Iran Appeals to UN to Prevent Middle East Tensions Following Missile Strike on Israel; US and UK Reaffirm Support for Israel
Iran has urged the UN Security Council to take action to prevent further Middle East tensions following its missile attack on Israel, which came in retaliation for Israeli actions in Gaza and Lebanon. Tehran insists the attack targeted only military facilities, emphasizing it does not seek war but must defend its interests. This plea by Iran's President follows the deaths of key figures in Hezbollah and the Revolutionary Guards in Beirut.
Meanwhile, Tunisia faces criticism from the UN for its crackdown on migrant rights activists amidst a broader campaign against NGOs. UN special rapporteur Mary Lawlor condemned the arrests of Tunisian Refugee Council members Abderrazek Krimi and Mustafa Djemali, calling their detention a violation of international human rights conventions. These actions are part of President Kais Saied's broader campaign targeting NGOs that aid sub-Saharan migrants.
On the international stage, US Vice President Kamala Harris has labeled Iran a "dangerous" force and reaffirmed US support for Israel amid escalating tensions. Her remarks followed Iran's recent ballistic missile attack on Israel, which the US deemed ineffective. Harris voiced support for President
Joe Biden's directive to intercept Iranian missiles and committed to continued collaboration with allies to counter Iran.
In response to these events, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has also reaffirmed commitment to Israel's security in the wake of Iran's missile attack. Starmer condemned Iran's actions and called for de-escalation during talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Jordan's King Abdullah. The discussions highlighted the urgent need for a ceasefire in Lebanon and Gaza.
Back in the Pacific, Australian police are attempting to ban a pro-Palestine rally in Sydney, citing safety concerns. The rally, scheduled to mark one year since Israel's war in Gaza, has sparked controversy with many seeing it as an infringement on democratic rights. This move comes amid heightened tensions following recent escalations in the Middle East.
Finally, in Brazil, a judge has unblocked
Elon Musk’s social media platform X’s bank accounts after a $5 million settlement. Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes' decision lifts the suspension of X in Brazil, which had been in place due to a dispute over disinformation and non-compliance with court orders. The platform, popular with over 22 million users, is now set to resume operations under court conditions.