UNGA President Philemon Yang Calls for Ceasefire and Hostage Release
In New York, United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) President Philemon Yang met with families of hostages held by the Hamas group. He emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire to alleviate civilian suffering. Yang shared images from the meeting and reiterated UNGA’s demand for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.
Yang stated, “Today I met with some of the family members of those who are still held hostage by Hamas. I reiterate the strong demand of #UNGA for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and an immediate ceasefire. The suffering of civilians must end, and it must end now.”
Escalating Conflict in Lebanon
The Israeli army warned of strikes in Dahiyeh, a suburb of Beirut, with at least four strikes reported. The extent of the damage is still unknown. Israel targeted Hezbollah intelligence quarters, and a village in the Baalbek region was also hit, with flames visible for hours.
Amid these attacks, at least 36 people were killed and 150 wounded across Lebanon, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry. The Israeli military reported that Hezbollah fired 180 rockets into Israeli territory, including over 80 rockets at Haifa. Hezbollah’s deputy leader, Naim Qassem, stated that their military capabilities remain intact.
The conflict began a year ago on October 7, when Hamas launched a significant attack against Israel.
Doubts Revealed
UNGA -: UNGA stands for the United Nations General Assembly. It is a big meeting where countries from all over the world come together to talk about important issues.
Philemon Yang -: Philemon Yang is a person who is currently the President of the United Nations General Assembly. He helps lead discussions and make decisions on global matters.
Ceasefire -: A ceasefire is when fighting stops temporarily between groups or countries. It is like a time-out in a game, but for wars, to help people talk and find peace.
Hostage -: A hostage is someone who is taken and held by force by another group. The group holding them might want something in return for letting them go.
Hamas -: Hamas is a group that is involved in the conflict with Israel. They have been fighting for control and rights in the region.
Israeli army -: The Israeli army is the military force of Israel. They protect the country and sometimes engage in conflicts with other groups or countries.
Beirut’s Dahiyeh suburb -: Dahiyeh is a neighborhood in Beirut, which is the capital city of Lebanon. It is known for being a stronghold of Hezbollah.
Hezbollah -: Hezbollah is a group in Lebanon that has its own military forces. They are involved in the conflict with Israel and have been firing rockets.
Rockets -: Rockets are weapons that are launched into the air and can cause damage when they land. In conflicts, they are often used to attack targets from a distance.
