following the fall of Bashar Assad's government. Israeli forces advanced into Syria, targeting strategic weapons stockpiles and destroying Syria's navy. Israel aims to establish a demilitarized zone in southern Syria to prevent terrorism. Syrian opposition fighters have taken control, leading to a new transitional cabinet under Mohammed al-Bashir. Life in Damascus is slowly returning to normal, with banks and shops reopening. Israel's incursion has been condemned by Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, and U.N. has called for upholding the 1974 disengagement agreement.

Espionage Trial of Wall Street Journal Reporter Evan Gershkovich in Russia

American Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich is facing an espionage trial in Russia based on dubious charges. The U.N. has called for his immediate release, citing lack of evidence and condemning Russia's inhumane treatment.

Israeli Prime Minister's Key Rival Resigns from War Cabinet

Benny Gantz resigns from Israeli war Cabinet after postwar plan for Gaza fails to materialize, citing Netanyahu as obstacle to victory. Global condemnation of civilian death toll in Gaza war. Gantz calls for elections and criticizes Netanyahu for lack of plan. Netanyahu faces further isolation and relies on far-right support. U.N. orders Israel to halt offensive in Rafah. International Criminal Court seeks arrest warrants for Netanyahu and Hamas leaders. Netanyahu claims Israeli military is the most moral army in the world. Far-right members threaten to dissolve government if Netanyahu agrees to proposal.

U.N. Treaty on Genetic Resources and Traditional Knowledge

A new treaty by U.N. member countries aims to protect traditional knowledge about genetic resources from indigenous cultures. The agreement requires patent applicants to specify the origin of ideas used in their products. It will take effect as international law after 15 countries adopt it.

U.N.'s new breakdown of Gaza death toll

The U.N. changed how it reports the death toll in Gaza to include breakdowns by gender and age, causing confusion and anger among Israeli officials. The overall death toll remains at 35,000, with 14,500 children and 9,500 women previously reported as killed. Israeli forces continue to push deeper into Rafah, causing mass displacement and destruction.

Climate Crisis

Climate experts warn that the world is on the brink of a climate catastrophe, with global heating expected to exceed the 1.5C target. The U.N. Secretary-General calls for urgent action to prevent disaster.

Implications of Palestinian Recognition on U.S. Funding to the United Nations

The U.S. may consider defunding the United Nations if the Palestinians gain official recognition through a workaround, in violation of U.S. law. Experts warn of the implications of such a move on U.S. funding to the U.N.

Protests at Columbia University and U.S. Universities Amidst Israel-Hamas Conflict

New York police remove occupying protesters from Columbia University's Hamilton Hall after nearly 24 hours. U.N. rights chief criticizes treatment of pro-Palestinian protesters at U.S. universities. American universities take stronger measures to clamp down on protests amidst the Israel-Hamas conflict.

France and Germany urge citizens to depart Iran amid increased risk of military escalation in the Middle East

France and Germany urge citizens to depart Iran amid increased risk of military escalation in the Middle East. U.N. Secretary-General condemns Iran's attack on Israel and calls for immediate cessation of hostilities. Pope Francis pleads for halt to actions that could fuel violence in the Middle East.

Palestinian Statehood and U.N. Negotiations

The State Department opposes the Palestinian effort to negotiate statehood at the United Nations, preferring direct negotiations with Israel for a two-state solution. The Biden administration abstained from voting on a UNSC resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, angering the Israeli government.

Israel-Gaza Conflict Coverage

Coverage of the conflict between Israel and Gaza, including perspectives from a U.N. spokesperson and an Israeli government minister.

Pro-Palestinian Protests and Genocide Allegations in Gaza

Pro-Palestinian protesters interrupt Biden, he acknowledges 'they have a point'. Francesca Albanese states at the U.N. that the threshold for genocide against Palestinians in Gaza has been met.

Ceasefire Negotiations between Israel and Hamas

Israel believes chances of ceasefire deal with Hamas are 50/50, awaiting Hamas response to proposal. Growing international consensus for ceasefire. U.N. Secretary-General warns of humanitarian disaster if Rafah is assaulted.

Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

Prominent aid organizations criticize Biden administration's plan to construct temporary pier in Gaza as ineffective, call for sustained ceasefire and lifting of Israel's siege on Gaza. U.N. report highlights record growth of Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories, deeming it a war crime. Aid packages dropped from aircraft result in deaths in Gaza. International community announces intent to open maritime corridor for humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Israel's Disappointment with U.N. Response to Hamas' Sexual Violence Acts

Israel expresses disappointment with the U.N. for not condemning Hamas' sexual violence acts and calls for action to be taken against the group and its supporters.

Humanitarian Crisis in Rafah

Displaced Gazans in Rafah are queuing for hours for bread amid a worsening humanitarian crisis. U.N. officials warn that an assault on Rafah would be catastrophic.

U.N. Security Council's Demands to Taliban Regarding Women's Rights in Afghanistan

More than two-thirds of the U.N. Security Council's members demanded that the Taliban rescind oppressive policies against women and girls, including banning girls' education above sixth grade and women's rights to work and move freely. The Taliban have not been recognized by any country, and international recognition remains 'nearly impossible' unless they lift restrictions on women.