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UN Condemns Israel Land Registration, Warns of Palestinian Dispossession

by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief
written by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed serious concerns regarding a recent decision by the Israeli government to allow land registration in the West Bank. In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), Guterres warned that this move could lead to the dispossession of Palestinian property and may further entrench unlawful Israeli control over land in the area. He urged Israel to reverse these measures and emphasized that the only viable solution for lasting peace is a negotiated two-state solution in compliance with international law.

Guterres’s comments come in light of the Israeli government’s approval of land registration, which is the first of its kind since 1967. This decision was announced by Justice Minister Yariv Levin, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, and Defense Minister Israel Katz. The approval is seen as part of a broader strategy to streamline property acquisition for Jewish Israelis in areas classified as A and B under the Oslo Accords.

In the past week, Guterres has been vocal about his criticism of Israeli policies, particularly regarding land and settlement issues. On February 9, he condemned similar actions in the West Bank, reiterating his stance that all Israeli settlements in the region violate international law. The timing of this latest announcement, less than a week after Katz and Smotrich outlined new policies to facilitate property acquisitions, has drawn international scrutiny.

Details of the Land Registration Decision

The Israeli government’s land registration initiative marks a significant policy shift. This decision allows Israelis to officially register land in the West Bank, a move that many notice as a step toward further annexation of territory. Critics argue that this not only threatens Palestinian land rights but also undermines the potential for future peace negotiations.

International Reactions and Implications

Reactions to the Israeli government’s announcement have been swift and critical, with various international leaders and organizations expressing their concerns. Notably, the Trump administration had previously voiced its disapproval of similar policies, highlighting the contentious nature of Israeli settlement expansion. Guterres’s remarks underscore a growing unease regarding the potential for escalating tensions in the region as a result of such policies.

Despite the backlash, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appears confident that these measures will not face significant opposition from the current U.S. Administration. This confidence raises questions about the long-term implications for U.S.-Israel relations and the broader Middle East peace process.

What Comes Next?

The international community is closely monitoring the developments following this decision. Future actions by the Israeli government, including any further expansion of settlement policies, will likely influence diplomatic relations and negotiations in the region. As tensions rise, the call for dialogue and a peaceful resolution remains critical.

In light of these developments, it is essential for stakeholders on all sides to engage in constructive dialogue aimed at achieving a lasting peace. The situation in the West Bank remains fluid, and continued scrutiny by international observers may play a crucial role in shaping the future landscape of Israeli-Palestinian relations.

We invite readers to share their thoughts on this issue. What do you suppose the implications are for peace in the region? Share your comments below.

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News

UN Condemns Israel’s West Bank Land Grab | Palestinian Territory Dispute

by James Carter Senior News Editor
written by James Carter Senior News Editor

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has strongly condemned Israel’s recent decision to advance land registration procedures in Area C of the occupied West Bank, a move widely seen as a step towards the formal annexation of Palestinian territory. The February 15th decision, following a prior cabinet decision in May 2025, has sparked international concern over its potential to dispossess Palestinians and further erode prospects for a two-state solution.

Guterres’s spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, stated during a press conference that the measures are “not only destabilizing but… unlawful,” echoing a previous determination by the International Court of Justice regarding Israel’s presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory. The move allows for the registration of Palestinian land as “state property,” effectively expanding Israeli control over the area and hindering Palestinian development.

The Israeli government approved the proposal, with Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, Justice Minister Yariv Levin and Defense Minister Israel Katz reportedly submitting the initiative, according to Israel’s public broadcaster. This action has been met with condemnation from Palestinian officials, who view it as a prelude to the de facto annexation of large portions of the West Bank, undermining the internationally endorsed two-state solution.

“The current trajectory on the ground is eroding the prospect for the two-State solution,” Dujarric emphasized, relaying Guterres’s call for Israel to “immediately reverse these measures.” The Secretary-General reiterated that Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and associated infrastructure have “no legal validity” and constitute a “flagrant violation of international law” and relevant UN resolutions, as reported by UN News.

