NEW YORK: The United Nations Security Council is expected to convene an open briefing this evening to discuss the situation in the Middle East, including the issue of Palestine.

Algeria, the sole Arab member of the UNSC, has requested the meeting to discuss the threat of forced displacement facing the Palestinian people in Gaza as a result of the brutal Israeli genocide campaign in the enclave.

Expected to provide briefings to council members are Martin Griffiths, the Deputy Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, and Ilze Brands Kehris, the Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights.

The council previously held closed consultations on Wednesday, responding to a request from Malta, to discuss the implementation of Resolution 2712 issued last November. The resolution calls for a temporary halt and urgent, extended humanitarian corridors throughout Gaza to facilitate the provision of essential goods and services.

Source: Palestine news & Information Agency – WAFA

In the opening of the Cabinet session on Friday, Caretaker Prime Minister, Najib Mikati, expressed his hopes for the new year, wishing prosperity and peace for all the Lebanese and Cabinet members.

The Premier emphasized the importance of unity to save the country and highlighted ongoing efforts to elect a new president, stating that criticisms regarding the government assuming the role of the president are unfounded.

Addressing the Israeli aggression in southern Lebanon and Gaza, Mikati noted diplomatic efforts, welcoming recent international recognition of Lebanon’s perspective based on resolutions dating back to 1949 and UN Resolution 1701. He stressed the need for Israel to comply with international decisions to achieve stability in the region.

Regarding recent cyber incidents at Beirut Airport, Mikati commended the Transportation Minister’s efforts in investigating the breach and urged ministers to ensure the security of their respective ministries’ computer systems.

While financial incentives for t
he public sector were on the agenda, Mikati decided to postpone the discussion due to serious concerns about the gap between military, security, and administrative personnel. The issue will be revisited in the next Cabinet session, with retroactive financial incentives effective from last December 1st.

Source: National News Agency-Lebanon