United Nations gives strong support to Lebanon's political independence

The UN Security Council has reaffirmed its strong support for Lebanon's political independence following a report by Secretary-General Antonio Guterres who said "crises in the region continue to pose a risk to the stability" of the country.

In his report circulated this week, Guterres pointed to the sudden resignation of Lebanon's Prime Minister Saad Hariri while he was in Saudi Arabia, which was later rescinded. He also reiterated his call to all Lebanese "to cease their involvement in the Syrian crisis."

A statement by the council after closed briefings Tuesday by the UN peacekeeping chief and senior U.N. official in Lebanon backed efforts by Lebanese authorities "to restore normal functioning institutions" and hold legislative elections on May 6.

Prince William to make 1st official royal visit to Palestinian Territories

will become the first British royal to make an official visit to Israel and Palestinian territories later this year, Kensington Palace announced today, in a significant diplomatic move.
The Duke of Cambridge will visit the Palestinian Territories as part of a wider tour of the Middle East, which includes Israel and Jordan, in the summer.
William, 35, third in line to the British throne, will travel without his wife and children, with further details of the visit to be unveiled at a later stage.
"The visit is at the request of Her Majesty's Government and has been welcomed by the Israeli, Jordanian and Palestinian authorities.

Further details will be announced in due course," Kensington Palace said in a statement.
The visit, seen as a significant diplomatic move, is designed to promote cultural and diplomatic ties with the region, with William expected to spend some time with senior politicians and visit local charities.