UEFA has expelled Czech club Karviná from its competitions due to a match-fixing scandal, leading to Jablonec entering the Europa League. This decision has altered the draw and given a Croatian club a new opponent.
The UN chief, Guterres, has stated that the UNRWA is facing a severe liquidity crisis, jeopardizing its ability to fulfill its mandate and calling for urgent additional funding.
Former Senegal president Macky Sall is positioning himself as a leading candidate for the next U.N. secretary general, vowing to 'Make the UN Great Again' and targeting an international 'deep state'.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for 'the full truth' regarding the climate cost of artificial intelligence and announced an initiative for environmental transparency in the AI sector.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres visited Haiti as gang violence continues to surge, ahead of the deployment of a new international gang-suppression force. Guterres apologized for the international community's failure to address the violence and displacement in the country.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned that the current situation between the US and Iran is not a truce but a 'weaker fire' that carries a significant risk of escalating into a full-blown conflict with catastrophic global consequences.
The UN chief has warned of a 'full resumption of conflict' as the Middle East is pulled 'deeper into crisis,' stressing that the provision of humanitarian aid must never be used as a bargaining chip.
The United Nations has included Israel and Russia on its 'blacklist' for sexual violence in conflict, documenting hundreds of cases in a new report. This decision has been welcomed by Palestine and criticized by Israel, which has broken ties with the UN chief over the report.
Western Europe is experiencing an unprecedented heatwave, with record-breaking temperatures prompting warnings from the UN about climate change. Several cities, particularly in Italy, have issued the highest alert levels due to the extreme heat.
Pakistan's Finance Minister Ishaq Dar and the UN Secretary-General António Guterres met in New York to discuss regional conflicts, UN reform, and Pakistan's diplomatic outreach.
The Court of Appeal in Akure, Ondo State, has ordered all parties to halt any action regarding the Akirun of Ikirun chieftaincy dispute until a pending appeal is determined.
Ogun Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele expressed condolences on the passing of Sheikh Sikirulai Babalola, the Grand Chief Imam of Yewaland, at the age of 98.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated that humanity is paying the price for the ongoing Middle East crisis, urging for a durable and peaceful resolution to the conflict.
The United Nations chief has issued a warning regarding the diminishing influence of the global Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. The article discusses whether the treaty can effectively prevent future disasters amidst current geopolitical challenges.
Shipping traffic in the vital Strait of Hormuz has significantly decreased, with only seven ships passing daily compared to a pre-war average of 140, leading to economic strain in Gulf nations. An Iranian lawmaker stated the military would manage the route, while the UN chief urged a toll-free waterway.
Mali's Defense Minister was reportedly killed in a major offensive by rebels, some linked to al-Qaeda, which also saw a key city captured. This crisis has led to Russian mercenaries withdrawing from the affected city.
Jihadist groups and Tuareg rebels claimed responsibility for a series of large-scale, coordinated attacks on Malian army bases across the country, leading to fresh battles and prompting condemnation from the UN.
Candidates vying for the role of UN Secretary-General are facing questions regarding their vision for the organization, including the need for peace, restoring confidence, and the tradition of geographical rotation. Several hopefuls have outlined their priorities and approaches to global challenges.
The US government and Pentagon have announced the abolition of mandatory flu vaccination for soldiers. This decision reverses a previous policy requiring service members to receive the influenza vaccine.
A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon officially came into effect at midnight, but the Lebanese army quickly accused Israel of multiple violations. Despite the agreement, reports of gunfire and rocket fire emerged shortly after the truce began.
Israel and Lebanon held rare direct talks in Washington, D.C., agreeing to begin negotiations on their disputed land and maritime borders. These discussions mark the first direct engagement between the two nations since 1993.
Σε μια περίοδο έντονων γεωπολιτικών εξελίξεων, ο Πρωθυπουργός Κυριάκος Μητσοτάκης παραχώρησε συνέντευξη στο CNN και τη δημοσιογράφο Κριστιάν Αμανπούρ, όπου τοποθετήθηκε για την εκεχειρία στη Μέση…
UN Secretary-General Guterres has urged restraint, warning that attacks on Iran's civilian infrastructure, as threatened by US President Trump, would violate international law.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that the world is on the brink of a larger war in the Middle East, which would have dramatic global consequences, urging an immediate halt to the conflict.
