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Is Turkey uniquely positioned to mediate between Palestinians and Israel?

Istanbul, Turkey – The war on Gaza has seen Turkey step forward as a potential mediator to not only end Israel’s bombardment of the Palestinian enclave, but also bring lasting peace to one of the world’s most intractable conflicts.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has led his country’s bid, keen to promote Turkey as a global player and replicate Ankara’s success in mediating between Ukraine and its invader, Russia, to strike a deal for Kyiv to export grain.

Eastern Libya’s House of Representatives Voices Gaza Concerns in Angolan Assembly

During the 147th General Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union in Angola, the delegation from the House of Representatives, the parliamentary government based in Eastern Libya and led by the First Deputy Speaker, emphasized the urgent humanitarian crises in Gaza. Representing the Arab Geopolitical Group, they advocated for swift intervention against ongoing human rights infringements. Additionally, the assembly deliberated on roles within the Inter-Parliamentary Union and reflected on points from their previous meeting in Bahrain.

During the 147th General Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union in Angola, the delegation from the House of Representatives, the parliamentary government based in Eastern Libya and led by the First Deputy Speaker, emphasized the urgent humanitarian crises in Gaza. Representing the Arab Geopolitical Group, they advocated for swift intervention against ongoing human rights infringements. Additionally, the assembly deliberated on roles within the Inter-Parliamentary Union and reflected on points from their previous meeting in Bahrain.

Planting trees is one of the easiest way to contribute to biodiversity. So plant trees and contribute to biodiversity by enhancing ecosystems.

Planting trees is one of the easiest way to contribute to biodiversity. So plant trees and contribute to biodiversity by enhancing ecosystems. Following are best months to plant different fruit trees.

Olive:** March – April

Apples:** January – March

Plums:** January – mid-March

Palm Trees:** April – May

Pears:** January – March

Grapes:** January – February

Pomegranates:** January – February

Oranges:** March

Almonds:** January – March

Quince:** January – March

Apricots:** January – February

Peaches:** January – February

Lemon:** March

Figs:** January – mid-March

Libya floods: The flawed response that increased Derna death toll

The devastating floods which killed thousands in eastern Libya a month ago were the result of a destructive force of nature, but BBC Arabic has uncovered evidence that mismanagement by the local authorities led to many deaths that could have been prevented.

There are three main accusations:

Firstly, residents of Derna, the hardest-hit town, say they were told to stay at home rather than being evacuated even though it was known that Storm Daniel was coming.

Secondly, local and regional authorities are accused of failing to address the danger posed by the dams on the Derna riverbed, which runs through the town. Two dams spanning the Derna valley inland from the city burst on 11 September, causing the catastrophic flooding.

Finally, the authorities are accused of hindering the aid effort in the days immediately after the tragedy.

Anger in Derna escalated into protests on 18 September and the home of the mayor – who later resigned – was subsequently burned down.

The death toll remains unknown, with many bodies believed to have been washed out to sea. At least 4,000 people have been confirmed dead and another 10,000 reported missing in a town with a population of about 90,000.

Evacuation failings

Since the fall of long-time Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, the country has been divided between a UN-backed government in the capital, Tripoli, and a rival authority backed by military strongman General Khalifa Haftar, whose forces control eastern Libya, including Derna.

Ahead of the arrival of Storm Daniel, various bodies in the east held emergency meetings and subsequently issued instructions to the region’s residents.

These generally focused on the evacuation of coastal and low-lying areas in Derna, and stay-at-home orders for other parts of the city and wider region.

But residents have told BBC Arabic that evacuation efforts were inadequate in a number of respects:

  • they focused on the wrong part of the city
  • the warnings did not reach many of the people that needed to hear them
  • no sufficient provision was made for where evacuated people should shelter
  • and there were various conflicting stay-at-home orders and curfews.

Saif al-Islam Gaddafi’s Representatives Address UN Concerns, Urge Action on Libya’s Electoral Process.

The representatives of Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, son of Libya’s former leader Muammar Gaddafi, have released a statement. They’re addressing the UN’s concerns about Libya’s electoral rules and the delayed creation of a significant committee to tackle these issues.

Here’s a breakdown of their points:

1. **Electoral Laws Debate**: The UN is questioning specific sections of the electoral laws, especially Article No. 12. This rule insists on a follow-up election, even if a candidate garners a full majority in the initial round, raising eyebrows about its necessity.

2. **Continuous Interim Governments**: There’s apprehension that Libya might get stuck in a loop of temporary governments, hindering long-term stability.

3. **Committee Formation Stalled**: Despite prior assurances, the UN hasn’t established the expected committee meant to assess electoral concerns and consider a temporary governing body’s introduction.

4. **Previous Committee Success**: They point to the Committee of 75, steered by Stephanie Williams, as a precedent of an accepted initiative, backed by numerous parties, including the incumbent government.

5. **Two Possible Directions**: Gaddafi’s team urges the UN to either greenlight the current electoral guidelines, flaws and all, or initiate the high-tier committee to work on solutions.

