UN to vote on Gaza stabilisation force plan that references Palestinian state

Despite ongoing efforts by the government to improve relations with Beijing, Members of Parliament (MPs) were alerted this week to potential spying threats from China. This warning underscores the persistent concerns regarding national security and foreign espionage, particularly in the context of diplomatic relations that remain fragile. The implications of such threats could affect not only governmental operations but also public trust in the ability to safeguard sensitive information.

Saudi Arabia has been designated as a major non-NATO ally of the United States, a move celebrated by President Donald Trump as a significant enhancement of military cooperation. This designation comes alongside a deal for Saudi Arabia to acquire F-35 warplanes, marking a pivotal moment in U.S.-Saudi relations. The announcement reflects a deepening partnership between the two nations, particularly in defense and security matters.

The United Nations has agreed to hear a complaint against New Zealand's coalition government, filed by prominent Māori leader Lady Tureiti Moxon. The complaint alleges that government policies have resulted in significant and persistent discrimination against the Māori people. This action comes as part of the UN's committee for the convention on the elimination of all forms of racial discrimination (CERD), which will consider the claims made by Moxon regarding the treatment of Indigenous people in New Zealand.

Key events from day 1,364 of Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine are reported, highlighting the continued military actions and diplomatic efforts between the two nations. The conflict, which has persisted for nearly four years, remains a focal point of international concern, with significant implications for regional stability and global geopolitics.

Ukraine is seeking nearly $44 billion from Russia for damages related to increased climate-warming emissions caused by the ongoing war. This claim, announced by Deputy Minister Pavlo Kartashov, marks the first instance of a country seeking compensation for war-related emissions. The damages include emissions from fossil fuels, cement, and steel used in the conflict, as well as environmental destruction from fires. This announcement comes as Ukraine continues to navigate the impacts of the war on its environment and economy.

President Donald Trump on Tuesday urged Congress to establish a single nationwide standard for regulating artificial intelligence. He warned that a patchwork of state rules could hinder growth and jeopardize the United States' competitiveness against China in the rapidly evolving AI sector.

President Trump defended Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, asserting he 'knew nothing' about the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. This statement contradicts a CIA assessment that concluded the Crown Prince approved the killing. Trump's remarks come amid ongoing scrutiny of U.S.-Saudi relations and the implications of Khashoggi's murder on international diplomacy.

Donald Trump defended Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during a White House meeting, downplaying the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. This meeting coincided with the announcement of a significant arms deal, including the sale of F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. Trump's family has vested interests in Saudi projects, including the development of Trump Plaza in Jeddah, further complicating the political landscape surrounding U.S.-Saudi relations.