UN calls for ceasefire and aid in Gaza, West Bank

A UN official has strongly condemned the ongoing violence in Gaza and the West Bank. The official called on all parties to follow international laws regarding humanitarian aid and human rights. There is a push for an immediate ceasefire and for aid deliveries to resume in Gaza. In Lebanon, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam announced plans to move the country towards a digital state. He emphasized the importance of gaining external expertise to achieve development goals. The Cabinet has also approved a new method for appointing officials in public institutions, aiming for transparency and competition. Meanwhile, the position of Lebanon's central bank governor remains unfilled. This follows discussions between President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Salam that have not yet produced a candidate. The former governor, Riad Salameh, has been in pretrial detention for seven months over allegations of embezzling public funds. Salameh is accused of taking over $40 million, with assistance from his advisers. The investigation into his case has ended, and it has been sent to the financial prosecutor for further steps. There is no set timeline for the prosecution's action. In related news, the Lebanese public prosecutor has imposed a travel ban on former Economy Minister Amin Salam and others linked to alleged corruption. A complaint details accusations against Salam and his advisers, including bribery and mismanagement of funds. Salam has denied these charges, claiming they are politically motivated. The National Economy Committee has highlighted misuse of authority during Salam's tenure, prompting further judicial action. He has been summoned multiple times for questioning but has missed three sessions. The committee's findings suggest significant misuse of public resources during his time as minister.