Former Iraqi President Barham Ahmed Salih has been elected by the UN General Assembly as the next High Commissioner for Refugees, beginning a five-year term on 1 January 2026.
Salih becomes the first official from the Middle East to hold the post in nearly 75 years. His appointment was welcomed by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who also thanked outgoing commissioner Filippo Grandi for his leadership in supporting refugees, displaced persons, and stateless individuals.
The UN highlighted Salih’s extensive experience in politics and diplomacy. He played a key role in Iraq’s reconstruction following 2003, including negotiating the International Compact with Iraq alongside the United Nations and the World Bank.
Grandi praised Salih’s election, noting that his decades of public service, steady leadership, and diplomatic experience equip him to guide UNHCR amid escalating global displacement and complex humanitarian challenges. “Coming from a country recently marked by conflict and displacement, he has first-hand insight into the difficulties facing many refugees today,” Grandi added.
Salih’s tenure begins at a time when UNHCR continues to respond to crises affecting millions worldwide, with a focus on protecting vulnerable populations and coordinating international humanitarian assistance.
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Türkiye is reportedly in discussions to join the defence alliance between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, a strategic move that could reshape security dynamics in the Middle East and South Asia.
The foreign ministries of Armenia and Iran held political consultations in Yerevan, according to official statements.
Storm Goretti has brought gale-force winds, heavy snow and freezing temperatures to parts of northern Europe, causing widespread power outages, flight cancellations and major transport disruption.
Foreign Minister of Türkiye, Hakan Fidan, stresses importance of public order in Syria, deepening Türkiye-Indonesia cooperation, discusses Gaza and regional developments
Snow and ice stalled travellers in northwest Europe on Wednesday, forcing around a thousand to spend the night in Amsterdam's Schiphol airport but delighting others who set out to explore a snow-blanketed Paris on sledges and skis.
U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that Iran could face a strong response from the United States if its authorities kill protesters amid ongoing unrest.
Iran is now facing a near‑total internet blackout as anti-government protests sweep the country. Major cities including Tehran have seen connectivity drop sharply, leaving millions of residents isolated from online communication.
New York City parents could soon have access to free childcare for two-year-old children following a joint announcement made by Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Governor Kathy Hochul on Thursday (8 January).
Tens of thousands of Iranians have taken to the streets in Tehran and across at least 28 cities in a wave of anti-government demonstrations, now entering their twelfth day.
A South Korean court hearing the case of former President Yoon Suk Yeol on charges of insurrection postponed the sentencing request until next week after a lengthy session. This case could potentially lead to a death penalty verdict for Yoon due to his failed attempt to impose martial law in 2024.
Türkiye is reportedly in discussions to join the defence alliance between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, a strategic move that could reshape security dynamics in the Middle East and South Asia.
The United Nations has described footage of the fatal ICE shooting in Minneapolis as deeply disturbing, urging a thorough investigation and reaffirming the right to peaceful protest.
Italy aims to begin testing a delayed cable car project in January as it seeks to ease transport pressure at the Milan–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, despite the challenges of construction in mountainous terrain.
Storm Goretti has brought gale-force winds, heavy snow and freezing temperatures to parts of northern Europe, causing widespread power outages, flight cancellations and major transport disruption.
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