International Coalition Challenges Israel's Actions at the UN

Executive Summary

On September 27, 2025, during the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York, the Group of The Hague, which includes Mexico and 33 other nations, convened to present legal, diplomatic, and economic measures aimed at ending impunity for Israel's actions in the Gaza Strip under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The assembly included representatives from countries such as Colombia, South Africa, Turkey, Spain, Qatar, Brazil, Chile, Indonesia, Jordan, Ireland, Norway, and Saudi Arabia. Concurrently, a separate coalition of 12 countries, including Spain, the United Kingdom, France, Japan, and Saudi Arabia, announced a financial support initiative for the Palestinian Authority, which faces liquidity issues due to Israel withholding tax revenues. The situation marks nearly two years of conflict in Gaza. U.S. President Donald Trump indicated progress toward a peace agreement to end the war and secure the release of hostages but provided no further details. Meanwhile, Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu faced a boycott as approximately 100 delegates from around 50 countries exited the UN hall during his speech, where he declared that accepting a Palestinian state would be a "national suicide" for Israel and emphasized the goal to "finish the job" in Gaza swiftly. Netanyahu is also subject to an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court. Palestinian Authority leader Mahmoud Abbas reiterated that Hamas would not have a role in governing a future Palestinian state.

Situation

The international community is actively seeking accountability and resolution regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The Group of The Hague's assembly represents a coordinated effort to address alleged crimes by Israel through multilateral legal and diplomatic channels. The financial coalition aims to sustain the Palestinian Authority amid economic pressures. The boycott of Netanyahu's UN speech underscores Israel's growing diplomatic isolation over its Gaza policies. The conflict's duration and severity have prompted various peace proposals, including a 21-point U.S. plan distributed to Middle Eastern nations. The complex dynamics involve balancing security concerns, humanitarian needs, and political sovereignty. National responses vary, with some countries supporting Israel's right to defend itself, while others emphasize Palestinian rights and call for an end to hostilities. Quotes include Netanyahu's characterization of a Palestinian state as "national suicide" and Hamas official Taher al Nunu's statement that the boycott reflects Israel's isolation due to its "war of extermination."

International Impact

The conflict has significant international implications, affecting diplomatic relations and regional stability. The coordinated actions by multiple countries at the UN signal a shift toward increased scrutiny of Israel's conduct. President Trump's remarks about a potential Gaza agreement highlight ongoing U.S. engagement, though details remain scarce. The boycott at the UN reflects broader global divisions and the challenges of achieving consensus on Middle East peace. Leaders from various nations have expressed concern over civilian casualties and called for renewed negotiations. The situation influences international law discussions, humanitarian aid efforts, and geopolitical alliances.

Decision Maker Perspectives

Group of The Hague (including Mexico): Seeking to end impunity for Israel's actions in Gaza through legal and diplomatic measures, emphasizing accountability and global response to alleged crimes.

Coalition of 12 countries (including Spain, UK, France, Japan, Saudi Arabia): Providing financial support to the Palestinian Authority to address its liquidity crisis caused by Israel withholding tax revenues.

Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister of Israel: Opposes the creation of a Palestinian state, viewing it as a national suicide for Israel, and aims to swiftly conclude military operations in Gaza.

Mahmoud Abbas, Palestinian Authority Leader: Rejects Hamas' role in future Palestinian governance and calls for international recognition of Palestine.

Donald Trump, U.S. President: Indicates progress toward a peace agreement in Gaza that includes hostage recovery and an end to the war, maintaining strong support for Israel.

Source Perspectives

Excélsior: Provides detailed coverage of the UN events, highlighting the legal and diplomatic initiatives against Israel and the boycott of Netanyahu's speech.

AFP and DPA: Reports on the international responses and statements from key figures, emphasizing the political tensions at the UN.

Gabriela Damián Miravete's Literary Tribute to Women's Strength

Executive Summary

Mexican writer Gabriela Damián Miravete released her book "Soñarán en el jardín," a collection of 12 stories centered on women who endure and resist violence and oppression with dignity, love, and strength. The book offers narratives that challenge dystopian and apocalyptic endings by proposing hopeful futures, including a world without femicides. Miravete dedicates her work to women who sustain the soul of the world and advocates for education and transformation of masculinity to prevent violence against women. The book was scheduled to be presented on September 30, 2025, in Coyoacán, Mexico City.

Situation

Miravete's work contributes to the discourse on gender violence and women's resilience in Mexico and beyond. Written between 2009 and 2020, the stories reflect painful realities but also emphasize communal struggle and the power of imagination. The author highlights the importance of women's voices in creating new social landscapes and calls for collective action to transform cultural norms. The book serves as both a literary and social intervention, aiming to inspire change and recognition of women's experiences. The presentation event is part of ongoing cultural efforts to raise awareness and promote feminist perspectives.

