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The Russian Foreign Ministry has expressed deep concern over the escalating risk of outer space becoming a battleground for conflict."We see an increasing threat of outer space serving as a launchpad for aggression and war," Deputy Director of the Russian Foreign Ministry's Department for Non-Proliferation and Arms Control Konstantin Vorontsov said at a meeting of the First Committee of the UN General Assembly."Certain Western countries are openly advancing plans to deploy weapons in space," he added, pointing to the United States as a prime example - as part of its initiative that is focused on the comprehensive development of missile defense systems, including orbital interception capabilities, according to (TASS) news agency.Vorontsov warned that such developments could lead to "a significant destabilization of the current situation and spark an arms race in outer space."Vorontsov emphasized that preventing a full-scale arms race remains within reach. He called for the development of universal, legally binding norms that would prohibit the placement of weapons in space and the use of force against space assets.He highlighted Russia's efforts in this regard, including the updated Russian-Chinese draft treaty aimed at preventing the placement of weapons in outer space, as well as an international initiative advocating for no first deployment of weapons in space. Notably, 37 countries have already joined this initiative.Vorontsov also announced that Russia has submitted three draft resolutions on space security to the First Committee, urging all nations to support these proposals.

Ten civilians were killed and a dozen more were wounded late Friday in a Pakistani strike on a border province in western Afghanistan, an official at the Paktika provincial hospital said."In the airstrike on Urgun district, 10 civilians were killed and 12 others wounded," he told AFP on condition of anonymity, adding that two children were among the dead.Earlier Friday, a senior Taliban official accused Pakistan of breaking a 48-hour ceasefire that had brought two days of calm to the border, and warned that Kabul would "retaliate."

More than a year of siege in the western Sudanese city of El-Fasher has forced some civilians to turn to animal skins for food as the country's war grinds on.El-Fasher is the last major holdout in the vast western Darfur region against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), at war with the regular army since April 2023.With the RSF's nearly 18-month siege cutting off humanitarian aid to the city -- home to 400,000 trapped civilians -- El-Fasher has run out of almost everything."After not eating for three days, three of my neighbours and I roasted cowhide," said Salah Abdallah, 47."Even then, it was difficult to get firewood to light a fire."Soup kitchens, until recently run by volunteers, have closed for lack of supplies.A civilian group documenting the civil war's abuses, the El-Fasher resistance committee, posted a video on social media on Wednesday showing rolls of animal skin sizzling on a small wood fire."The people of El-Facher are now eating cowhide to survive because there isn't even any animal fodder left," the committee wrote.Livestock feed, once used as a meal of last resort, has become scarce and exorbitantly priced.On X, a user who shared the video said they were "old skins" used to stave off hunger.Since August the RSF has stepped up its artillery and drone bombardments in an attempt to take the strategic city.In recent weeks the paramilitaries have seized control of several sectors of El-Fasher, and are wearing down the army's last strongholds bit by bit.After fleeing his Awlad Al-Rif neighbourhood in El-Fasher, which fell to the RSF in recent weeks, Salah Adam found refuge in a reception centre in the city's Daraja Oula quarter."My family left the city three months ago. I stayed behind to keep an eye on our home," the 28-year-old university student explained."In the first two days after the soup kitchens shut down, I shared one bowl of corn porridge without salt with another family," he said, adding that he had not eaten since Wednesday."I will leave the city, no matter the danger."According to satellite images analysed by Yale University's Humanitarian Research Lab, the RSF have dug nearly 68 kilometres of earthwork embankments around the city. A corridor just three to four kilometres wide is the only exit.The war in Sudan was triggered by a power struggle between two former allies: General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the army commander and de facto ruler of Sudan since a 2021 coup, and General Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, head of the RSF.The conflict has killed tens of thousands of people, displaced millions and pushed nearly 25 million into acute hunger.According to the United Nations, more than one million people have fled El-Fasher since the war began, accounting for 10 percent of all internally displaced people in the country.Among them is Ibrahim Osman, who now lives in Tawila, around 70 kilometres west of the city."I had decided not to leave it at all, despite the never-ending bombardment, but the fear of dying of hunger pushed me to leave," the 36-year-old said.The population of the city, once the region's largest, has decreased by about 62 percent, the UN's migration agency said.If El-Fasher falls to the RSF, the paramilitaries will have control of the entire Darfur region, where they have sought to establish a rival administration.The army holds the country's north, centre and east, while the RSF holds sway in the west and parts of the south.

