Hey there, global news enthusiasts! 🌍 Saudi Arabia is sending out a major SOS at the World Economic Forum (WEF) special meeting in Riyadh. They’re warning that the ongoing Gaza conflict could shake up the world's economic vibes—and that’s not chill for anyone. 😬
Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed al-Jadaan didn't mince words. At one of the first panel discussions, he said conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine, and elsewhere are putting \"a lot of pressure\" on the economic mood. \"I think cool-headed countries and leaders and people need to prevail,\" al-Jadaan urged. \"The region needs stability.\" ✌️
This summit isn't your average meetup. Heavy hitters like U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Palestinian leaders, and other top officials trying to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas are all in the house. 🏛️ Everyone's eyes are on finding a path to peace and, fingers crossed, easing global tensions.
The Gaza conflict, which kicked off on October 7 last year, has had devastating effects. Over 30,000 Palestinians have lost their lives, with women and children making up the majority. 😢 According to Gaza's Ministry of Health, at least 75,000 people have been injured—that's about four out of every 100 people in Gaza!
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas made a heartfelt appeal in Riyadh. He believes the U.S. \"is the only country capable\" of stopping Israel's planned invasion of Rafah city in southern Gaza. \"We appeal to the United States of America to ask Israel to stop the Rafah operation,\" Abbas said, warning it could become \"the biggest disaster in the history of the Palestinian people.\"
Saudi Planning Minister Faisal al-Ibrahim echoed the urgency. He mentioned that the world is \"walking a tightrope right now, trying to balance security and prosperity.\" One misstep could seriously \"exacerbate our challenges.\" 🎢
Even WEF President Borge Brende chimed in with a glimmer of hope. He noted \"some new momentum\" in talks about hostages and a \"possible way out of the impasse we are faced with in Gaza.\"
Meanwhile, Hamas announced they're studying Israel's latest counter-proposal regarding a potential ceasefire. 🤞 Media reports say that Egypt, playing the mediator, is trying to kickstart stalled negotiations.
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan believes that only \"a credible, irreversible path to a Palestinian state\" will prevent the world from facing \"this same situation two, three, four years down the line.\" Let's hope the leaders can find that path soon! ✨
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