Three UN peacekeepers have been killed in Lebanon as Israeli strikes continue to pummel the south, prompting the UN chief to condemn attacks on peacekeepers as grave violations of international humanitarian law.
Former Senegalese President Macky Sall will press ahead with his candidacy for the post of United Nations Secretary-General, despite the African Union's refusal to endorse him, with his communication team asserting no resolution is blocking his approach.
Iran has announced it will ease and expedite humanitarian aid passage through the Strait of Hormuz, and its foreign minister confirmed that Indian-flagged vessels and tankers, along with those from other 'friendly nations' like China, Iraq, Pakistan, and Russia, are permitted passage on a case-by-case basis.
The United Nations chief has issued a stark warning, stating that the war in the Middle East is now 'out of control,' highlighting the escalating severity of the conflict.
Former President Trump has reiterated his rejection of a ceasefire with Iran, asserting that Iran desires a deal but fears its own people and the US. Meanwhile, oil prices continue to climb past $100, driven by lingering risks of a prolonged US-Iran war, impacting global powers as Trump and Xi pursue energy dominance, with Europe particularly vulnerable.
The government of José Antonio Kast has officially withdrawn Chile's backing for former President Michelle Bachelet's candidacy to lead the United Nations, deeming her bid 'unviable'. Pundits are now speculating on her chances, believing the winning candidate will likely be a woman from Latin America.
The UN's World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has released its flagship State of the Global Climate report, confirming 2015-2025 as the hottest decade on record and warning of a global climate emergency. The UN chief further emphasized that all climate indicators are 'flashing red' due to record heat trapped by the Earth, with consequences feared to last for thousands of years.
Three Lebanese officials have confirmed that Beirut is forming a delegation for talks with Israel, though no date has been set, as the war with Hezbollah continues to rage and the UN calls for diplomacy.
Israel and Lebanon are reportedly set to hold talks amidst the ongoing war with Hezbollah, which has declared readiness for a prolonged conflict as Israel continues strikes on Lebanon, including the destruction of a key bridge.
A rifle-wielding man, identified as a Lebanese immigrant who lost relatives in an Israeli strike in Lebanon, attacked a Detroit-area synagogue and was killed in a shootout. Police operations were underway following the gunfire exchange.
Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides will meet United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres in Brussels on 18 March on the sidelines of the European Council summit, Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis announced on Thursday. The meeting, which was arranged following a letter from Christodoulides to Guterres, forms part of what Letymbiotis described as the president’s clear and firm […]
U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will travel to Ankara this week for his annual Ramadan solidarity visit, highlighting Türkiye’s humanitarian support and generosity.
The UN chief has appointed James Swan as the new head of MONUSCO, the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The UN chief has expressed strong concern over the increasing global prevalence of the 'rule of force,' highlighting a departure from international law and peaceful resolution.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has criticized the growing prevalence of 'the law of the strongest' globally, stating it leads to widespread attacks on human rights.
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U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday denounced Israel’s decision to designate parts of the occupied West Bank as “state property.”
'The Secretary-General condemns the...
A United Nations official, Vanessa Frazier, is facing criticism and calls for investigation after sharing unverified claims from an anti-Israel activist on social media.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged world leaders and policymakers at the Jeju Forum in South Korea to renew their commitment to multilateralism and the principles of the UN Charter.
Habeeb Whyte, Chairman of the Ogun Youth Assembly, has urged young people to cease fighting for politicians and instead demand meaningful participation and empowerment in governance. He emphasized the importance of youth agency in shaping their future.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stated that the international community has failed Haiti, as the country continues to grapple with deepening gang violence.
UN chief Antonio Guterres is scheduled to visit gang-ravaged Haiti to express solidarity with victims of violence in the impoverished Caribbean nation, which has long suffered from political, economic, and security crises.
The United States launched new 'self-defense strikes' against multiple targets in Iran, prompting Iran to announce the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to all ships. This escalation raised concerns about oil flow disruptions and regional stability.
The UN Secretary-General emphasized the critical need to maintain a UN force in Lebanon even after the current peacekeepers conclude their mission. He highlighted the importance of the force for stability in the region.
The UN Secretary-General voiced deep concern over Russia's announced plans for systematic strikes on Kyiv, with Russian officials warning diplomats to evacuate. Meanwhile, the UK and Poland are set to sign a defense treaty amid escalating Russian threats and cyberattack warnings.
