MIDDLE EAST LIVE 17 March: Crisis impact ripples across region

17/03/2026 0

The crisis in the Middle East continues, with strikes and counterstrikes reported across the region as the humanitarian toll rises. UN agencies warn that health systems are under growing strain, children are increasingly affected by violence and displacement, and hundreds of thousands have been forced from their homes – especially in Lebanon. Despite mounting logistical and security challenges, UN agencies are scaling up emergency aid. Stay with us for live updates from across the UN system. App users can follow coverage here.

Deepfakes, voice cloning and weaponised AI: Global wake-up call to organised fraud

17/03/2026 0

The Sawyers from Australia were never really interested in volatile investing. As their retirement age approached, the idea of a low-risk investment for their pension seemed attractive. But one day, after clicking on a seemingly legitimate online advert that offered a reasonable risk-averse plan, they unlocked a process that would lead them to lose over $2.5 million.

Middle East war’s ‘spiral of conflict’ drives mounting civilian toll

16/03/2026 0

The widening war in the Middle East and its growing impact on civilians came under scrutiny at the UN in Geneva on Monday, as independent experts briefing the Human Rights Council warned of escalating violence following the onset of Israeli and US strikes on Iran and counterstrikes by Tehran and allied groups.

MIDDLE EAST LIVE 16 March: UN scales up aid as crisis deepens into third week

16/03/2026 0

The crisis in the Middle East has entered its third week, with fighting continuing across the region and humanitarian needs rising. Oil prices remain near $100 a barrel, while shipping disruptions and temporary flight suspensions are affecting travel and supply chains. Despite mounting logistical and security challenges, UN agencies are scaling up emergency aid, warning that displacement, food insecurity and pressure on health systems are growing as the conflict’s impact spreads. Stay with us for live updates from across the UN system. App users can follow coverage here.