UNGA Palestine resolution
The UN General Assembly has adopted a resolution calling on the International Court of Justice to comment on Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories. The resolution seeks an advisory opinion on the legal consequences of Israel’s occupation, settlement activity and annexation of Palestinian territories. It also seeks opinion on Tel Aviv's measures aimed at changing the demographic composition and the status of al-Quds. The US, Canada, Germany and Britain were among Western states that voted against the UN resolution. Russia and China voted in favor. The Palestinian ambassador to the UN has hailed the countries backing the resolution for standing up against Israel.
Iran military drills
The Iranian army holds the second day of its large-scale military exercises in the south of the country. Different units of the army are involved in the maneuvers. Spokesman of the drills, Brigadier General Alireza Sheikh, told Press TV that the exercises serve deterrence and represent the army’s self-reliance.
New Year festivities
Millions across the world are celebrating the arrival of 2023 by fireworks and other festivities. Firework displays took place at the iconic Sky Tower in New Zealand’s largest city of Auckland. Also in Australia, more than 7,000 fireworks were launched from the top of the Sydney Harbor Bridge. Another 2,000 were fired from the nearby Opera House along with musical celebrations. The two Koreas have also rung in the New Year. India is up next to usher in 2023 soon. Samoa, a small pacific island, was the first country to say goodbye to 2022 and enter the New Year.