President Trump appoints Michel Issa as ambassador to Lebanon, emphasizing his business acumen. Freed Israeli hostages call for full implementation of the Gaza ceasefire. The UAE sets a target to reduce food waste amid Ramadan initiatives. The OIC supports a Palestinian reconstruction plan while opposing Trump’s Gaza takeover proposal. Syria’s OIC membership is reactivated, reaffirming regional connections.
On Friday, US President Donald Trump announced the appointment of Michel Issa as the US ambassador to Lebanon. Trump highlighted Issa’s extensive background in business and finance, describing him as an “outstanding businessman, a financial expert, and a leader with a remarkable career in Banking, Entrepreneurship, and International Trade”. This appointment reflects the administration’s emphasis on leveraging experienced professionals for diplomatic positions.
In Jerusalem, over 50 freed Israeli hostages made a plea to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urging him to fully implement the Gaza ceasefire deal. They stressed the urgency of the situation, asserting, “We who have experienced the inferno know that a return to war is life-threatening for those still left behind.” Among the signatories was Yarden Bibas, who suffered the tragedy of losing his wife and children during their captivity. Their call comes amidst ongoing negotiations about hostages and ceasefire agreements with Hamas, indicating a strong desire for continued humanitarian considerations.
During Ramadan, an estimated 3.27 million tons of food is wasted annually in the UAE. The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment reported that food waste peaks during this period, with 60% wastage in Dubai. In a bid to tackle this issue, the UAE has initiated a national target to reduce food waste by 50% by 2030, aligning with international sustainability goals. The UAE Food Bank’s initiatives include collecting surplus food and distributing it to families in need, helping to alleviate hunger while reducing waste.
At a recent summit in Cairo, Arab leaders endorsed a counter-proposal to President Trump’s plan regarding the future of Gaza. This proposal aims to rebuild the region under the Palestinian Authority’s administration, emphasizing collaboration within the international framework. The Organization of Islamic Cooperation expressed support for this initiative while opposing displacement strategies previously suggested by Trump, which have been criticized globally. Several leaders emphasized the need for a two-state solution to ensure comprehensive peace in the Middle East.
The Syrian Arab Republic has welcomed the reactivation of its membership in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, which had been frozen since 2012 amid internal conflict. This decision, celebrated by Syrian officials, reflects a potential restoration of the nation’s credibility on both regional and international fronts. The OIC’s support aligns with efforts to reintegrate Syria following years of civil unrest, signaling a move towards renewed diplomatic relations.
The Gulf Cooperation Council has reiterated its commitment to supporting Syria’s stability and security. Secretary General Jasem Al-Budaiwi condemned acts of violence that threaten Syria’s peace, emphasizing the need for a just and prosperous future for the Syrian people. His statements align with the GCC’s ongoing assistance to Syria in overcoming challenges faced during and after the civil war, highlighting regional solidarity and shared aspirations for peace.
In summary, the recent geo-political developments have showcased significant diplomatic engagements in the Middle East. The appointment of Michel Issa as US ambassador to Lebanon positions a seasoned businessman in diplomacy, while freed Israeli hostages’ appeal emphasizes the complexity of the Gaza ceasefire negotiations. Concurrently, the UAE’s food waste initiatives underscore domestic concerns amid humanitarian efforts, while the OIC’s support for Palestine and Syria reflects a united Arab stance against displacement and violence. Collectively, these events highlight the ongoing efforts toward stability and international cooperation in the region.
Original Source: www.arabnews.pk