Russia and Ukraine exchanged reports of downing drones, in a continuation of the conflict between the two sides that has been ongoing since February 2022. The Russian Ministry of Defense reported Sunday that its air defense systems destroyed 32 Ukrainian drones overnight. For its part, Ukrainian authorities announced that, according to preliminary data, air defense forces downed 103 drones in the north, east, and south of the country. Since the beginning of the war, which has entered its fourth year, Russia and Ukraine have exchanged almost daily reports confirming that each side has repelled attacks from the other side, without verifying these data from an independent source, given the circumstances of the ongoing war.

Doha Forum, in collaboration with the International Crisis Group, convened an expert panel discussion in Brussels on Thursday, titled "Fault Lines and Frontlines: Intersecting Conflict Theatres in the Middle East and Europe." The event, held at the Embassy of the State of Qatar, brought together diplomats, officials, and policy experts for a timely discussion on the growing interconnection between conflict dynamics across both regions.As geopolitical tensions deepen and conflict theatres become increasingly interdependent, the session examined how developments in one region influence the security, economic, and humanitarian landscapes of the other. Panelists discussed the implications of shifting alliances, energy interdependence, and the role of major and regional powers — from the United States and the European Union to Turkiye and the Gulf states — in navigating these complex and overlapping challenges.The event featured opening remarks by Executive Vice President of the International Crisis Group Richard Atwood, and His Excellency Executive Director of the Doha Forum Mubarak Ajlan Al Kuwari.Panelists included: Permanent Delegate of Turkiye to the EU Ambassador Faruk Kaymakci; Special Envoy for the Middle East at the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Johan Verkammen; Managing Director for the Middle East and North Africa at the European External Action Service (EEAS) Ambassador Helene Le Gal; and Deputy Executive Director of the European Institute of Peace Stine Lehman-Larsen.HE Executive Director of Doha Forum, said: "Doha Forum is committed to fostering dialogue that bridges regions, perspectives, and disciplines. The dynamics connecting Europe and the Middle East underscore the importance of collective understanding and cooperative diplomacy. Events like this help strengthen mutual engagement and advance more inclusive, effective approaches to conflict prevention and resolution."Meanwhile, Executive Vice President, International Crisis Group said: "We are a proud partner of the Doha Forum. We are pleased that this year, which marks Crisis Group's 30th anniversary, we also have the opportunity to co-host a side-event with the Doha Forum in Brussels. Specifically, we felt it was important to discuss the growing interdependence of conflict theatres in the Middle East and Europe and identify opportunities for cross-regional collaboration to better prevent and resolve conflicts."The Doha Forum - International Crisis Group event took place ahead of Doha Forum 2025, which will be held in Doha from 6 to 7 December under the theme "Justice in Action: Beyond Promises to Progress."The Doha Forum is a leading global platform that brings together leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, civil society representatives, and thought leaders to exchange visions and work together to find innovative solutions to the world's most pressing challenges.The Forum's vision is based on the values ​​of integrity, inclusivity, innovation, respect for diversity of viewpoints, and fostering a culture of mutual respect and shared progress.The last edition of the Doha Forum was held in December 2024, under the theme "The Innovation Imperative," with over 5,000 participants from over 162 countries, including over 350 speakers, attending the two-day event.

The UAE has welcomed the announcement by US President Donald Trump on the agreement of a first-phase ceasefire framework in the Gaza Strip, highlighting his important role in supporting the process and urging the parties to reach urgent understandings to halt the tragic conflict and restore peace and stability in the enclave. In a statement today, the Emirati Ministry of Foreign Affairs commended President Trump's efforts in leading these initiatives and also commended the persistent efforts of Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey in facilitating the discussions that led to the agreement. The ministry expressed hope that the agreement would be a positive step towards ending the humanitarian suffering in Gaza and paving the way for a fair and lasting resolution that guarantees the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people while restoring security and stability to the region. It emphasised the importance of building on this progress through all parties' commitment to the agreement's terms, restraint, and a renewed focus on a comprehensive political process leading to a two-state solution, ensuring peace, security, and prosperity for all peoples in the region. Earlier today, US President Donald Trump announced that Israel and the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) had signed the first phase of the peace plan, expressing his gratitude to the mediators from the State of Qatar, the Arab Republic of Egypt, and the Republic of Turkey. (QNA) The UAE reiterated its steadfast support for regional and international efforts to end the escalation, achieve just and comprehensive peace, and ensure the urgent, safe, and unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid to the Palestinian people in Gaza.

An international conference on the protection of journalists in armed conflict zones began in Doha Wednesday.The conference is organised by the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) and Al Jazeera Public Liberties and Human Rights Centre (PLHRC) at Al Jazeera Media Network and in cooperation with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) and the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights.Inaugurated by HE NHRC Chairperson Maryam bint Abdullah al-Attiyah, the conference will discuss ways to enhance the protection of journalists and ensure their safety while covering conflicts, and to address the issue of impunity for crimes committed against them, with the participation of international officials, experts, and media professionals.In this context, HE al-Attiyah said that organizing this conference comes within the context of the NHRC closely monitoring the conditions of journalists in areas of armed conflict, in addition to its keenness to follow up on the implementation of the outcomes of the previous conferences, especially the recommendations of the first Doha Declaration, issued by the international conference for the protection of journalists in dangerous situation, held in January 2012.In her opening remarks, she added that while the NHRC is proud to note the reference to this declaration in numerous Human Rights Council resolutions, and welcomed the interpretation of a number of its recommendations into practical action, including the establishment of a unit dedicated to the safety of journalists within the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, the NHRC renews its determination through this conference to move forward in enhancing protection and establishing a safe and enabling environment for journalists.HE al-Attiyah emphasized that it is no longer acceptable to limit oneself to mere condemnation. The widening scope of crimes and serious violations against journalists points to the urgent need for broad action involving governments, national human rights institutions, and all stakeholders, along with UN agencies, to activate the rules of international law and implement comprehensive reforms to protection mechanisms. She said that the NHRC declares its commitment to following up on the implementation of the outcomes of this conference, in cooperation with various partners. The issue of protecting journalists will remain a top priority, in support of the truth and redress for victims.HE Director General of Al Jazeera Media Network Sheikh Nasser bin Faisal al-Thani said that while the blood of Al Jazeera journalists in the Gaza Strip has not yet dried in defence of the truth, the profession of journalism is facing tests that threaten its very existence and its humanitarian role.He added that Al Jazeera Media Network has made the protection and safety of its journalists a firm priority, developing specialized training programs for its crews working in conflict zones and ensuring the highest standards of professional safety. However, its correspondents have been targeted simply for carrying out their duties. The number of Al Jazeera martyrs has reached 22 so far, 10 of whom were killed during the ongoing Israeli aggression on Gaza.Addressing the International Conference on the Protection of Journalists in Armed Conflicts, HE Sheikh Nasser stressed that Al Jazeera Media Network calls for unifying initiatives and strengthening solidarity among media institutions, human rights organizations, and nations to halt the killing of journalists and end the policy of impunity for their murderers.Sheikh Nasser highlighted that Al Jazeera has been driving this cause forward for years, with a key milestone being the launch of the Doha Declaration on the Protection of Journalists in 2016, a document that received the endorsement of the Human Rights Council and Unesco and stands as the first international document propelled by a media institution for adoption within UN frameworks.Unesco Assistant Director-General for Communication and Information Dr. Tawfik Jelassi stated in a recorded broadcast during the opening session that free and independent media are an essential pillar of democracy, yet it is equally crucial to ensure the safety of journalists and media workers while performing their vital role.Journalists around the globe encounter threats, harassment, and censorship, and often lethal violence, while female journalists remain particularly vulnerable to harassment, both online and offline, Dr. Jelassi highlighted.Dr Jelassi emphasised that protecting journalists in conflict zones remains a top priority for Unesco, averring that Unesco has repeatedly condemned the killing of journalists in Gaza, Sudan, Ukraine, Yemen, and other conflict zones, and affirms that journalists are civilians who must be protected under Security Council Resolution 2222.In a recorded intervention, Commissioner at the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights (ACHPR) and Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information, Ourveena Geereesha Topsy-Sonoo emphasized that journalist protection is central to the African Commission's work, which closely monitors violations against journalists across Africa.The opening session concluded with a moment of silence honouring journalists who lost their lives in conflict zones worldwide, followed by the inauguration of a photo exhibition showcasing journalists' equipment and images of those martyred in Gaza and Iraq.

