UN Daily Press Briefing: Afghanistan, Syria, Gaza, Ukraine & Global Rule of Law (January 26, 2026)

Global Rule of Law Under Threat

• ⚖️ The Secretary-General warned that the rule of law is being replaced by the "rule of the jungle" globally, with flagrant violations of international law and the UN Charter.
• 🌍 From Gaza to Ukraine and Myanmar, the rule of law is treated as an "à la carte menu," undermining the collective security system.
• 🏛️ The Security Council's role is highlighted as crucial, with a call to enhance its representation and effectiveness to uphold peace and security.

Afghanistan: Women's Rights and Humanitarian Access

• 🇦🇫 Rosemary DiCarlo concluded a visit to Kabul, raising concerns about restrictions on women's access to work, education, and public life.
• 🤝 She urged the de facto authorities to lift these restrictions and engage in the Doha Process for Afghanistan's reintegration into the international community.
• 🚚 Unimpeded cross-border transit of humanitarian assistance was also underscored as a priority.

Syria: Humanitarian Corridors and Al Hol Camp

• 🚚 A UN-supported convoy delivered critical assistance, including food, health supplies, and fuel for water systems, to Kobani.
• 🚪 Following a ceasefire announcement, Syria announced the opening of humanitarian corridors in Hasakah, Aleppo, and near Sarin to allow for civilian movement.
• 🏕️ The environment at Al Hol Camp was described as calm, with camp administration prioritizing de-escalation and stabilization for humanitarian aid.

Gaza: Hostage Recovery, Humanitarian Crisis, and Two-State Solution

• 🕊️ The UN welcomed the recovery of the last Israeli hostage and extended condolences, emphasizing the critical need for full ceasefire implementation.
• 💔 Humanitarian colleagues describe a dire situation in Gaza, with hundreds of thousands displaced and exposed to harsh conditions, facing risks from makeshift shelters and explosive ordnance.
• 🇵🇸 The UN urges all stakeholders to establish a path towards ending the occupation and achieving a two-state solution in line with international law.

Other Global Updates

• 🇸🇴 Somalia launched a humanitarian needs response plan for 2026, calling for $852 million amid severe drought and funding shortfalls.
• 🇸🇸 Peacekeeping mission in South Sudan warns of growing concern over threats of large-scale military operations and escalating hate speech.
• 🇸🇩 Escalating conflict in Sudan's Cordovan region continues to displace civilians, with ongoing efforts to provide essential aid despite unmet needs.
• 🇺🇦 In Ukraine, attacks on critical infrastructure continue, leaving thousands exposed to harsh winter conditions; UN agencies provide essential support.
• ⚡ On the International Day of Clean Energy, the Secretary-General stressed the need for an orderly and equitable transition away from fossil fuels, tripling global renewable capacity by 2030.
• 🇪🇬 Hana Singer Hamdi appointed as the new Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Mali.

Press Conference Q&A

• ❓ Questions addressed the status of power and internet in Kobani, and concerns about ethnically based violence against Kurdish civilians.
• 🛂 Discussions also covered the opening of the Rafa crossing, humanitarian aid surges, and the UN's stance on partner organizations handing over staff names to Israel.
• 🚒 Details were sought on a fire at the UNRWA headquarters in East Jerusalem, and corroboration of violence claims in Syria.
• 🇮🇷 Concerns were raised about heightened military tensions in the region, including the presence of a US aircraft carrier, and the UN's position on the situation in Iran.