Call for Food Assistance in Gaza, and other trending stories, Gulf News Editors comment on November 17 top news

CALL FOR FOOD ASSISTANCE IN GAZA: In a distressing revelation, the UN's World Food Program (WFP) sounded the alarm on Thursday, highlighting the critical need for immediate food assistance in the Gaza Strip. The situation has reached a dire state, with 2.2 million Palestinians in the territory now requiring food aid for survival. The collapse of food supply chains, coupled with the closure of the last remaining bakery operating in partnership with the UN agency due to a lack of fuel, marks a catastrophic turning point. The international community must act promptly to ensure that food assistance reaches those in desperate need, providing a lifeline to the vulnerable population grappling with the harsh realities of their circumstances. (By Sadiq Shaban, Opinion Editor)

SOUTH AFRICA'S WORLD CUP RESILIENCE: South Africa's performance in the World Cup Cricket is commendable. The team arrived in India with high hopes, having previously defeated Australia 3-2 in a One-Day International series at home. Throughout the World Cup, they displayed an attractive brand of cricket, providing optimism to millions of fans eager to see an end to their barren run in the showpiece event. Despite facing a setback with their fifth loss in the knockout stage, a blow to their aspirations, they can leave India with heads held high. The morale boost comes from their tenacious victory in the semifinals against Australia on Thursday. