AMN/ WEB DESK
The conflict in the West Asia has intensified dramatically as Hezbollah unleashed its most substantial rocket barrage to date on the Israeli city of Haifa. The aggressive move comes with the militant group’s leadership pledging to maintain its offensive against Israel. In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israeli forces have eliminated potential successors to former Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, though he did not disclose their identities. Meanwhile, UN Secretary-General António Guterres has highlighted the critical role of the UN Palestine refugee agency (UNRWA) in the region.
Speaking to journalists, Guterres emphasized that UNRWA is “more than ever indispensable” and “irreplaceable.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has responded to the intensifying situation by calling for an immediate ceasefire in both Gaza and Lebanon. Guterres warned that the region is at risk of descending into all-out war if hostilities are not halted. In addition the Secretary-General has also expressed profound concern over two bills currently before the Israeli parliament that could severely impact the operations of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). Guterres emphasised the critical role of UNRWA in providing essential aid to Palestinians, particularly during the past year of conflict in Gaza. He has personally written to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to voice his apprehension about the proposed legislation.
The conflict has now spread beyond Lebanon and Israel, with reports emerging from Syria of an Israeli strike on a residential building in Damascus. According to Syrian state media, the attack has resulted in injuries, though the full extent of the damage remains unclear.
In response to the growing humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, Qatar has initiated an “air bridge” to transport medical supplies and food aid to Lebanon. Qatari Minister of State for International Cooperation Lolwah Al-Khater announced the launch of the aid operation from a public hospital in Beirut, highlighting the urgent need for assistance in the region.
Similarly, the UAE has launched a nationwide campaign titled “The UAE Stands with Lebanon” to mobilize support for the Lebanese people. The campaign, set to run till 21st of this month, aims to coordinate aid distribution with international partners like the WHO, UNICEF, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.