Allegations of UN Involvement in Holding Hostages in Gaza

The United Nations' top humanitarian aid official denies evidence of UN involvement in holding of hostages in Gaza. Former Hamas hostages claim they were held in U.N. facilities. Israel calls for investigation into U.N. complicity in terrorism. U.N. Office of Oversight Services found evidence of U.N. workers' involvement in attacks.

Left-wing Pop Star Lizzo's Comments on Elon Musk and Political Theater

Left-wing pop star Lizzo claims Elon Musk's support for US withdrawal from NATO and the UN vindicates warnings about Trump starting WWIII. Lizzo criticizes political theater and advocates for body positivity despite weight loss.

US Withdrawal from NATO and UN

Elon Musk endorsed calls for the US to withdraw from NATO and the United Nations after months of criticism towards both organizations, citing concerns over disproportionate contributions and lack of support from allies.

Former Hamas hostage Noa Argamani's U.N. briefing and Fox News' coverage of antisemitism

Former Hamas hostage Noa Argamani speaks about her harrowing experience in Hamas captivity at the U.N. Security Council, while Fox News covers stories on rising anti-Jewish prejudice across the U.S. and the world.

Israeli U.N. Ambassador's Demand for U.N. Resolution Condemning Hamas

Israeli U.N. Ambassador calls on the international body to condemn Hamas for their atrocities, following the release of hostages and return of bodies, amid ongoing Israel-Hamas war.

Israeli Hostages Murdered by Hamas

Four Israeli hostages, including a mother and her two young sons, were murdered by Hamas and their bodies put on display in a ceremony condemned by many. The UN criticized the treatment of the deceased, but some felt their response was inadequate. The release of the hostages and the condemnation of Israel by the UN have raised concerns about bias and priorities within the organization.

UN Suspends Humanitarian Operations in Yemen's Houthi Stronghold

UN suspends humanitarian operations in Yemen's Houthi stronghold due to detainment of U.N. staffers by rebels, affecting response to humanitarian crisis. War in Yemen has led to over 150,000 deaths and millions in need of assistance.

Kidnapping of U.N. Staff by Houthi Insurgents in Yemen

The United Nations announced a temporary pause in humanitarian work in the Saada region of Yemen after Houthi insurgents kidnapped more staffers. One employee of the U.N. World Food Program reportedly died in Houthi captivity. The Houthis, an Iran-backed insurgency, created a humanitarian crisis in Yemen. President Biden revoked the Houthis' terrorist designation, which led to continued terrorist activities. The U.N. estimates that 80% of Yemen's population needs assistance due to the crisis.

Mass Rape in DRC Prison Break

At least 165 women were raped by male inmates following a mass breakout from a prison in the Democratic Republic of Congo, amid conflict involving rebel groups and accusations of sexual violence by both Congolese troops and rebel fighters. The situation remains volatile, with fears of health outbreaks and displacement of people.

U.S. Withdrawal from UN Bodies and Iran Policy

President Trump signed executive orders withdrawing the U.S. from the United Nations Human Rights Council, defunding the UNRWA, and ordering a review of U.S. involvement in other UN bodies. He also restored the 'maximum pressure' policy on Iran and threatened obliteration if Iran tried to assassinate him.

Conflict between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)

President Donald Trump acknowledges the conflict between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is a serious problem but refrains from discussing a plan to resolve it. The conflict involves a powerful insurgency called M23 supported by Rwanda, with roots in the 1994 Rwandan genocide. M23 leaders aim to march towards the DRC capital Kinshasa, while the UN expresses concerns over M23 advancing towards Bukavu and committing human rights violations. Rwanda denies interest in annexation or regime change amidst accusations of illegally occupying Congolese territory.

Antisemitism and Political Actions

President Donald Trump orders crackdown on antisemitism on college campuses, including deportation of pro-Hamas activists. Conor McGregor condemns pro-Hamas and pro-Hezbollah demonstrators. Israeli President Isaac Herzog addresses UN about antisemitism.

Rwanda-backed Rebels Seize Goma, Eastern Congo

Gunfire erupted in Goma as Rwanda-backed rebels seized the city, igniting fears of regional war. The rebels ordered government soldiers to surrender and MONUSCO staff evacuated to Rwanda. The crisis sparked a meeting of East African Community heads of state.

Recent News Highlights

President-elect Donald Trump announces more Cabinet picks. U.N. report says a woman or girl was killed every 10 minutes in 2023. Climate conference ends with a deal to help developing countries.

