Author: Shaheryar Mirza
The 79th United Nations General Assembly: Leaders Address Impunity and Conflict United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres began the 79th United Nations General Assembly with a warning about the erosion of the rules-based order and the rise of impunity in the world. He specifically highlighted the wars in Gaza, Sudan, and Ukraine, citing violations of international law and the United Nations Charter. Guterres condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza and called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and a two-state solution. Leaders like US President Joe Biden, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Jordan’s King Abdullah II, Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim…
Germany has halted new licences for the export of “weapons of war” to Israel amid legal challenges, as reported exclusively by Reuters. In 2024, only $36,150 worth of such licences were issued, marking a significant decline from previous years. Legal cases alleging violations of humanitarian law have prompted Germany to pause approvals for arms exports to Israel. A lawsuit at the International Court of Justice and another from the European Center for Constitutional and Human Rights are currently ongoing. Nicaragua also lodged a formal application at the ICJ, accusing Germany of complicity in the genocide of Palestinians in Gaza. This…
The escalating tensions in the Middle East: A dangerous game of brinkmanship The recent assassination of Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran has raised concerns about a potential wider conflict involving Iran, the US, and their allies in the region. While Israel aims to draw Iran into a war, Tehran is expected to respond cautiously to avoid further escalation. The killing of Haniyeh, along with the earlier strike on Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Lebanon, indicates a dangerous shift in the dynamics of the region. Israel’s attempts to push Iran into open conflict have far-reaching implications. Despite these provocations,…