Paris talks seek to bolster Lebanese army as UN mission's mandate nears end
European and Arab military chiefs met in Paris to discuss strengthening Lebanon's armed forces before the UN peacekeeping mission's mandate expires at year's end, amid fears of renewed Israeli military action in southern Lebanon.
Military leaders from European and Arab nations gathered in Paris on Thursday to discuss ways to reinforce Lebanon's armed forces, which have long struggled with limited capabilities. The talks come as the mandate of the United Nations peacekeeping mission in southern Lebanon, UNIFIL, is set to expire at the end of this year, raising concerns that Israel could launch a renewed military campaign in the area once the mission departs.
Fresh strikes reported in Yemen
Yemen's Houthi movement said on Wednesday that Saudi Arabia had carried out new air strikes. Saudi authorities accused the Houthis of a "cowardly" attack targeting the Islamic holy city of Mecca, an allegation the group has rejected.
Building collapse in Gaza
In Gaza, rescue teams continued searching through the rubble of a collapsed apartment block, with dozens of people still unaccounted for. At least eight people, including children, were confirmed killed in the collapse.
Israel and Morocco to open embassies
Israel and Morocco have agreed to deepen their diplomatic relationship and establish embassies in each other's countries, according to a statement from Israel's foreign ministry.
