Israel declared UN Secretary-General António Guterres “persona non grata” for not condemning Iran’s October 1 attacks. Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz accused Guterres of bias and support for terrorist groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran. Guterres had previously stated that Hamas’ October 7 attacks didn’t occur in a vacuum, citing 56 years of Palestinian occupation as context.
Biden opposes Israel’s retaliatory strikes on Iran: ‘Attack should be proportional’
President Biden opposed Israel’s potential retaliatory strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites but supported a proportional response to Iran’s October 1 missile attack. The U.S. plans new sanctions against Iran, and National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan warned of severe consequences. Israel is considering targeting Iran’s strategic infrastructure or nuclear sites, with PM Netanyahu holding a security meeting amid concerns of escalating the conflict.
EU commissioner invites Indian investors to buy Euro bonds, optimistic on FTA
EU Budget Commissioner Johannes Hahn is in India encouraging Indian investors to invest in Eurobonds, highlighting their safety, sustainability, and AAA rating. He also promoted EU Green Bonds, which fund environmentally friendly projects, noting €65 billion already issued. Hahn is meeting top Indian officials and discussed the India-EU FTA and the situation in West Asia during his visit to Delhi and Mumbai.
Russia seizes key eastern Ukrainian town, exposing Kyiv’s vulnerabilities
Russia has captured the strategic eastern Ukrainian town of Vuhledar after months of resistance, highlighting Kyiv’s growing challenges. Ukrainian forces withdrew to avoid encirclement, as Russia continues its push to control the Donbas region. Vuhledar, although not a key transport hub, held strategic importance at the junction of Ukraine’s eastern and southern fronts, threatening Russian-controlled Mariupol.
Mexico’s first female president declares, ‘It’s time for women
The ceremonial passing of the presidential sash in Mexico took on historic significance as Claudia Sheinbaum became the first woman to assume the presidency. Celebrated by chants of “Presidenta!”, she acknowledged her predecessor, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, as a pivotal figure in modern Mexican history. She emphasized women’s role in shaping the nation’s future and outlined her agenda, crediting “Mexican humanism” for progress in poverty reduction and employment. While Sheinbaum’s supporters praised her vision, critics are likely to challenge her optimistic portrayal of the economy.