The UN chief has condemned the Quetta train blast, stating that terrorism in all its forms is unacceptable and stressing the importance of identifying and bringing the perpetrators to justice.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi is scheduled to meet with UN chief Guterres during his four-day visit to Japan. Following this, PM Takaichi will travel to South Korea to hold talks with President Lee.
During an Africa summit in Nairobi, French President Emmanuel Macron announced significant investments and backed the restitution of colonial artifacts. He also publicly reprimanded noisy attendees for a "total lack of respect" during his speech.
President Trump notified the U.S. Congress that military hostilities with Iran had ceased, asserting that no further approval was required regarding the conflict. He also mentioned having options against Iran and expressed dissatisfaction with a new Iranian proposal.
Donald Trump has reportedly instructed his aides to prepare for an extended blockade of Iran, particularly the Strait of Hormuz. He also issued a stern warning to Iran, stating they 'better get smart soon' and that the 'no more Mr. nice guy' approach is over.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called on South Africa to end xenophobia, condemning recent violence and intimidation against foreign nationals.
The UN chief has called for the opening of the Strait of Hormuz, warning that its closure could lead to 'empty fuel tanks and bellies' and negatively impact the global economy.
The competition to become the next United Nations chief is intensifying, with four candidates actively vying for the top position and working to distinguish themselves.
Former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet has announced her candidacy to become the first female Secretary-General of the United Nations, aiming to break a historical barrier.
European leaders are reportedly discussing alternative plans for defense and security, including a separate joint European army, in case the United States withdraws from NATO under a potential future Trump administration.
The UN chief expressed concern over the lack of international action regarding Sudan, which he described as the world's largest refugee and hunger crisis.
Former Senegalese president Macky Sall's nomination for UN chief by Burundi has revealed fractured support across Africa, with procedural disputes and regional politics hindering a united endorsement.
President Donald Trump has dismissed Pam Bondi from her role as U.S. Attorney General, with multiple reports confirming her ousting and prompting speculation regarding the reasons behind the decision, including alleged dissatisfaction with her handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case and lack of investigations into political opponents, despite her loyalty to the president.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan revealed details of secret negotiations regarding Iran, stating that messages are being relayed through Pakistan, and warned that Israel is currently the biggest obstacle to peace in the Middle East. This comes as Pakistan's leadership continues to position the nation as a pivotal peacemaker amid the US-Iran conflict, holding crisis meetings to navigate the war on its borders.
Iran-linked hackers have publicly claimed responsibility for breaching the personal email of FBI Director Kash Patel, publishing photographs, a resume, and other personal documents. A Justice Department official has confirmed the breach, which has been widely reported by international media, with the Handala hack team specifically claiming responsibility for the attack on Friday.
Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem stated that negotiating with Israel under fire would be 'surrender' for Lebanon, as Israeli forces continue strikes and expand a 'buffer zone' in southern Lebanon, including the UN-monitored area, prompting UN Secretary-General Guterres to warn that Lebanon must not become the next Gaza and urge a halt to the fighting.
The UN chief has warned that the Mideast war 'has gone too far' and demanded that Iran halt its attacks on neighbors, as Pakistan's Foreign Minister confirmed ongoing indirect US-Iran talks with Pakistan mediating, and Israel claimed to have killed Iran's navy chief overseeing the Strait of Hormuz blockade.
Sources indicate that President Trump's 'Board of Peace' has presented a disarmament proposal to Hamas, while UN Secretary-General António Guterres has confirmed the organization's active cooperation with the board on efforts concerning Gaza and called for an end to the Strait of Hormuz closure.
U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Sunday Muslims worldwide continue to face discrimination and exclusion, calling on governments and societies to take stronger steps to...
The United Nations chief has emphasized that diplomatic solutions are available and should be pursued to bring an end to the ongoing conflict in Lebanon.
Air cargo prices are skyrocketing due to disruptions in key shipping lanes caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. This has forced many carriers to reroute their vessels, leading to longer transit times and increased operational costs, which are then passed on to consumers.
The UN chief has begun a visit to Lebanon, using the opportunity to urge both Hezbollah and Israel to cease hostilities and de-escalate the ongoing conflict.