UN Climate Negotiations in Azerbaijan

UN climate negotiations in Azerbaijan are focusing on financing damages from climate change, with developing countries seeking more financial support from wealthier nations. The U.S. position on funding remains uncertain, especially with the change in administration. The impact of Trump's policies and the upcoming pledges to cut emissions are key concerns at the talks.

United States Veto on UN Ceasefire Resolution for Gaza

The United States vetoed a UN Security Council resolution for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza due to the absence of a condition for the release of Israeli hostages. The U.S. was the only 'no' vote among 14 'yes' votes.

Polio vaccination campaign in Gaza

Israel and Hamas agree to three-day pauses in fighting to allow for polio vaccination campaigns for children in Gaza. UN aims to vaccinate 640,000 kids amid global alarm after first polio case in Gaza in 25 years.

U.S. Ambassador's Aid Announcement for Haiti

U.S. ambassador to the U.N. announces additional aid to Haiti during a quick visit to the troubled Caribbean island.

Food aid distribution to Gaza

The U.N. World Food Programme distributed food aid to Gaza's population with the help of the U.S. military after a pause due to security concerns. Aid is being delivered via a floating dock and temporary pier system known as JLOTS. Plans are being made for alternative aid delivery routes.

UN Refugee Agency Criticizes Biden Administration's Asylum Restrictions

The head of the United Nations refugee agency criticizes new asylum restrictions by the Biden administration, warning they may violate international law. The report highlights the increasing number of forced displacements globally, with the U.S. facing significant challenges in handling refugees.

United Nations' World Food Programme Halts Operations at U.S.-Built Pier in Gaza

The United Nations' World Food Programme paused food distribution operations from a U.S.-built pier in Gaza due to safety concerns after the pier was hit by rockets. The U.S. has spent $320 million on the pier to facilitate aid delivery, but chaotic scenes and weather damage have hindered efforts. Aid arrived at the pier, but distribution was paused for a security assessment. Relief agencies are pushing for land routes to reopen for aid delivery to Gaza.

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers killed in booby-trapped tunnel at UNRWA school in Rafah

Three Israeli soldiers were killed by a booby-trapped tunnel in Rafah located in a UNRWA school complex. The IDF responded to an anti-tank missile fired from the school and found large quantities of weapons and underground terror tunnels. Israel criticized UNRWA for supporting terrorism. The Biden administration withheld bombs in protest.

Landslide in Papua New Guinea

A landslide in Papua New Guinea has buried some 670 people in six remote villages, according to the U.N. and Australia's foreign affairs ministry.

Aid Distribution in Gaza

Palestinians swarmed and looted an aid convoy in Gaza, revealing disorganized aid distribution. $350 million spent on pier for aid delivery, but none delivered to Palestinians yet. Crowds prevent access to aid caravans. U.N. considering new aid routes.

Anti-Israel Agitators and Antisemitism

Authorities dismantled an encampment on a Southern California campus. Fox News' 'Antisemitism Exposed' newsletter discusses rising anti-Jewish prejudice. Top story focuses on 'from the river to the sea' phrase being considered hate speech by Facebook oversight board.

United Nations failure to address sexual violence against Israeli hostages by Hamas terrorists

UN criticized for failing to address sexual violence against Israeli hostages by Hamas terrorists, leading to accusations of political bias and lack of action

United Nations revises estimate of Palestinian children killed in Gaza

The United Nations has revised its estimate of Palestinian children killed in Gaza by half, raising questions about the accuracy of figures frequently used to criticize Israel's actions in Gaza.

Revised Child Fatality Figures in Gaza War

The United Nations Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) revised down child and women fatality figures from the Gaza war after attributing the inflated numbers to Hamas-controlled sources. The delay in rectifying the figures has potentially bolstered Hamas's position in the conflict.

Michael Rapaport criticizes Hamas and UN for inflated death statistics in Gaza

Actor Michael Rapaport criticizes Hamas for reporting inflated death statistics for Palestinian women and children in Gaza. UN revised down initial numbers due to lack of verification from Hamas-controlled sources. Israeli Defense Force takes measures to avoid civilian harm during attacks. Rapaport also criticized President Joe Biden for withholding arms shipments to Israel.

UN Court Decision on Germany's Military Aid to Israel

The UN's highest court declined to order Germany to end military aid to Israel due to lack of evidence.

