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Added on the 20/09/2017 20:12:01 - Copyright : AFPTV - First images
The United States urges both Israel and the Palestinians to avoid "deeply lamentable" civilian deaths after air strikes by the Jewish state in response to rocket fire in Gaza, US State Department spokesman Ned Price tells reporters. SOUNDBITE
The United States criticizes Israel's far-right national security minister for leading prayers at the flashpoint Al-Aqsa mosque compound, saying he has hurt efforts for talks toward a Gaza ceasefire. "Not only is it unacceptable, it detracts from what we think is a vital time, as we are working to get this ceasefire deal across the finish line," State Department spokesman Vedant Patel tells reporters. SOUNDBITE
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken urges Middle East rivals to agree to a Gaza ceasefire to "break this cycle" of violence, urging de-escalation as Iran prepares a potential strike on Israel. "Escalation is not in anyone's interests. It will only lead to more conflict, more violence, more insecurity. It's also critical that we break this cycle by reaching a ceasefire in Gaza," Blinken tells reporters. SOUNDBITE
Nigeria's President Bola Ahmed Tinubu calls for the suspension of nationwide protests and an end to "bloodshed" after security forces cracked down on rallies over economic hardship. SOUNDBITE
UNRWA has funding until the "end of August", explains the agency's Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini, as he delivers a press briefing on the situation in Gaza and the occupied West Bank. "I was referring to our regular budget, which basically covers the 30,000 staff" Lazzarini says, adding that UNRWA still has "a shortfall of about 100-140 million dollars to bridge the end of the year." SOUNDBITE
Supporters of Zambian President Lungu hold a rally in Lusaka during a tense presidential race, which has been marked by clashes between rival supporters. The presidential election will take place on Thursday. IMAGES.