The UN chief has condemned the killing of a UNICEF worker during a strike in the Democratic Republic of Congo, highlighting the dangers faced by humanitarian personnel.
Cypriot MEP Loukas Fourlas presented a European Parliament report documenting rapes against women during the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus to United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in New York.
A new secretary-general of the United Nations will be appointed on 1 January, 2027 to succeed Antonio Guterres, with three current nominations on the table – former Senegalese president Macky Sall, plus former Chilean president Michelle Bachelet and the director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Argentine Rafael Grossi.
The "danger of third-party involvement" in the war between Iran, Israel, and the United States is concerning the Russian leader, who spoke on the phone with his Qatari counterpart.
Khamenei was reportedly killed Saturday after the U.S. and Israel launched a pre-dawn assault on the country.
The post UN chief responds to reported killing of Iran’s Supreme leader, Ayatollah…
Later, Iran's Ambassador to the UN Amir-Saeid Iravani said that the country was "exercising its inherent and lawful right of self-defense," in response to "aggression and large-scale war."
Worldle-mondeThe GuardianAl Jazeera+8SCMPla-repubblicahinduhindustan-timesDawnjapan-timesexpress-tribuneDaily Star BD4mo ago11 sources
Ogun State’s Chief Judge called on judges to protect their integrity and resist political influence at the 50th anniversary of the Ogun State Judiciary, with an eye on the 2027 elections.
The UN chief has warned of a rapidly shifting global security order, stating that human rights are under a 'full-scale attack' worldwide and highlighting violations in occupied Palestinian territory that undermine the two-state solution.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that human rights are being overshadowed by the 'rule of force' globally, specifically highlighting 'blatant violations of human rights, human dignity and international law' in Palestine.
President Emmanuel Macron stated at the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi that France and the EU are committed to leading global regulation efforts for artificial intelligence with their allies.
The head of the United Nations has called on countries to provide stronger financial support for the agency assisting Palestinian refugees, expressing fears for millions amid a funding shortfall.
Ogun State Chief Judge, Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, has called upon lawyers and judges to maintain judicial integrity and ethical standards to foster public confidence in the legal system.
The United Nations Secretary-General has called on artificial intelligence companies to be transparent about their environmental costs. This appeal comes as a heatwave sweeps across Europe, highlighting the urgency of addressing climate change.
The Chief Judge of Ogun State has emphasized the crucial need for integrity and strong character within the legal profession to ensure effective justice administration.
Over 2,300 people have been killed in gang violence in Haiti this year, according to the UN Human Rights Chief, with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expected to visit Port-au-Prince.
The UN Chief has condemned new Israeli strikes on Lebanon, urging all parties to exercise maximum restraint. This condemnation comes amid renewed efforts for a ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran.
The UN Secretary-General has issued a stark warning about the Middle East sinking 'deeper into crisis,' cautioning against the risk of a 'full resumption of conflict' or 'total war' in the region.
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged the United Nations to intervene in Nigeria's escalating insecurity crisis. SERAP specifically called for Nigeria to be referred to the Security Council over widespread abductions and killings.
The United Nations has added Israel and Russia to its annual blacklist of parties committing sexual violence in conflict zones, leading to Israel's decision to cut ties with the UN chief.
Pakistan's Foreign Minister Dar has assured the UN chief of the country's 'continued engagement and dialogue' in efforts to restore peace in the region.
Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met with UN Secretary-General António Guterres in New York to discuss the situation in the Middle East and assure Pakistan's continued engagement for peace.
The UN chief expressed disappointment after a nuclear treaty conference failed to reach an agreement, stating it fell short when the world needed it most.
An ADC chieftain in Osun State, Babatunde Loye, has expressed confidence in his party's vision and leadership, stating it has the capacity to place Nigeria on the path of progress.
On World Press Freedom Day, organizations and leaders worldwide highlighted persistent threats to journalists, including red-tagging, attacks, and impunity, with concerns raised over declining press freedom in various countries.
International bodies and leaders are expressing growing concern over the gridlock and potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz, warning of its severe impact on the global economy and food supply. The UN Secretary-General has called for its immediate reopening, while Iran has declared a "new chapter" in its management.
The United Arab Emirates is reportedly considering withdrawing from OPEC, a move that has sparked significant concerns about global oil supply and market stability. This potential departure is expected to have wide-ranging economic and geopolitical implications.