Expanding Israeli Control in Area C

Area C of the West Bank, comprising approximately 60% of the territory, is under full Israeli military control. According to the Al Jazeera, the new land registration procedures aim to formalize Israeli control over this area, potentially paving the way for increased settlement construction and restrictions on Palestinian access to land and resources.

Palestinian officials fear the move will lead to widespread displacement and further fragment the West Bank, making the establishment of a viable Palestinian state increasingly difficult. The two-state solution, which envisions an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel, has been a cornerstone of international efforts to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

International Law and UN Resolutions

The UN’s position on Israeli settlements is clear: they are illegal under international law, including relevant Security Council resolutions. The International Court of Justice has also affirmed the illegality of Israel’s presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory. Despite these rulings, settlement activity has continued for decades, with successive Israeli governments expanding existing settlements and approving new construction. As noted in a statement from the UN Secretary-General, reported by the UN Press, these actions are not only unlawful but also destabilizing to the region.

Guterres has urged all parties to prioritize a negotiated two-state solution, in line with relevant Security Council resolutions and international law. He emphasized that this remains the “only path to lasting peace” for Israelis and Palestinians.

What Comes Next?

The international community is closely monitoring the situation in the West Bank, and further diplomatic efforts are expected to address the escalating tensions. The implementation of the new land registration procedures will likely face legal challenges, both domestically within Israel and internationally. The coming weeks and months will be critical in determining whether Israel reverses course or continues to expand its control over the occupied West Bank, further jeopardizing the prospects for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

What are your thoughts on the UN’s response to this situation? Share your comments below and help us continue the conversation.

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world

Beyond New START: U.S. Modernization, Russia & China Negotiations, and the Future of Nuclear Arms Control

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor
written by Omar El Sayed - World Editor

Nuclear Arms Control at a Crossroads: US Strategy Shifts After Treaty expiration

Table of Contents

Washington – The expiration of the New START treaty last week has triggered a reassessment of United States nuclear policy, with officials signaling a potential shift towards increased modernization and a more assertive posture. This comes amidst growing concerns over the nuclear capabilities of both Russia and China, prompting debate over future arms control negotiations and the need for a stronger deterrent. The evolving landscape of nuclear strategy is now firmly in focus.

New START’s Demise and the Path Forward

Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Thomas DiNanno, speaking at the United Nations Conference on Disarmament in geneva last Friday, outlined the administration’s intentions. He stated the US will proceed with planned nuclear modernization programs and maintain a readily available reserve of approximately 1,900 stored nuclear warheads, prepared for deployment if directed by the President. This includes potential expansion of forces and the progress of new, theater-range nuclear systems.

Former President Trump, in a recent social media post, criticized the New START treaty as “badly negotiated” and suggested pursuing a “new, improved, and modernized” agreement. This echoes broader concerns about treaty limitations and verification challenges in a rapidly changing geopolitical habitat.

The Challenge of a Multi-Polar Nuclear World

Negotiations for any future treaty are complex by the involvement of multiple nuclear powers. While the US insists China must participate,Beijing has thus far declined to discuss it’s nuclear arsenal. Russia, in turn, has indicated it would only consider talks with China if the United Kingdom and France were also included, creating a complex diplomatic puzzle.

Experts suggest a parallel negotiation strategy,addressing issues with Russia and china separately. Rose Gottemoeller, former lead US negotiator for New START and currently a lecturer at Stanford University, advocated for continuing established limitations with Russia while simultaneously seeking risk reduction and transparency with China. She emphasized the importance of establishing communication channels and hotlines with China as a first step.

Key Perspectives from Senate Testimony

Testimony before the Senate Armed Services Committee last week revealed differing opinions on the optimal path forward. Retired-Admiral Charles A. Richard, former commander of U.S. Strategic command, echoed Gottemoeller’s stance on engaging China through confidence-building measures and establishing clearer operating protocols. He stresses the necessity of responsible operation of such powerful weapons systems for the benefit of all nations.

