UN approves New Zealand's plan for nuclear war impact study

New Zealand and Ireland have proposed a new scientific panel to study the effects of nuclear war, marking the first UN-mandated study since 1989. The panel will consist of 21 experts focusing on physical and societal impacts. The UN's First Committee approved the resolution with a vote of 144-3, with France, Russia, and the UK opposing it. The committee also passed a resolution urging nuclear-armed states to reduce risks associated with nuclear weapons. The second resolution received a vote of 145-6, with China, North Korea, Iran, Nicaragua, Russia, and Syria voting against it. Both resolutions aim to enhance nuclear disarmament and arms control efforts.