Worldruvaftonbladetglobe-and-mail+16SCMPsvenska-dagbladetrzeczpospolitaTimes of Indiastraits-timescyprus-mailiefimeridaKorea Herald+8 more2mo ago19 sources
A UN proliferation meeting heard warnings about the 'looming' risk of a nuclear arms race, with several nations expressing concerns over global security. Discussions highlighted the urgent need for international cooperation to prevent further proliferation.
The UN chief and ECOWAS have condemned recent terrorist attacks in Mali. Both organizations called for a coordinated international and regional response to the situation.
The United Nations has issued a warning that a potential US-Israeli war on Iran could push more than 30 million people back into poverty. This stark projection highlights the severe humanitarian and economic consequences of such a conflict.
The trial against Peter Peterlik, former Secretary-General of the Austrian Foreign Ministry under Karin Kneissl, is continuing. He faces charges related to his tenure, with a verdict potentially imminent.
The European Union moved to unlock a €90 billion loan for Ukraine after Hungary's Viktor Orbán lifted his veto, marking a significant development in EU financial aid to Kyiv.
A US-led 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah has commenced, allowing thousands of displaced Lebanese residents to begin returning to southern Lebanon. Many are returning despite warnings about unexploded ordnance and potential dangers.
Hungarian opposition figure Peter Magyar announced plans to suspend state television and radio broadcasts, promising to reform public media to ensure press freedom and truth for Hungarians. This pledge comes amidst political discussions involving figures like Donald Trump and Serbian President Vučić regarding Hungarian politics.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for respect for navigational rights and freedom in the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing that peace agreements require persistent engagement and political will.
In the coming days, France and the United Kingdom will organise a conference with countries wishing to participate in a peaceful multinational mission to restore freedom of navigation in the…
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has dismissed General Randy George, the Chief of Staff of the Army, as part of a significant leadership shake-up in the Pentagon, reportedly targeting specific demographics. This high-profile removal occurs amidst the ongoing Iran war and a broader purge of military leadership under Hegseth.
The bulk carrier LMZ Pluto has finally been towed to port after a demanding nine-day rescue operation, following an engine failure that necessitated the evacuation of all crew members.
The UN chief and Saudi Arabia condemned attacks on the residences of Iraqi Kurdish officials, calling for an immediate probe. The UK has also condemned the attack on President Nechirvan Barzani’s residence and reaffirmed its support for Kurdistan.
Argentine diplomat Virginia Gamba has withdrawn from the race to become the next United Nations Secretary-General after the Maldives rescinded her nomination, narrowing the field ahead of public candidate dialogues.
An Egba chief used the Lisabi Festival to emphasize the historical importance of unity and sacrificial leadership, celebrating the liberation of the Egba people from Oyo.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu boasts about expanding the country's 'buffer zone' from Lebanon, while Iran has told mediators that Lebanon must be included in any ceasefire agreement with the US and Israel, linking the end of the war to a halt in Israel's offensive.
The UN's World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has released its flagship State of the Global Climate report, confirming the past decade (2015-2025) as the hottest on record and Earth's heat imbalance hitting a record high in 2025, prompting the UN chief to warn of 'climate chaos' and deepening planetary imbalance.
The UN chief has urged the US and Israel to end the ongoing war, warning of its dramatic effects on the global economy and potentially tragic consequences for least developed countries.
US says its firepower will ‘surge dramatically’ and IDF warns of ‘surprises ahead’, as Iran launches retaliatory strikes
Middle East crisis – live updates
Israel and the US have bombarded Iran and…
Four Ghanaian army officers wounded in a missile attack on their UNIFIL peacekeeping base in southern Lebanon are responding to treatment and are expected to receive further medical care in Lebanon.
The UN Secretary-General stated that the widespread closure of schools across the Gulf region serves as a stark reminder that children are the first to suffer the consequences of escalating conflicts, impacting their education, safety, and lives.
Tensions on ground translated into a heated exchange between the US and Israel, and Iran during an emergency United Nations Security Council meeting on Saturday.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed concern that the rule of law is being 'outmuscled' globally, emphasizing challenges to international legal frameworks.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, in his final address to the UN's top human rights body, expressed concern over the global erosion of human rights and the increasing prevalence of the 'rule of force'.