A comparison of viewpoints is summarized below:

Outlook Key Proposal
Rose Gottemoeller Parallel negotiations with Russia and China, focusing on existing limitations with Russia and risk reduction with China.
Ret.-Adm. Charles A. Richard Engage China through confidence-building and transparency,prioritizing responsible operation of nuclear systems.
Former President Trump Negotiate a new, modernized treaty, implying a departure from existing frameworks.

Modernization and Deterrence

Both Gottemoeller and Richard agreed on the need for the US to bolster its nuclear capabilities in response to the rising threat from Russia and China. Gottemoeller called for “judicious choices” balancing nuclear modernization with other defense priorities, including conventional forces and cybersecurity. Richard was more direct, advocating for immediate actions such as uploading warheads to intercontinental ballistic missiles and reactivating unused launch tubes on submarines.

Concerns have also been raised about potential violations of nuclear testing moratoria by both Russia and China.US officials revealed evidence suggesting both countries have conducted nuclear explosive tests, employing methods to conceal their activities.However, Senator Jacky Rosen highlighted the advancements in US stockpile assessment capabilities, suggesting that resuming explosive testing is unneeded, with sub-critical experiments and computer modeling providing sufficient data to ensure the effectiveness of the US nuclear arsenal.The National Nuclear Security administration continues to invest in these capabilities.

The Enduring Principle of Deterrence

Despite the complexities, experts emphasize the enduring importance of nuclear deterrence.Gottemoeller noted that stable deterrence relies on predictability, achieved through negotiated restraints, while Richard highlighted its success in preventing large-scale conflict for over six decades.

Ultimately, the goal remains to prevent nuclear war.As Admiral Richard aptly pointed out, the original purpose of these weapons was not to be used in conflict, but to deter it. This has remained true since their initial development during World War II.

What steps do you believe are most critical to maintaining global nuclear stability in the coming years? How can the US balance the need for modernization with the pursuit of arms control agreements?

How will U.S.nuclear modernization affect future arms control negotiations with Russia and China?

Beyond New START: U.S. Modernization, Russia & China Negotiations, and the Future of Nuclear Arms Control

The New START Treaty, the last remaining major nuclear arms control agreement between the United States and Russia, faces an uncertain future. While extended to 2026, the geopolitical landscape has dramatically shifted, demanding a re-evaluation of strategic approaches to nuclear deterrence and arms control. This necessitates looking “Beyond New START” – considering U.S. modernization efforts, the evolving roles of Russia and China, and potential pathways for future negotiations.

U.S. Nuclear Modernization: A Necessary Evolution or Escalatory Move?

The united States is currently undertaking a extensive modernization of its nuclear triad – land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), and strategic bombers. This program, estimated to cost trillions of dollars, aims to replace aging systems with more advanced technologies.

Key components of this modernization include:

* Ground Based Strategic Deterrent (GBSD): Replacing the minuteman III ICBMs.

* Columbia-class Submarines: Successors to the Ohio-class, providing a secure second-strike capability.

* B-21 Raider: A next-generation stealth bomber designed to penetrate advanced air defenses.

Critics argue this modernization fuels a new arms race, especially with Russia and China. proponents maintain it’s essential for maintaining a credible deterrent in a world with increasingly sophisticated threats and ensuring the reliability of the U.S. nuclear arsenal. The debate centers on whether modernization is a responsible update or an escalatory move that undermines stability. the advancement of low-yield nuclear weapons,intended to fill perceived gaps in deterrence,also adds complexity to this discussion.

Russia’s Position: Compliance, Concerns, and Strategic Shifts

Russia’s stance on arms control has become increasingly complex as the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. While formally complying with New START, russia has suspended participation in the treaty’s inspection regime, citing concerns about U.S. actions and the broader geopolitical context.

Key russian concerns include:

* U.S. Missile defense: Russia views U.S. missile defense systems in Europe and Asia as a threat to its strategic deterrent.

* NATO Expansion: The eastward expansion of NATO is perceived as encroaching on Russia’s sphere of influence.

* Conventional Forces Imbalance: Russia argues that the U.S. and NATO maintain a meaningful advantage in conventional military capabilities, necessitating a reliance on nuclear weapons for deterrence.