6. **Need for Prompt Action**: There’s a strong admonition that stagnation isn’t an option, and they won’t stand by a status quo approach.

7. **Staking Claim in Tripoli**: Gaddafi’s political affiliates have made their presence felt in Tripoli, indicating their intent to actively participate in shaping Libya’s future.

In essence, the message sheds light on the intricate interplay and challenges in Libyan politics, with various local and international players aiming to steer the nation towards peace and stability.

Western Libya Spearheads Sports Advancements.

#TRIPOLI#GNU#LIBYA

Abdel Shafie Al-Juwaifi, the Sports Minister from Libya’s Western region-based Unity Government, has championed the development of sports infrastructure in #Sabratha. Celebrating the inauguration of the Al-Wefaq Club and a significant portion of the Al-Talil Beach stadiums, these endeavors underscore the club’s growth since its 1984 establishment. In addition, Al-Juwaifi sanctioned the next phase for the stadium’s expansion. Club officials have voiced their appreciation for the unparalleled support from the Unity_Government. Expanding his outreach, Al-Juwaifi also launched the Umm Al-Rabea Stadium in #Sorman. This commitment to sports is further highlighted by plans for a new group games facility, aligned with Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Al-Dubaiba’s vision from the Western Unity Government.

What is the Gaza Strip & who controls it ?

What is the Gaza Strip & who controls it ?

The Gaza Strip has been the epicenter of heavy bombardment for more than a week after Israel launched retaliatory airstrikes for the unprecedented terror attack by Palestinian militant group Hamas on Oct. 7.

The enclave — a narrow strip of land between Israel and Egypt, next to the Mediterranean Sea — is home to roughly 2.3 million Palestinians and is described as one of the most densely populated places on Earth. The 140-square-mile region is roughly the size of Philadelphia.

The majority of those who live in Gaza are young, with almost 65% of the population under the age of 24

‘World’s largest open-air prison’

Since 2007, Israel has imposed an air, land and sea blockade on the Gaza Strip, saying the move is necessary to safeguard the country from Hamas’ attacks. Gaza is surrounded by concrete walls and barbed wire fences.

Palestinians are prohibited from entering or leaving the territory except in extremely rare cases such as “urgent, life-threatening medical conditions,” according to Israeli human rights group B’Tselem. Foreign citizens are not subjected to the same restrictions. Human rights groups have described it as “the world’s largest open-air prison.”

The Sunken Secrets of Apollonia: A Glimpse into Roman History in Libyan Waters.

Tucked away beneath the waters near the city of Susah in Eastern Libya lie the submerged remnants of the ancient Roman city of Apollonia. Though not a recent discovery, the underwater city continues to captivate historians and divers alike.

Historical Significance:

Apollonia served as the crucial port for Cyrene, one of the shining jewels in the Hellenic world which later rose in prominence during the Roman era. As the gateway to Cyrene, Apollonia was a bustling hub, vital for trade and communication.

Architectural Marvels:

Apollonia’s landscape was dotted with Roman-inspired architecture, showcasing the grandeur of the era. From sprawling villas and bathhouses to a network of roads, the city was a testament to Roman influence and craftsmanship.

Why It Sank:

The hands of time, combined with natural phenomena like tectonic activity and rising sea levels, have caused parts of Apollonia to become submerged. These underwater sections provide a hauntingly beautiful view of a city frozen in time.

A Living Museum:

For those keen on exploring, the sunken parts of Apollonia offer a unique dive into history. With ancient remnants of structures lying beneath the sea, it’s a diver’s dream and a historian’s treasure.

Reflecting on Change:

Beyond its historical allure, Apollonia serves as a poignant reminder of the earth’s ever-changing geographical and environmental landscape.

Misrata Court Announces Controversial Verdict for Former Libyan Education Minister.

In a decision reminiscent of medieval justice, Misrata’s Criminal Court has sentenced Ahmed Ibrahim, the former Education Minister of Libya, to death. Ibrahim, known for his close association with Muammar Gaddafi, has been often criticized for allegedly skewing the Libyan education system in favor of the former dictator.

During the 17th February revolution, while many associated with Gaddafi’s regime fled the country, Ibrahim chose to stay. His decision eventually led to his arrest. Reports suggest that since his detention, he has been held in deplorable conditions and subjected to consistent torture.

The verdict has sparked debates about its fairness and the state of the Libyan justice system, as many advocate for a move away from capital punishment and towards more rehabilitative and restorative forms of justice.

The Al Reda security forces in Tripoli have arrested a seasoned blackmailer.

The Al Reda security forces in Tripoli have arrested a seasoned blackmailer. This individual posed as a wealthy and attractive man on social media platforms, ensnaring various women, both single and in relationships. After engaging them in explicit conversations and obtaining compromising images, he would then extort them for money or force them into other inappropriate activities. The perpetrator has admitted to blackmailing 40 women. Please exercise caution and be stringent when disclosing personal information to anyone online.