UN Direct

The SG: The SG traveled to Jordan and Iraq today, where he raised concerns about the political divisions that remain in the country.

Syria: The SG has grave concerns about the existence and possible use of chemical weapons in Syria.

Climate Change: The SG spoke at the UN Climate Change Conference in Doha today, urging countries to take action to tackle the “growing crisis.”

Syria: The Department of Safety and Security confirmed today that the UN is pulling out
all “non-essential personnel” from Syria with “immediate effect” and is temporarily suspending all of its movements within the country due to the worsening security
situation.

Palestine: After the adoption of the resolution granting Palestine non-member observer state status yesterday, the SG stated that the vote “underscores the urgency of a resumption of meaningful negotiations” and urges both Israel and Palestine to renew their commitment to a negotiated peace.

Palestine: The GA granted Palestine non-member observer state status this afternoon, with 138 Member States in favor, 9 against, and 41 abstaining from the vote on the draft resolution.

Violence Against Women: The SG spoke at an event commemorating the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women today, calling on governments to fulfill their “obligation to develop or improve the relevant laws, policies and plans” to bring justice to women who have been victims of violence.

Palestine: Ambassador Riyad Mansour, of the Permanent Observer Mission of Palestine to the UN, briefed the press this morning on the upcoming vote in the GA on Palestine’s status.

The SG: The SG is in Vienna today meeting with Austrian leaders, including the President and Foreign Minister, on developments in the Middle East, Africa, and South-eastern Europe.