Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Press Questions topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Reporters press UN on Cuba fuel, Gaza evidence claims, Beirut probe and Afghan recognition
Summary
Reporters asked UN officials whether the UN is helping deliver fuel to Cuba, about allegations that rubble removal in Gaza erases evidence, whether the UN can help Lebanon’s probe of the Beirut blast, and whether Afghanistan’s de facto authorities might be recognized at the UN.
During the question period, Edie asked whether the United Nations is involved in efforts to get fuel to Cuba amid intense blackouts. Farhan replied that the UN has been talking with countries interested in helping to ensure fuel for humanitarian purposes, that there had been limited progress in getting small amounts of fuel in past months, and that efforts are ongoing.
A reporter citing the Euro Mediterranean Human Rights Monitor asked whether Israel was removing rubble and "wiping genocide evidence" in Gaza. Farhan said the UN is aware of such reports, has expressed its concerns about activities in Gaza, and said "all authorities need to abide by the rulings of the International Court of Justice." He also said the UN would continue to push for accountability and to support the return to normal life for residents.
Efraim asked whether the UN could help establish a fact‑finding mission on the Beirut port explosion after years of delays; Farhan said the UN has played a role through the office of the special coordinator for Lebanon and can offer advice but is not Lebanon’s judicial authority. Namo asked whether the secretary‑general might see circumstances for seating the de facto Afghan authorities at the UN and whether the new special envoy had begun work in Afghanistan; Farhan reiterated that recognition is decided by member states and that the special envoy had not begun working yet.
