Nadim Koteich, a Shi'ite Lebanese journalist and media figure known for his opposition to Hizbullah, wrote in a recent column in the London-based Al-Sharq Al-Awsat, that this organization is holding Lebanon hostage and is beggaring the country, for instance by preventing it from reaching an agreement with Israel that would enable it to exploit its natural gas resources.
In an interview published August 25, 2021 by the Iranian news outlet Tasnim, Ali Akbar Velayati, a close associate of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and his advisor on intern
Implementation of Security Council resolution 1701 (2006) during the period from 20 February to 18 June 2021 - Report of the Secretary-General (S/2021/650)
Format
I. Introduction
1. The present report provides a comprehensive assessment of the implementation of Security Council resolution 1701 (2006) since my previous report, dated 9 March 2021 (S/2021/240), including on the provisions of resolution 2539 (2020).
Outstanding obligations remain for both parties under resolution 1701 (2006). There was no progress towards a permanent ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel.
A. Situation in the area of operations of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon
2. The situation in the area of operations of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), in particular along the Blue Line, remained tense, exacerbated by developments in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory in May. During this period, rockets were fired from southern Lebanon towards Israel on three oc casions,
BICOM
20th May 2021
The UK media continues to be dominated by the ongoing escalation along the Gaza border.
BBC News reports that a senior Hamas official predicted Israel and the militant group would reach a ceasefire within the next two days.
The Times all report that US President Joe Biden has urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to de-escalate tensions in the Gaza Strip. Netanyahu rejected Bidenâs statement saying that while he âgreatly appreciates the support of the American president,â Israel was âdetermined to continue this operation until its aim is met, to return the calm and security to you, citizens of Israelâ.