A tense confrontation unfolded at the United Nations after Israel’s ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, and senior UN official Vanessa Frazier exchanged sharp remarks during a public hearing focused on children affected by armed conflicts.

The disagreement emerged during an event linked to discussions on the impact of wars on children, where Danon strongly criticized recent UN findings concerning Israel’s conduct in the ongoing Gaza conflict.

Dispute over UN report

During the hearing, Danon accused UN officials of unfairly targeting Israel and questioned the credibility of reports that documented alleged violations involving children in conflict zones. He argued that the findings reflected bias against Israel and called for accountability from those responsible for preparing the reports.

As Danon continued his criticism, Vanessa Frazier intervened and objected to what she described as personal attacks against UN officials. She defended the reporting process, stating that the findings were based on evidence collected and verified through established UN mechanisms.

The exchange quickly became heated, with Danon responding by telling Frazier to “be quiet” while continuing to challenge the conclusions presented in the reports.

Tensions over Gaza conflict findings

The confrontation highlights ongoing tensions between Israel and the United Nations over reports examining the humanitarian impact of the war in Gaza. Israeli officials have repeatedly disputed UN assessments, arguing that they fail to adequately reflect the security challenges Israel faces.

UN officials, meanwhile, have maintained that their reports are based on documented evidence and are intended to monitor the effects of armed conflict on civilians, particularly children.

The disagreement at the hearing underscored the deep divisions that continue to surround international scrutiny of the conflict and its humanitarian consequences.

International attention on children in conflict

The hearing formed part of broader UN efforts to address the impact of armed conflicts on children worldwide. Such discussions typically focus on issues including displacement, access to education, recruitment by armed groups, and violence against minors in conflict zones.

The verbal clash between the Israeli envoy and the UN official drew attention to the broader debate over accountability, evidence gathering and international oversight during ongoing conflicts.

US President Donald Trump has named Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping among the world leaders he admires most, offering praise for both leaders during a recent interview.

Asked which global leaders he respects and admires, Trump pointed to Modi and Xi. He described the Indian Prime Minister as “a very tough cookie” and praised his negotiating abilities, while characterising the Chinese President as someone who is “all business.”

Speaking about Modi, Trump said the Indian leader is a strong negotiator who is difficult to outmanoeuvre in discussions.Trump’s remarks came shortly after his meeting with PM Modi on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France. 

Trump also spoke positively about Xi Jinping, highlighting his focused approach to leadership. Despite differences between Washington and Beijing on several issues, Trump indicated that he maintains respect for Xi’s abilities and leadership style.

The comments reflect Trump’s emphasis on dealing directly with influential world leaders and his tendency to evaluate leaders based on their negotiating skills, leadership qualities and effectiveness on the global stage.

A shooting in New York City’s Times Square caused panic among hundreds of people on Thursday after gunfire erupted in the crowded entertainment and tourist district. Authorities said one person was injured in the incident, while police quickly detained a suspect and began an investigation.

Videos shared on social media showed people running through the streets and seeking cover as the sound of gunshots echoed through the area. The incident unfolded in one of Manhattan’s busiest locations, which is usually packed with tourists, office workers and commuters.

According to officials, emergency responders reached the scene shortly after the shooting was reported. The injured person was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Authorities have not immediately released details about the victim’s condition.

Police officers already deployed in the area moved swiftly to secure the location and apprehend a suspect. Investigators are examining the circumstances that led to the shooting and are working to determine whether any other individuals were involved.

Initial reports suggested that the gunfire may have followed an altercation, though officials have not confirmed a motive. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are reviewing evidence and witness accounts from the scene.

The shooting drew attention because of its location in Times Square, one of New York City’s most visited landmarks. Despite the brief period of chaos, law enforcement officers were able to restore order and secure the area.

Officials have urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward as investigators continue to piece together the events that led to the shooting.