September 19, 2024

*) UN demands Israel must end 'unlawful' presence in Palestine within a year The United Nations General Assembly has passed a resolution demanding Israel end its "unlawful presence" in the Occupied Palestinian Territory within 12 months. The resolution received 124 votes in favour, with 43 abstentions and 14 countries, including Israel and the US, voting against it. It comes just before world leaders gather in New York for the UN General Assembly, where Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas are both expected to speak. The resolution also calls for a halt in arms transfers to Israel that could be used in the occupied territories. *) Second wave of explosions hits Lebanon At least 20 people were killed and 450 injured when thousands of two-way personal radios used by Hezbollah members in Lebanon exploded in a second wave of intelligence operation that started on Tuesday with the explosions of pager devices. The latest deaths and injuries brought the toll from the two days of blasts to 32 dead, including at least two children, and more than 3,000 injured. *) US urges Israel, Hezbollah to 'keep us from moving into another conflict' US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield has called for calm between Israel and Hezbollah following deadly attacks in Lebanon. Thomas-Greenfield emphasised the need for de-escalation to prevent the conflict from spreading, while the US continues to seek resolutions for Israel's ongoing war in Gaza and calls for the release of hostages. *) Cameroon dam release raises flood fears in Nigeria — link Nigeria is facing a flood threat as neighbouring Cameroon starts releasing water from its Lagdo dam. It comes after heavy rains in the region, already causing flooding in Borno state. Eleven Nigerian states are at risk, including key agricultural areas. Authorities are urging vigilance and preparedness to minimize potential damage. *) Fed cuts rates sharply The Federal Reserve made a significant move yesterday, slashing interest rates by half a percentage point. This is the first rate cut since the pandemic, aiming to ease inflation and support the economy. The decision will likely lower borrowing costs for consumers and businesses, impacting everything from mortgages to credit cards.