Iraq's Anti-LGBT Law

The United Nations expresses alarm over Iraq's parliament passing a bill criminalizing same-sex relations with sentences of up to 15 years in prison.

Middle East Conflict

Mourners bury victims of Israeli strike in Gaza. Iran warns of harsh response to any invasion by Israel. UN Security Council to vote on Palestinian state membership. Hezbollah attacks Israel, injuring soldiers. Italy willing to contribute troops for UN peacekeeping in Gaza. Germany expresses solidarity with Israel and vows consequences for Iran. Arrow 3 missile defense system successfully intercepts Iranian attack. Human Rights Watch reports Israeli forces involved in settler attacks against Palestinians. UN appeals for $2.8 billion to aid 3 million Palestinians in Gaza.

U.S. Senator Demands U.S. Cancel Iranian Foreign Minister's Visa After Iran's Attack on Israel

Republican senator demands U.S. cancel Iranian Foreign Minister's visa for attending UN Security Council meeting after Iran's attack on Israel. State Department and UN dodge questions on visa. US has authority to restrict movement of diplomats in NY. Iran launched retaliatory strike against Israel. US working to broker ceasefire deal for Gaza.

Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

Former U.N. Humanitarian Coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Jamie McGoldrick, shares his insights on the situation in Gaza since October 7 in an interview with NPR's Scott Simon.

U.S. Politics

Representative Nancy Pelosi and other congressional Democrats urge a halt to weapons transfers to Israel in light of the military assault on Gaza and the worsening humanitarian crisis.

UN Resolution on Intersex Rights

The UN Human Rights Council adopted a resolution to protect the rights of intersex people, a landmark moment for human rights. The resolution aims to combat discrimination and harmful practices against intersex individuals and promote their physical and mental health.

Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

Israel is accused of blocking lifesaving supplies from reaching Gaza, leading to a dire humanitarian crisis and warnings of an imminent famine. Aid agencies blame Israeli officials for restricting the entry of essential items, while Israel denies obstructing aid and points fingers at the U.N. for failing to distribute aid effectively.

Saudi Arabia appointed chair of UN women's rights forum

Saudi Arabia appointed as chair of the United Nations' top forum for women's rights and gender equality, despite its poor record on women's rights. Human rights organizations criticize the decision, highlighting the country's discriminatory practices.

Reparations for Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade

UN Secretary General calls for reparations to compensate for trans-Atlantic slave trade legacy and systemic racism. Various groups and leaders support the idea of financial reparations to address historical injustices.

Imminent Famine in North Gaza

The U.N. warns of imminent famine in north Gaza due to high levels of starvation, despite urgent calls for help and limited aid.

World Happiness Report 2022

Finland remains the world's happiest country for the seventh year in a row, according to the annual UN-sponsored World Happiness Report. Nordic countries like Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden also rank high. Afghanistan, facing a humanitarian crisis, remains at the bottom. The US and Germany are no longer in the top 20 happiest nations. Costa Rica and Kuwait have entered the top 20 for the first time. Happiness rankings are based on life satisfaction, GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom, generosity, and corruption.

Iran's Responsibility in Death of Mahsa Amini and Violent Repression of Protests

Iran is blamed for the death of Mahsa Amini in 2022, leading to massive peaceful protests against the regime. A UN fact-finding mission found Iran guilty of crimes against humanity in its violent repression of protests in 2022 and 2023.

President Biden's Criticism of Israel Regarding Humanitarian Aid in Gaza

President Biden criticized Israel for not allowing more humanitarian aid into Gaza during the war. He announced airdrops of aid and called for an immediate ceasefire. Israel claims the UN is failing to distribute aid properly and that Hamas steals a significant portion of it. A deadly stampede occurred as Palestinians rushed for aid trucks, leading to tensions between Israel and the UN.

Casualties in Gaza City

Hundreds of casualties in Gaza City due to conflict; UN spokesperson blames war for violence.

UN Expert Defends Climate Activists

A United Nations expert defends climate activists who engage in disruptive actions, stating that government leaders should listen to them rather than punish them. The report highlights examples of repression of environmental defenders around the world.

US Pushes for UN Ceasefire Resolution in Response to Israel's Planned Invasion of Rafah, Gaza

The US is pushing for a UN vote on a temporary ceasefire to prevent Israel's planned invasion of Rafah in Gaza. Biden is urging Israel to ensure the safety of civilians in the city and release hostages held by Hamas.