Greece is appealing to the EU for medical aid to support Lebanese citizens caught in the escalating conflict, as Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis discussed with Lebanon's Foreign Minister in New York. This plea follows intensified Israeli airstrikes on Hezbollah in Lebanon, leading to over 550 deaths and massive displacement. Greece is also advising its citizens to evacuate due to the growing conflict.
Meanwhile, Israel has returned the bodies of 88 Palestinians killed in Gaza, but health officials in Khan Younis are demanding more information on their identities. The International Committee of the Red Cross has been urged to step in, highlighting the families' right to dignified burials. On the same day, Israeli airstrikes in Gaza have claimed at least 14 more lives, and bombings in Lebanon continue to target Hezbollah.
In another tragic development, thirteen bodies believed to be sub-Saharan African migrants have been discovered off Tunisia’s eastern coast, near Salakta and Chebba. Tunisia and Libya remain key spots for migrants risking dangerous Mediterranean crossings to reach Europe. Since the beginning of the year, the region has seen 103 boats capsize and 341 bodies recovered, underlining the severe migrant crisis.
Shifting focus to
Afghanistan, the Taliban government has shown interest in joining the BRICS economic forum, seeking stronger ties with member nations like China and Russia. Although the Taliban lacks official recognition, its economic relations with these BRICS nations have been steadily growing. The next BRICS summit is scheduled for October in Kazan, Russia.
At the UN General Assembly, French President Emmanuel Macron has urged Iran to help defuse the tensions in Lebanon where Israel has been striking Hezbollah. Macron's call to Iran’s President stressed the importance of reducing military escalations and also included a plea for Iran to release three imprisoned French nationals. Additionally, Macron raised concerns over Iran's alleged missile supplies to Russia.
Turning to financial news, Saudi Arabia’s Tadawul All Share Index has enjoyed a rise, closing up by 75.3 points to reach 12,343.72. This boost comes as Saudi AZM for Communication and Information Technology secured a new entertainment project aligned with Vision 2030, aimed at supporting entrepreneurs and businesses. However, the parallel market Nomu saw a slight drop, reflecting the mixed day in the financial markets.