Quick Updates: West Bank violence on the rise, Kosovo needs dialogue, and Afghan activist set free
The UN Middle East envoy has expressed concern about increased levels of violence in the West Bank, UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric told journalists in New York on Monday.
Stability in the West Bank is vital to the prospects of peace in Gaza, UN Special Coordinator Tor Wennesland said over the weekend, warning against further escalation. He also said civilian attacks, including settler violence, need to end.
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Meanwhile, the new Humanitarian Coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Muhannad Hadi, visited Gaza for the first time on Sunday since taking up the post earlier in April.
“He saw firsthand the catastrophic situation in Gaza and how the ongoing hostilities are affecting people,” Mr. Dujarric said.
Mr. Hadi visited sites in Khan Younis and Deir Al-Balah, including a shelter for displaced people and a health centre, and spoke with members of the community.
He also spent the night in Rafah, where 1.4 million people are sheltering in dire living conditions, lacking basic necessities, including water, food, shelter and healthcare.
UN partners were able to provide hot meals, bread and flour to people in Gaza last week, with support from the World Food Programme (WFP).
Further, two emergency medical teams have been positioned in northern Gaza to support Kamal Adwan and Al Awda hospitals.
Good faith dialogue critical to move forward in Kosovo
The UN Special Representative in Kosovo has highlighted the importance of open communication and dialogue in resolving long-standing issues between Belgrade and Pristina and between Kosovo Serb communities and the Pristina authorities.
Caroline Ziadeh, who also heads the UN Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), delivered her biennial briefing to the Security Council in New York on Monday.
“One of the key common observations is dissatisfaction with the level of progress being achieved through political dialogue and the direct effects this has upon the security situation. The level of mistrust unfortunately remains high and must be addressed,” she said.
Ms. Ziadeh reported on recent setbacks that hamper efforts to build trust among Kosovo’s ethnic communities through political dialogue.
She underlined the importance of the full implementation of the European Union-facilitated agreements and for the sides to remain committed to constructive engagement and finding practical compromises.
“Good faith dialogue, communication and mutual understanding mark the path forward. Progress is born from actions undertaken with the willingness to forge compromises,” she said.
Afghanistan: Rights experts call for release of detained activist
Seven independent UN experts are calling for the immediate release of Afghan human rights defender Ahmad Fahim Azimi, who has been detained for more than six months.
Mr. Azimi was imprisoned on 17 October by the de facto authorities along with his colleague Siddiqullah Afghan, who was recently released.
In addition to being a human rights defender, Mr. Azimi advocates for girls’ education and is the head of the Better Thinking Centre and director of the Digital Citizen Lab in Afghanistan.
The experts have been communicating with the Afghan authorities regarding this case.
“We urge the de facto authorities to also release Mr. Azimi without delay. There is no justification for his detention,” they said.
The experts also expressed concern over the arrests of multiple human rights defenders and education activists in Afghanistan, seemingly for their advocacy for women and girls’ education.
“Access to education is a fundamental right. It is essential that those who strive to expand this right are supported and protected, not persecuted,” they said.
The experts were appointed by the UN Human Rights Council to monitor and report on specific country situations or thematic issues.
They serve in their individual capacity, are not UN staff, are independent of any government or organization and are not compensated for their work.
Nora Chambers, an acclaimed journalist with a focus on global affairs and humanitarian issues, has dedicated over twenty years to reporting from conflict zones worldwide. Her work has spotlighted marginalized communities and highlighted urgent international concerns.
The UN Middle East envoy expresses concern about increased levels of violence in the West Bank, emphasizing the critical need for dialogue to resolve conflicts peacefully and ensure stability in the region. It is essential to address civilian attacks and settlement violence to pave the way for peace in Gaza.
How can the UN ensure stability in the West Bank amidst the escalating violence? Are there any concrete plans in place?
The UN is actively working to ensure stability in the West Bank by engaging in dialogue, advocating for de-escalation, and supporting humanitarian efforts on the ground. Concrete plans include coordinating with local authorities, providing aid to affected communities, and facilitating diplomatic negotiations. It’s a complex situation, but ongoing efforts are focused on promoting peace and addressing the root causes of the conflict.
It’s heartbreaking to see the escalating violence in the West Bank. Dialogue and peaceful resolution are crucial in achieving lasting peace in the region. The international community must step up to support efforts for stability and the well-being of the people affected by the conflict.
It’s truly disheartening to see the escalating violence in the West Bank. The need for dialogue and peaceful resolution is more urgent than ever. The international community must step up efforts to ensure stability and security for the people in the region.
It is appalling to hear about the escalating violence in the West Bank. Peace is pivotal for the region, and it’s essential to address these issues urgently.
It’s heartbreaking to see the escalation of violence in the West Bank. The UN’s efforts are crucial for maintaining stability and promoting peace in the region. The visit by the Humanitarian Coordinator sheds light on the dire situation in Gaza and the urgent need for assistance.
It’s concerning to see the escalation of violence in the West Bank. Both sides need to engage in peaceful dialogue to prevent further harm and support the prospects of lasting peace in the region.
Stability in the West Bank is crucial for ensuring peace in Gaza. It’s disheartening to see the escalating violence and attacks on civilians. Dialogue and cooperation are essential to prevent further deterioration of the situation.