UN - Top Stories

1. World News in Brief: Attacks on synagogues, Syria’s continuing rights violations, shocking abuse of women during childbirth

   The first two weeks of March have seen a surge in violent attacks and acts of intimidation targeting synagogues and Jewish institutions across North America and Europe. 

2. Myanmar at a ‘crossroads’: The world must not forsake civilians there, urges UN expert

   More than five years after Myanmar’s military coup, international resolve to hold the junta accountable must not weaken, an independent human rights expert warned on Friday, as escalating violence and growing humanitarian needs push millions of civilians deeper into crisis.

3. UN chief launches major humanitarian appeal from war-torn Lebanon

   In a solidarity visit to the war-ravaged capital of Lebanon, the UN chief on Friday announced a flash humanitarian appeal of $308.3 million to support civilians there, after ongoing Israeli strikes countering rocket launches from Hezbollah left around 816,000 Lebanese internally displaced, a figure that looks set to rise.

4. Middle East war: Women in Lebanon forced to give birth on roadside

   As the UN Secretary-General touched down in Beirut on Friday in solidarity with the people of Lebanon, UN agencies highlighted the dangers for civilians and particularly pregnant women and migrant workers, amid ongoing airstrikes and rocket fire between Hezbollah fighters and Israel. 

5. MIDDLE EAST LIVE 13 March: Displacement and civilian casualties mount across region

   Escalating hostilities across the Middle East continue to drive civilian casualties, mass displacement and mounting humanitarian needs. Fighting along the Israel-Lebanon border has intensified, while millions across the region face growing risks from disrupted health services, overcrowded shelters and strained aid operations. Stay with us for live updates from across the UN system. App users can follow coverage here.