Russia has also signaled its intention to develop and deploy new nuclear weapons systems, including hypersonic glide vehicles and advanced ballistic missiles, further complicating the arms control landscape. The future of Russian engagement in arms control hinges on resolving these underlying security concerns.

The China Factor: A Tripartite Challenge

China’s growing nuclear arsenal presents a significant challenge to existing arms control frameworks. Unlike the U.S. and Russia,China has historically maintained a “no first use” policy and a relatively small nuclear force. However, recent estimates suggest China is rapidly expanding its nuclear capabilities, including:

* ICBM Development: Increasing the number and sophistication of its land-based ICBMs.

* SLBM expansion: developing and deploying new Jin-class submarines capable of launching ballistic missiles.

* Hypersonic Weaponry: Investing heavily in the development of hypersonic glide vehicles.

The U.S. has repeatedly called for China to join trilateral arms control negotiations, but China has resisted, arguing that its nuclear arsenal is significantly smaller than those of the U.S. and Russia. Bringing China to the table is crucial for establishing a more stable and enduring arms control regime. The lack of clarity surrounding China’s nuclear doctrine and intentions further complicates negotiations.

Potential Pathways Forward: Beyond bilateralism

The customary bilateral approach to arms control, focused solely on the U.S.and Russia, is no longer sufficient. A new approach is needed that addresses the evolving strategic landscape and incorporates China. Several potential pathways forward exist:

  1. Trilateral Negotiations: Initiating negotiations involving the U.S., Russia, and China to establish common principles and limits on nuclear weapons. This is the most challenging but perhaps most rewarding path.
  2. **
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News

Trump’s Board of Peace plan stirs support for the United Nations

by James Carter Senior News Editor
written by James Carter Senior News Editor

Okay, here’s a breakdown of the key points from the provided text, focusing on Trump’s “Board of Peace” initiative and the international reaction to it:

Main Idea:

Donald Trump’s proposed “Board of peace” aimed at resolving global conflicts, initially framed around the Gaza situation, has largely been met with skepticism and rejection from major international players, including key members of the UN Security Council. The initiative’s scope broadened substantially, alienating potential supporters.

Key Details:

* Original focus: The Board was initially presented as a way to address the conflict in Gaza.
* Expanded Mandate: Trump subsequently suggested a much broader mandate for the Board, potentially replacing the UN’s role in international peace and security. This wider scope included his idea of potentially “replacing” the U.N.
* UN Rejection: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reaffirmed that the UN Security Council holds the sole legal authority for binding decisions on peace and security.
* Lack of Support from Major Powers: China,France,Russia,and the United Kingdom (the other permanent members of the Security Council) haven’t signed on. Neither have economic powers like Germany and Japan.
* Reasons for Opposition:

* The broadened mandate made the Board seem like a “Trump fan club,” deterring potential supporters.
* Countries who were interested in helping with Gaza were turned off by the expansion of the board.
* Coincidental Proposals: The rollout of the Board coincided with other controversial Trump proposals, like attempting to purchase Greenland and threatening to punish NATO allies.
* Critic’s View: Richard Gowan of the International Crisis Group believes the Board’s focus shoudl have remained solely on Gaza to attract more support.

In essence, the article portrays Trump’s “Board of Peace” as a largely unsuccessful diplomatic effort, hampered by its evolving scope, controversial timing,

How did Trump’s Board of Peace plan influence the renewed support for and revitalization of UN diplomacy?

Table of Contents

Trump’s Board of Peace Plan & The Resurgence of UN Diplomacy

The unexpected shift in geopolitical strategy initiated by former President Donald Trump’s “Board of Peace” – a privately funded initiative focused on direct negotiations in conflict zones – has yielded a surprising outcome: renewed and significant support for the United Nations. Initially viewed wiht skepticism by many international relations experts, the board’s approach, while unconventional, appears to have inadvertently highlighted the critical need for a robust, multilateral association like the UN to provide legitimacy and long-term stability to peace processes.