The death toll from the Israeli occupation aggression on the Gaza Strip has risen to 66,005 people killed and 168,162 wounded since Oct. 7, 2023.Medical officials in Gaza told the Palestinian news agency WAFA that 79 people were killed and 379 wounded in the past 24 hours.Among those, six people were killed and 66 wounded while seeking aid, bringing the total number of people killed in aid-related incidents to 2,566 and the wounded to more than 18,769 since the start of the conflict.Since March 18, 2025, the offensive has killed 13,137 people and wounded 56,121.Many victims remain trapped under rubble or in the streets, as ambulance and civil defense teams have been unable to reach them, the officials added.

The United States, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt proposed a roadmap to end the conflict in Sudan, calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire following a three-month truce and for a nine-month transitional process to establish a civilian-led government.In a joint statement, the foreign ministers of the four countries urged a three-month humanitarian truce to allow urgent delivery of aid, to be followed by a permanent ceasefire. They stressed that there was no military solution to the conflict and warned that the current situation was causing unacceptable suffering and posing risks to peace and security. The ministers also rejected any return of Sudan's former regime or groups linked to it.The warring parties in Sudan have not yet stated their positions on this initiative.This joint appeal followed a call last June by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for a one-week truce in El Fasher, a proposal accepted by the Sudanese army but rejected by the Rapid Support Forces.The war in Sudan has created the world's worst humanitarian crisis, pushing much of the population into famine and leaving millions in extremely dire conditions.

Speaking to Qatar News Agency (QNA) regarding the turning point in the Palestinian cause and the targeting of journalists in Gaza, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Qatar Press Center, Saad Al Rumaihi stated that the Israeli assaults on the Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023, represent a historic shift in the course of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, as the people of Gaza stood alone in the face of this brutal aggression that did not distinguish between people and stone.He added that the Palestinian people have recorded a heroic epic that will be immortalized in history. Now, as the second year nears its end, the struggle and resistance of Gaza's people continue, despite the imbalance of power between the two sides.Regarding the objective of the Israeli entity in continuing its aggression on the devastated Strip, Al Rumaihi stressed that people cannot learn the facts and what is happening on the ground and the course of battles, except through journalists and media professionals who deliver information to the public, as known in wars and major events.He added that they are unknown soldiers who stand bravely so that the world can see, hear, and read the news of these events and understand the reality and what is happening.Therefore, he accentuated, the Israeli occupation has deliberately silenced these voices as long as they convey to the world the true image and the tragedies faced by the people of Gaza.He highlighted that the occupation can only achieve this through the most heinous and extreme violations, unfortunately, through the physical elimination of these great journalists.He underscored that the Israeli assaults on Palestinian journalists clearly reveal Israel's insistence on imposing its unilateral media narrative, which contradicts the reality on the ground.In light of the world's failure and inability to enact binding laws to protect journalists and media professionals and defend them against Israeli arrogance, the Chairman of the Qatar Press Center affirmed in his statements to QNA, that the situation requires urgent action to protect journalists, so that the matter does not remain a mere dream difficult to achieve.Al Rumaihi confirmed that Israel continues its arrogance without any deterrent punishment from international bodies and organizations concerned with humanitarian and journalistic affairs.He reiterated the need to capitalize on the wave of international outrage and the storm of criticism directed at Israeli policy due to its continuous and deliberate targeting of civilians in the Gaza Strip, including journalists, emphasizing the importance of harnessing the growing global humanitarian sentiment toward the Palestinian cause and Al Aqsa Mosque.He pointed out that the demonstrations and sit-ins that have swept many countries around the world now reflect this solidarity, even in the United States of America, where university campuses have turned into platforms for defending Gaza and its people.He explained that the Qatar Press Center has sought and continues to support the steadfastness of the people of Gaza through numerous media initiatives, seminars, exhibitions, news coverage, and other means, which it considers a duty as it lives through these events and follows their developments.The Chairman of the Qatar Press Center concluded by emphasizing the necessity of standing by the Palestinian people, moving beyond mere condemnation and denunciation, which is all we currently possess.He added that specialized global organizations must exert more pressure on Israel to stop its aggression against the Palestinian people, enabling them to obtain their most basic rights to live in safety and dignity.With every Israeli assault on media workers in Gaza and the Palestinian territories, renewed calls emerge from all press unions, media, human rights, and legal organizations around the world for explicit condemnation of these repeated crimes, with the urgent need to put an end to them, so that Israel does not succeed in its attempts to silence voices and images and prevent the transmission of the truth about the crimes it commits against the Palestinian people.