Portugal starts vaccinating children amid Omicron variant

He highlighted India's role as a "first responder" for the Maldives, emphasising that India's support during critical periods has been fundamental to the stability and security of the island nation.

The European Union on Wednesday moved to intensify pressure on Tehran amid the conflict in West Asia by approving new sanctions targeting 19 Iranian regime officials and entities accused of serious human rights violations.

In her remarks, Majid stated that every child, regardless of birthplace, deserves safety, dignity and opportunity. She pointed out that violence against children remains a global concern, with more than half of the world's children experiencing some form of violence each year. Such violence, she noted, not only threatens children's physical safety but also affects their emotional well-being, education and long-term development.

UNICEF on Monday decried the rise in child casualties amid rising hostilities in Lebanon and called on all parties to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure. It urged immediate efforts to de-escalate the situation and prevent further harm to children.

Bahrain activated sirens and urged citizens to seek shelter following an Iranian drone attack on civilian targets, including a desalination plant. The strike in Sitra caused casualties, including children. Meanwhile, President Pezeshkian denied seeking conflict with neighbours, while rejecting Donald Trump's demand for Iran's "unconditional surrender."