A UN peacekeeper inspects the buffer zone in Cyprus. Top news of the day | Monday: Middle East, Iran, Cyprus, Ukraine UN
The main news of the day in the UN and in the world: statement by the UN Secretary General on the Middle East conflict, UN humanitarian efforts in Iran, incident in the buffer zone in Cyprus, visit of the Secretary General’s special representative on children and armed conflict to Kiev.
Position of the UN Secretary General on the Middle East conflict
The UN Secretary-General said that despite the lack of an agreement, the US-Iran talks in Islamabad were a “positive and meaningful step” towards resuming dialogue. Antonio Guterres called for continued constructive contacts, emphasizing that when there are deep differences, agreements are not reached quickly. The Secretary General thanked the mediators – Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Turkey – and called on the international community to support their efforts. The UN continues to work on a mechanism to ensure the safety of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. The Secretary General’s Special Envoy Jean Arnault is holding consultations with key parties in the region.
UN Humanitarian Efforts in Iran
UN humanitarian agencies continue to support the efforts of the Iranian government as the needs of the country’s population grow. UNICEF is strengthening psychosocial support for children and families and helping to restore access to basic health services. Mobile medical teams have been deployed, primary care tents and more than 80 emergency medical kits have been delivered, which makes it possible to cover over 225 thousand people. The World Food Program provided food and cash assistance to 33.5 thousand refugees.
Incident in Cyprus
UN peacekeepers in Cyprus increased patrols in the Pyla area after the unauthorized entry of Turkish Cypriot security forces into the buffer zone. The mission emphasized that any such actions violate its mandate and threaten stability. The UN is working with all parties to restore the status quo and prevent further escalation. Maintaining calm in the buffer zone remains the mission’s priority.
Visit of the Secretary General’s Special Representative to Kyiv
The Secretary General’s Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict Vanessa Fraser is on a visit to Ukraine. She meets with government, civil society and the UN system to discuss the protection of children affected by conflict and new opportunities for cooperation. Fraser will also engage with civil society organizations, representatives of the UN system and other stakeholders.