The Board of Peace: A Disruptive Force

Launched in late 2024, the board of Peace, comprised of business leaders and former diplomats hand-picked by Trump, bypassed conventional diplomatic channels. Its core strategy involved facilitating direct talks between warring factions, frequently enough in neutral locations and with a focus on economic incentives. Early engagements centered on the protracted conflicts in Yemen and Sudan, areas where UN-led peace efforts had stalled.

The Board’s initial successes – brokering temporary ceasefires and establishing preliminary economic agreements – garnered attention. However, critics pointed to the lack of clarity, the potential for biased negotiations favoring specific economic interests, and the absence of a broader political framework. Concerns were raised about the long-term sustainability of agreements reached outside the UN system.

Why the UN is Back in the Spotlight

Despite the Board’s initial gains, the limitations of its approach quickly became apparent. several key issues emerged:

* Lack of International Legitimacy: Agreements reached without UN oversight struggled to gain widespread international acceptance, hindering the flow of aid and investment necesary for reconstruction.

* Enforcement Challenges: The Board lacked the authority to enforce its agreements, relying instead on the goodwill of the parties involved. This proved insufficient in several instances, leading to renewed violence.

* Coordination Gaps: The Board’s independent operation created friction with existing UN peacekeeping missions and humanitarian efforts, leading to duplication of efforts and conflicting priorities.

These challenges underscored the vital role the UN plays in providing a universally recognized framework for peacebuilding. The Board’s experience demonstrated that while private initiatives can facilitate initial dialog, lasting peace requires the legitimacy, enforcement mechanisms, and coordinating power of an international body like the UN.

Increased Funding and Political Capital for the UN

The perceived shortcomings of the Board of Peace have triggered a wave of renewed support for the UN. Several key developments illustrate this trend:

* Increased Member State Contributions: In December 2025, a record number of UN member states pledged increased financial contributions to the organization’s peacekeeping and advancement programs. The United States, despite previous threats to reduce its funding, announced a restoration of its full assessed contribution.

* Revitalized Security Council Engagement: The UN Security Council has seen a resurgence in activity, with increased engagement on conflict resolution efforts in several regions, including Ukraine, Myanmar, and the Sahel.

* Strengthened UN Mediation Efforts: The UN Secretary-General has appointed several high-profile special envoys to lead mediation efforts in conflict zones, building on the initial openings created by the Board of Peace but operating within the established UN framework.

* Focus on Lasting development goals: There’s a renewed emphasis on addressing the root causes of conflict through the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), recognizing that poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunity are major drivers of instability.

The Trump Factor: An Unintended Legacy?

Ironically, the Board of Peace, conceived as an choice to the UN, has inadvertently strengthened the organization’s position.While Trump’s supporters may view the Board as a pragmatic attempt to break through diplomatic gridlock, the broader international community appears to have interpreted its limitations as a reaffirmation of the UN’s indispensable role.

The situation highlights a key dynamic in international relations: the enduring need for multilateralism, even in an era of rising nationalism and geopolitical competition. The Board’s actions served as a real-world case study, demonstrating the limitations of unilateral approaches and the enduring value of a rules-based international order.

Case Study: Yemen – From Ceasefire to Comprehensive peace Talks

The situation in Yemen provides a compelling exmaple of this dynamic. The Board of Peace brokered a temporary ceasefire between the warring parties in early 2025. However,the ceasefire quickly unraveled due to a lack of progress on key political issues,such as power-sharing and the status of Houthi rebels.

It was only when the UN Special Envoy for Yemen, working in coordination with regional actors, stepped in to facilitate comprehensive peace talks – building on the initial ceasefire but addressing the underlying political issues – that a more sustainable path towards peace emerged. The UN-led talks, which are ongoing as of January 2026, have yielded significant progress on a framework for a transitional government and a roadmap for long-term stability.

The Future of UN Diplomacy

The resurgence of support for the UN is not without its challenges. The organization remains hampered by bureaucratic inefficiencies, political divisions, and a lack of resources. However, the lessons learned from the Board of Peace experience have created a window of opportunity for reform and revitalization.

key areas for betterment include:

* Strengthening UN Mediation Capacity: Investing in training and resources for UN mediators to enhance their ability to facilitate complex peace negotiations.

*

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