The Secretary-General of the United Nations has issued a blunt warning that global human rights are under constant pressure, with powerful actors increasingly sidelining international law and deployin
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that global human rights are under a full-scale attack as the 'rule of force' increasingly overtakes the rule of law.
The UN chief has expressed concern that artificial intelligence development should not be left solely to the discretion of a small number of billionaires.
• Pakistan asks international community to reject provocative decision allowing takeover of occupied land as state property
• EU calls annexation illegal, Arab nations denounce ‘threat to peace efforts’
• Israel imposes restrictions, deploys police around Al-Aqsa
JERUSALEM / ISLAMABAD: As Pakistan denounced the latest Israeli move to convert areas of the West Bank into “state property”, the UN chief called upon Tel Aviv to reverse its new, “unlawful” policy allowing registration of the occupied land in the occupied territory as state property.
Israel’s foreign ministry claimed the measure, approved late on Sunday, would enable “transparent and thorough clarification of rights to resolve legal disputes” but the move drew strong condemnations from across the globe for its violation of international law.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said this new measure was destabilising and unlawful, according to a statement by his spokesman Stephane Dujarric.
Pakistan also denounced the step as a clear violation of international law as well as relevant United Nations Security Council and General Assembly resolutions. Islamabad urged the international community to reject the decision, said a statement issued by the Foreign Office spokesperson. It added that the occupying power continued to disregard international law and its provocative actions undermined the prospects for a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace in the region.
“Pakistan calls on the international community to take concrete measures to end Israeli impunity, and ensure respect for international law,” the spokesperson added.
‘Undermine peace efforts’
Arab nations Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar and Jordan also criticised the move as illegal. The measure is “aimed at imposing a new legal and administrative reality in the occupied West Bank” that would undermine peace efforts in the region, Saudi Arabia’s foreign affairs ministry said in a statement.
Jordan’s King Abdullah II said the actions “undermine efforts to restore calm and threaten to exacerbate the conflict,” according to a statement released by the royal court.
The European Union called on Israel to reverse the move. “This constitutes a new escalation after recent measures already aimed at extending Israeli control,” EU foreign affairs spokesman Anouar El Anouni said. “We reiterate that annexation is illegal under international law.”
The Ramallah-based Palestinian Authority called for international intervention to prevent the “de facto beginning of the annexation process and the undermining of the foundations of the Palestinian state”.
Israeli anti-settlement watchdog Peace Now called the measure a “mega land grab”. Jonathan Mizrachi, the NGO’s co-director, told AFP that the move would attribute new resources for land registration.
“There was a lot of ambiguity regarding the land, and Israel decided now to deal with it,” Mizrachi said, adding that the grey area over Area C land ownership was likely to be used against Palestinians.
“A lot of land that Palestinians consider theirs, they will find out it’s not theirs under this new registration process,” he said, believing the move would further the Israeli right’s annexation agenda.
Changing demography
Palestinians see the West Bank as foundational to any future Palestinian state, but many on Israel’s religious right want to take over the land.
The latest Israeli initiatives come in the wider context of increasing attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank, according to rights groups.
“We are witnessing rapid steps to change permanently the demography of the occupied Palestinian territory, stripping its people of their lands and forcing them to leave,” UN rights chief Volker Turk said in a recent statement.
US President Donald Trump has opposed Israel’s annexation of the West Bank, saying stability in the territory helps keep Israel secure.
However, he has held off from directly criticising the new Israeli measures, despite the international outrage.
Excluding Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem, more than 500,000 Israelis live in West Bank settlements and outposts, which are illegal under international law.
Around three million Palestinians live in the territory, which Israel has occupied since 1967.
Al-Aqsa restrictions
Israeli police said Monday that they would deploy in force around the Al-Aqsa Mosque during Ramazan, as Palestinian officials accused Israel of imposing restrictions at the compound.
Over the course of the month of fasting and prayer, hundreds of thousands of Palestinians traditionally attend prayers at Islam’s third-holiest site. Arad Braverman, a senior Jerusalem police officer, said forces would be deployed “day and night” across the compound, adding that thousands of police would also be on duty for Friday prayers.
Braverman said police had recommended issuing 10,000 permits for Palestinians from the occupied West Bank, who require special permission to enter Jerusalem.
The Palestinian Jerusalem Governorate said it had been informed that permits would again be restricted to men over 55.
Published in Dawn, February 17th, 2026