Published on: 2026-04-17
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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Main news of the day at the UN and in the world: 80th anniversary of the International Court of the UN, ceasefire in the Middle East, release of prisoners in Myanmar, death of Rohingya refugees at sea, hunger in Haiti.
United Nations International Court – 80 years
Speaking on Friday in The Hague at an event dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the International Court, UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated that the world stands at a “moment of choice,” and called on states to reaffirm their commitment to international law. The UN chief recalled that the creation of the Court was a response to the consequences of World War II and a symbol of the international community’s aspiration to replace the “law of force” with the “force of law.” Guterres warned that international law norms are increasingly being violated and urged countries to choose to strengthen the legal system.
Middle East
At midnight Beirut time, an agreement on a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon came into force. At the same time on Friday, Iran announced the opening of the Strait of Hormuz. The UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for the full restoration of freedom of navigation in the region. The UN chief also welcomed the agreement between Israel and Lebanon and urged the parties to strictly observe it, expressing hope that the truce would pave the way for further negotiations.
Amnesty in Myanmar
The UN chief has taken note of the report on the release of Myanmar’s ex-president Win Myint. He was granted amnesty along with thousands of other prisoners. Authorities also announced the reduction of sentences and the replacement of death penalties with life imprisonment. António Guterres emphasized the need to intensify efforts for the prompt release of all arbitrarily detained persons, including government adviser Aung San Suu Kyi. On Friday, the UN also reported that nearly 900 Rohingya refugees died at sea in 2025 while trying to reach Malaysia and Indonesia from Myanmar and Bangladesh.This is the highest mortality rate on all sea routes used by refugees and migrants.
Hunger in Haiti
In a new report by the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), it is reported that almost six million people in Haiti — more than half of the country’s population — are undernourished. At the same time, about 1.8 million have exhausted their last reserves and cannot meet even basic food needs. Last year, despite difficult working conditions, the WFP, together with the government and partners, assisted 2.7 million people. To continue humanitarian operations over the next 12 months, the WFP requires 332 million dollars. The organization is calling on donors to allocate the necessary funds.
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