US President Trump contradicts Netanyahu's claim that hunger reports in Gaza are exaggerated, warning of "real starvation". The US State Department announces it will deny visas to Palestinian Authority officials. A recent attack resulted in 1,219 deaths, mostly civilians, and the Israeli military has killed at least 60,249 Palestinians, most of them civilians. UN aid agencies report that deaths from starvation have begun, with images of sick children drawing international outrage. The Israeli offensive, nearing its 23rd month, has left Gaza's health ministry reporting a high number of civilian casualties.
UAE Partners with Red Cross for Global Aid Efforts
8.1.25
The UAE remains committed to delivering urgent assistance globally, working closely with regional and international partners like the Red Cross, to ensure aid reaches those in need, reflecting its humanitarian values and leading role in supporting affected populations worldwide.
The UAE played a key role in UN efforts to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, working closely with Malta's Permanent Mission to secure the adoption of Resolution 2712, which calls for urgent humanitarian pauses and corridors. The UAE also submitted Resolution 2720, emphasizing the need for increased humanitarian aid and safeguarding UN employees' lives. In May 2024, it welcomed the International Court of Justice's decision to impose provisional measures on Israel, demanding an immediate halt to military operations in Rafah governorate. The UAE participated in several high-level meetings, including the European Union Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Brussels, the Cairo Ministerial Conference for Emergency Humanitarian Response to Gaza, and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation's extraordinary meeting in Saudi Arabia, reaffirming its commitment to humanitarian support and a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.
UK to Recognize Palestine Despite Hamas Hostage Crisis
8.1.25
The UK will recognize Palestine as a state next month, with or without Hamas releasing its remaining Israeli hostages, according to Sir Keir Starmer. The decision has sparked backlash and warnings of potential international law breaches. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the move, calling it a reward for "Hamas's monstrous terrorism".
UN Demands Gaza Border Crossings Reopen Immediately
8.1.25
The United Nations and aid organizations are urging a two-step solution to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where millions of people are struggling with food and medicine shortages. The UN's role in coordinating relief efforts has been suspended due to the conflict, leaving many aid shipments stuck at border crossings. To address the crisis, the UN is calling for the immediate reopening of these crossings and the restoration of its presence on the ground, allowing for a more efficient distribution of essential supplies to those in need, particularly in densely populated areas such as Gaza City and refugee camps like Al-Shuja'iya.
The US has reduced tariffs on Bangladeshi goods from 30% to 20% following negotiations between a Bangladesh delegation and US officials in Washington D.C., marking a significant development in trade relations between the two countries.
The US has imposed tariffs on Cambodian and Laotian goods, sparking tensions in Southeast Asia, but later reduced the rate to 19% after diplomatic efforts by Malaysia and Thailand. The move levels the playing field for regional economies worth over $3.8 trillion, which have been heavily reliant on exports and manufacturing. Countries like Vietnam had faced a 20% tariff earlier, prompting them to offer concessions and secure deals with the US. The tariffs are part of a broader trade dispute between the US and several Southeast Asian countries, including Thailand and Vietnam, with concerns about non-tariff barriers and rules of origin still needing to be addressed.
US envoy Steve Witkoff visited a Gaza aid site where hundreds of starving Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces, according to the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. At least 1,373 Palestinians have lost their lives while seeking food, with 859 deaths occurring near the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation and 514 along food convoy routes.
US Expresses Concern Over India's Russian Oil Imports
8.1.25
The US has expressed concern over India's increasing reliance on Russian oil imports, with US diplomat Atul Keshap urging both countries to calmly negotiate a trade deal that benefits both nations. The US imposed 25% tariffs on India in response, citing concerns about the country's purchases of Russian oil. Despite this, Keshap emphasized the importance of a $500 billion annual trade target and called for collective action from both nations to forge a mutually beneficial agreement.