International Impact

The themes resonate globally, as violence against women and femicide are critical issues worldwide. Miravete's hopeful narratives align with international movements advocating for gender equality and human rights. The book contributes to cultural dialogues that support empowerment and systemic change. It may influence readers and activists internationally, fostering solidarity and shared strategies to combat oppression.

Decision Maker Perspectives

Gabriela Damián Miravete: Uses literature to honor women's strength and promote awareness of violence and oppression, advocating for education and cultural transformation.

Source Perspectives

Excélsior: Highlights the cultural significance of the book and its role in addressing social issues related to women.

Día Nacional del Maíz in Veracruz Celebrates Traditional Agriculture and Culture

Executive Summary

On September 28, 2025, the community of Rancho Viejo in Veracruz, Mexico, hosted the 11th Feria de la Milpa, an event honoring the traditional agricultural system of milpa, which integrates maize, beans, squash, and other native crops. The fair included a contest for the best native maize ear, a culinary competition featuring milpa-based dishes, workshops on agroecological transition, bioinput production, and nixtamalization, as well as a seed exchange to support genetic preservation. The event also featured artistic programs, traditional dances, and a mariachi concert. The Feria de la Milpa emphasizes the importance of biocultural diversity, food sovereignty, and community resistance against extractive agricultural models.

Situation

The Feria de la Milpa serves as a platform for farmers, traditional cooks, children, and community groups to share knowledge, seeds, and culinary traditions. It highlights the role of rural communities in preserving native maize varieties and sustainable farming practices. The event fosters education on agroecology and promotes the cultural and spiritual significance of the milpa system. Organizers stress that milpa is not just food but memory, ritual, and connection to the land. The location in Rancho Viejo is accessible via the old road to Coapexpan, Veracruz. The fair is part of broader efforts to support indigenous and local agricultural heritage amid challenges from industrial agriculture.

International Impact

The preservation of traditional agricultural systems like milpa aligns with global initiatives on biodiversity conservation, sustainable food systems, and indigenous rights. The event contributes to international awareness of Mexico's rich agricultural heritage and the importance of protecting native crops. It supports global goals such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals related to zero hunger, sustainable agriculture, and cultural preservation.

Decision Maker Perspectives

Organizers and Community of Rancho Viejo: Promote the milpa system as a foundation of food sovereignty, cultural identity, and ecological sustainability.

Participants (farmers, cooks, collectives): Share traditional knowledge, seeds, and culinary practices to strengthen community resilience and heritage.

Source Perspectives

Excélsior: Reports on the cultural and agricultural significance of the Feria de la Milpa and its role in community empowerment.

Specialists Recommend Nixtamalized Corn Tortilla for Active Aging

Executive Summary

On August 28, 2025, in Mexico, specialists highlighted the nutritional benefits of the nixtamalized corn tortilla as an ally for active aging during the National Day of Older Adults. The tortilla provides energy, calcium, fiber, and versatility, which contribute to bone health, digestion, and prevention of cardiovascular diseases common among seniors. Experts recommend combining tortillas with high biological value foods like eggs, beans, or low-fat cheese to maintain muscle mass, control appetite, strengthen immunity, and aid tissue repair. Alternative preparations such as baked chilaquiles or soft tortillas in soups are suggested for those with chewing or swallowing difficulties. Beyond nutrition, the tortilla holds emotional and cultural significance for older adults, connecting them to memories and community.

Situation

The tortilla remains a staple in Mexican diets, with an average consumption of over 70 kilograms per person annually. The traditional nixtamalization process enhances nutrient availability, particularly calcium, which is crucial for preventing osteoporosis in the elderly. Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in people over 60 in Mexico, and diets rich in fiber, like those including corn tortillas, help reduce these risks. The recommendation supports balanced, culturally relevant diets rather than restrictive eating. The food industry produces tortillas from both nixtamalized corn masa and flour, with the majority still made from masa. The advice aims to improve quality of life and health outcomes for the aging population.

International Impact

The promotion of traditional foods like the nixtamalized corn tortilla aligns with global public health efforts to encourage culturally appropriate, nutrient-rich diets for aging populations. It supports sustainable food systems and the preservation of indigenous food heritage. The emphasis on dietary fiber and calcium intake resonates with international guidelines for preventing chronic diseases and maintaining functional independence in older adults.

Decision Maker Perspectives

Nutrition Specialists: Advocate for the inclusion of nixtamalized corn tortillas in older adults' diets to support bone health, digestion, and cardiovascular disease prevention.

Food Industry: Produce tortillas from both nixtamalized masa and flour, maintaining traditional food availability.

Source Perspectives

Excélsior: Provides informative coverage on the health benefits of corn tortillas for the elderly and cultural context.