Saudi Minister Stresses Sustainability at World Tourism Day; Global Protests and Conflicts Escalate in Middle East.
Saudi Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb addressed the challenges facing the tourism sector, including sustainability and overtourism, at the World Tourism Day event in Tbilisi, Georgia. He emphasized the importance of sustainability, noting that tourism's contribution to Saudi Arabia's economy increased from 3% in 2019 to 5%, aiming for 10% by 2030.
Meanwhile, in Tehran and other cities, thousands of Iranians rallied against Israeli actions in the Middle East, condemning attacks on Lebanon and Gaza and supporting Hezbollah. These protests came amid escalating violence following a Hamas attack on Israel, leading to significant casualties.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended Israel's military actions at the UN General Assembly, countering accusations and criticizing Iran for regional instability. He emphasized Israel's right to self-defense, noting the significant casualties resulting from the ongoing conflict.
In response to the violence between Israel and Hezbollah, UNICEF condemned the escalating conflict, highlighting the deaths of around 700 people, including 50 children, due to Israeli bombardments in Lebanon. The agency called for an end to hostilities, especially given the alarming rate at which children are being affected.
The conflict is not isolated to the Middle East; in Sudan, the Rapid Support Forces attacked a market in El-Fasher, killing 18 and injuring dozens. This violence has led to global appeals for a ceasefire, including calls from US President
Joe Biden and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
Back in Lebanon, the situation continues to worsen with over 700 deaths and nearly 6,000 injuries reported since Monday due to Israeli attacks. Lebanon's health system is in crisis, with 37 hospitals closed and critical shortages of medical supplies, illustrating the severe impact of the ongoing conflict.