United Nations

The 79th session of the UN General Assembly opened in New York with Palestine seated among member states despite not being a full member. This move follows a resolution granting Palestine additional rights while maintaining observer status. The session aims to tackle global issues including conflicts in Gaza, Haiti, and Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the UN Security Council, dismissing peace talks with Russia and urging global action to end the invasion. He insisted that Russia must be compelled into peace. The session saw strong backing for Ukraine's sovereignty from UN officials, while US Secretary of State Antony Blinken accused China, Iran, and North Korea of aiding Russia.

At the United Nations, Meryl Streep emphasized the severe restrictions on Afghan women's freedoms under Taliban rule, comparing their situation to that of a female cat. She urged global leaders to prioritize the rights and inclusion of Afghan women and girls in society, highlighting how these restrictions prevent Afghanistan from progressing globally.

Israel's airstrikes on southern Lebanon resulted in nearly 500 deaths and 1,650 injuries, mainly targeting Hezbollah members. This escalation follows an incident involving Hezbollah's communication devices. The US calls for restraint and prepares for potential evacuations. Cross-border rocket fire has intensified since last October's conflict with Hamas.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, at the UN General Assembly, accused Israel of inciting a broader Middle East conflict by targeting Iran and Hezbollah. He highlighted Iran's desire for peace and condemned global silence on Israel's actions in Gaza. Pezeshkian also suggested possible retaliation for Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh’s assassination, blaming Israel.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke at the United Nations’ Summit of the Future, stressing collective strength over conflict and a human-centric approach. He highlighted India's achievements in poverty alleviation and called for global unity and institutional reforms. PM Modi also met with industry leaders in the US to discuss India's potential as a global business partner.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with the Indian community in New York after attending the Quad Summit hosted by President Joe Biden. His visit includes participation in the United Nations' Summit of the Future and key bilateral meetings. The Indian community welcomed him enthusiastically, chanting slogans and waving flags to show their support.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has landed in New York to attend the UN Summit of the Future. He will chair important bilateral meetings and engage with the Indian community. His visit comes after attending the Quad Leaders' Summit hosted by President Biden, featuring leaders from Japan and Australia, marking a significant diplomatic engagement.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the Indian diaspora in the USA for their achievements across diverse sectors during his visit to Delaware. Community members welcomed him enthusiastically. His US trip agenda includes participating in the Quad Summit with global leaders and addressing the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

Thich Nhat Hanh highlights how human activities like livestock farming and deforestation contribute to climate change and species extinction, potentially leading to our own downfall. The article delves into environmental ethics, questioning humanity's worthiness of survival, and mentions the Voluntary Human Extinction Movement's call for halting reproduction to protect Earth's ecosystems.

The Kremlin states it has recaptured Uspenovka and Borki in Kursk, although this remains unverified. Russia highlights its counter-offensive success, while Ukraine seeks UN and ICRC help for humanitarian efforts. President Zelenskyy denounces political violence after an alleged assassination attempt on Donald Trump. Kyiv claims to have intercepted most Russian drones overnight.

Pradyot Kishore Debbarman, founder of TIPRA Motha, urged India to take up Bangladesh's minority protection issues with the United Nations. He criticized the current administration for failing to safeguard Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians. Pradyot announced a peace rally in Agartala and suggested international actions against Bangladesh if violence continues.

The International Day of Democracy is observed every September 15 to promote global democratic governance. This year, the United Nations emphasizes Artificial Intelligence as a tool for good governance. The day urges governments to consider citizens' needs and uphold human rights, freedom, and equality.

Israeli airstrikes in Gaza have led to the deaths of at least 14 individuals, including women and children. These attacks coincide with a polio vaccination campaign for children. Additionally, the body of Turkish-American activist Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, killed by an Israeli soldier, has been returned to Turkiye for her funeral.

Turkey is investigating the killing of a US-Turkish activist during a protest in West Bank, the justice minister said Thursday, adding that Ankara would press the UN to take immediate action. "Turkey has opened an investigation," Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc said.

For the first time, over half of people globally enjoy some form of social benefits, the UN said Thursday, but said more was needed, including to soften the impact of climate change. "These gaps are especially significant, given the potential role of social protection in softening the impact of climate change, helping people and societies adapt to a new climate-volatile reality, and facilitating a just transition to a sustainable future," ILO said.

Prince Harry will mark his 40th birthday on September 15 by spending a weekend trip with close friends, as Meghan Markle stays in California with their children. Reports indicate Harry is feeling disillusioned with life in the US and reconnecting with old UK friends. He remains active in philanthropic endeavors.

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant offered his support for a hostage release agreement in the first phase of a Gaza truce deal, saying it would give Israel a "strategic opportunity" to address other security challenges. "Achieving an agreement is also a strategic opportunity that gives us a high chance to change the security situation on all fronts," he said.