Source: United Nations (video statements)
Briefing by Indrika Ratwatte, Acting Assistant-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator (OCHA), on the situation in Ukraine.
Ukraine: Urgent need for renewed diplomatic efforts – DPPA Briefing | United Nations
Source: United Nations (video statements)
Briefing by Kayoko Gotoh, Director for Europe and Central Asia, Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations, on the situation in Ukraine.
Palestine, Lebanon & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (27 July 2026) | United Nations
Source: United Nations (video statements)
Noon briefing by Farhan Haq,
Deputy Spokesman for Secretary-general António Guterres.
Highlights:
– Secretary-general/Cyprus
– Secretary-general/Syria
– West Bank
– Occupied Palestinian Territory
– Lebanon
– Security Council
– Sudan
– Democratic Republic of the Congo
– Rwanda
– League of Arab States
– UN Refugee Agency/Goodwill Ambassador
SECRETARY-GENERAL/CYPRUS
The Secretary-General is currently on his way to Cyprus, where he will meet with the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot leaders, as well as other stakeholders. He will discuss efforts to advance the peace process and support stability on the island, including through the work of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP).
The Secretary-General is expected to return to New York on Wednesday.
SECRETARY-GENERAL/SYRIA
Earlier today, before departing for Cyprus, the Secretary-General met in Amman with Jordan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Ayman Safadi. They discussed regional developments.
The Secretary-General had spent the previous two days in Syria. Before departing Syria, the Secretary-General held a press conference, during which he welcomed recent steps to ease sanctions on Syria and create new opportunities for economic recovery. He stressed, however, that all remaining sanctions should be lifted without delay and emphasized that Syria’s recovery will also require sustained political support, economic engagement and practical assistance from the international community.
During his meetings with President Ahmad Al-Sharaa, Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani and other officials, the Secretary-General welcomed the progress achieved in Syria’s political transition and underscored the importance of sustaining this momentum through inclusive participation, with a view to building a peaceful, stable and prosperous Syria for all Syrians. He reaffirmed the commitment of the United Nations to support the Syrian people and work in close partnership with the Syrian authorities during this important period of transition.
In Damascus, the Secretary-General met with women’s organizations, civil society representatives and members of Syria’s diverse communities. He also met with representatives of the National Transitional Justice Commission, the Missing Persons Commission, the Women’s Peace and Security Commission, the Electoral Commission and the Speaker of Parliament.
In all his meetings, the Secretary-General reaffirmed that we stand ready to assist all efforts to promote accountability, transitional justice, human rights and reconciliation; build confidence among communities; and ensure the meaningful participation of all Syrians: women and men, young people, and all components of Syria’s remarkable and diverse society.
On Saturday, the Secretary-General visited Sednaya Prison. He said that the site stands as a stark reminder of the horrendous oppression under the previous Syrian regime.
Although the Secretary-General had planned to visit the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF), scheduling constraints prevented that visit from taking place. Instead, he met in Damascus with the UNDOF Force Commander, Major General Anita Asmah, as well as the Governor of Quneitra and representatives of local communities.
WEST BANK
The Secretary-General is deeply concerned at the recent announcement by the Israeli authorities of a series of measures in response to recent attacks, including reports of an accelerated process to legalize farm outposts and establish new ones in the occupied West Bank.
The Secretary-General reiterates that all settlements, including outposts, have no legal validity and constitute a flagrant violation of international law. Such settlements remain a major obstacle to the achievement of the two-State solution and a just, lasting and comprehensive peace.
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) expressed their deep alarm concerning the escalation of violence across the West Bank in recent days.
Since Thursday, at least eight Palestinians – including one child – as well as two Israelis have been killed. Many others have been injured.
Homes, mosques, trees and agriculture structures have been set on fire or otherwise vandalized and, in some cases, destroyed. At least 10 Palestinian families have been displaced in the course of the latest violence.
In parallel, Israeli forces have tightened their restrictions on Palestinian movements and access across many areas of the West Bank, preventing thousands of people from reaching essential services, such as emergency medical care and the sources of their livelihoods.
Since the beginning of this year, OCHA has documented more than 1,330 incidents involving Israeli settlers that resulted in casualties, property damage or both.
South Africa: SADC Industrialisation Week OFFICIAL OPENING CLIP 3
Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements)
SADC Industrialisation Week OFFICIAL OPENING CLIP 3
South Africa: SADC Industrialisation Week OFFICIAL OPENING CLIP 2
Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements)
SADC Industrialisation Week OFFICIAL OPENING CLIP 2
South Africa: SADC Industrialisation Week OFFICIAL OPENING – CLIP 1
Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements)
SADC Industrialisation Week OFFICIAL OPENING -CLIP 1
Football for Mental Health: One World, One Game, One Goal
Source: United Nations (video statements)
Football is more than a game—it has the power to inspire, connect and transform lives. Ahead of the FIFA World Cup Final, the United Nations Youth Office convened One World, One Game, One Goal, bringing together young leaders, athletes and partners to explore how the world’s most popular sport can support youth mental health, challenge stigma and build stronger, more inclusive communities. Discover the conversations, ideas and stories that show how football can be a force for positive change on and off the field.
Football for Mental Health: One World, One Game, One Goal | United Nations
Source: United Nations (video statements)
As the world came together for the FIFA World Cup Final, the United Nations Youth Office hosted One World, One Game, One Goal, bringing together young leaders, athletes and partners to celebrate the power of football beyond the pitch. The event highlighted how sport can promote youth mental health, break down stigma, foster inclusion and strengthen communities around the world.
Through inspiring conversations and shared experiences, participants explored how football can unite people, empower young voices and drive positive social change.
Ukraine: UN Calls for Ceasefire as Violence Escalates
Source: United Nations (video statements)
The Security Council met to discuss the escalating conflict in Ukraine following intensified Russian attacks. UN officials warned that more than 170 civilians have reportedly been killed and over 1,000 injured since the Council’s last briefing on 9 July, urging all parties to protect civilians, uphold international law and resume dialogue toward an immediate, full and unconditional ceasefire.
Preventing the spread of Ebola
Source: United Nations (video statements)
Amongst reports that the current Ebola epidemics ranges amongst the deadliest outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo,
humanitarian workers continue to sensitize communities in Bunia, Ituri, to prevent further spread and rumours.