US Defence Secretary Reasserts Support for Israel but Urges Shift in Tactics in Gaza Conflict.
- US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin discusses a shift in Israeli military strategy with a focus on precise targeting of Hamas leaders in talks with Israeli officials.
- Austin emphasizes Israel's operation autonomy, aiming to prevent Hamas from projecting terror into Israel while acknowledging the moral duty to protect Palestinian civilians in Gaza.
- The Biden administration expresses continued support for Israel but warns about international criticism due to "indiscriminate bombing."
- Israel plans to transition to intelligence-led operations to minimize civilian casualties, targeting Hamas leaders, destroying tunnels, and rescuing hostages.
- Growing international calls for a ceasefire, concerns about the humanitarian impact in Gaza, and a UN Security Council vote on a resolution for an urgent and sustainable cessation of hostilities.
Guyana and Venezuela Pledge to Avoid Force in Bitter Border Dispute Over Oil-Rich Region.
- Guyana and Venezuela leaders promise not to use threats or force in resolving the border dispute over the Essequibo region, rich in oil and minerals.
- A joint commission, including foreign ministers, will address the issue, with a report expected in three months.
- Tensions rose with oil discovery in Guyana, and Venezuela claims a 1966 agreement nullifies the 1899 border.
- The leaders agree to meet again in Brazil within three months, refraining from escalating conflicts.
- Guyana emphasizes the dispute is not up for negotiation, while both sides put their militaries on alert.
Read more at: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/dec/15/guyana-and-venezuela-dispute-force-promise
Argentina's New Government Implements Over 50% Peso Devaluation in Economic Overhaul.
- Argentina devalues its peso by over 50% as part of an economic plan under President Javier Milei, aiming to address the country's severe economic crisis.
- The devaluation, setting the official exchange rate to 800 pesos per dollar, accompanies significant spending cuts, including energy subsidy reductions and cancelation of public works tenders.
- Economy Minister Luis Caputo announces a monthly devaluation target of 2%, seeking to tackle a 5.5% GDP fiscal deficit.
- The International Monetary Fund (IMF) welcomes the measures as a bold step toward stability and economic potential restoration.
- Argentina, facing soaring inflation, high poverty rates, and a $44 billion IMF loan, implements drastic measures to stabilize its economy, including reducing the number of government ministries.
Read more at: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/dec/13/argentina-new-government-devalues-peso-economic-crisis
