© VPP/M. Al-Hinnawi Gaza’s population now lives on about a third of the strip’s territory. Top news of the day | environment: peacekeeping, Middle East, Pakistan, China and Nepal UN
The main news of the day in the UN and in the world: the head of the UN presented a report on the future of peacekeeping, the Security Council discussed the situation in the Middle East, UNICEF called for tightening fire safety standards in Pakistan after the death of newborns in a hospital, UN agencies are launching relief operations for victims after severe floods in Nepal and China.
Report on the future of peacekeeping
UN Chief Antonio Guterres presented a report to the General Assembly on a review of the approach to UN peacekeeping operations. The preparation of the report was provided for by the Pact for the Future. It draws on consultations with countries, UN peacekeeping and special political missions, regional partners and civil society. The report, in particular, calls for greater emphasis on preventive diplomacy, strengthening partnerships with host countries, and ensuring flexibility and responsiveness in peacekeeping missions.
Middle East
Acting Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Ramiz Alakbarov spoke at the Security Council and noted that although negotiations on the implementation of the Comprehensive Plan to End the Conflict in Gaza and the corresponding Security Council resolution continue, the situation remains unstable. About two-thirds of the sector remains inaccessible, with populations in overcrowded and unsafe areas. Alakbarov called for urgent action to remove obstacles hampering humanitarian action, including problems with access, supply and funding.
Newborn deaths in Pakistan
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) mourns the tragic death of 14 newborns in a fire, occurred in the maternity ward of the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences in Islamabad. The foundation expressed condolences to the families of the victims and everyone affected by this tragedy. UNICEF calls for an urgent review and strengthening of fire safety standards in health care facilities.
Floods in China and Nepal
Severe floods in China and Nepal have caused widespread destruction and the deaths of dozens of people. Hundreds of people are listed as missing. This was reported on Wednesday by UN agencies, which are now launching operations to provide emergency assistance to the victims. World Health Organization staff have already delivered medical kits for about 10 thousand people, as well as tents, to the affected areas in Nepal. The World Food Program (WFP) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) will join the operations tomorrow.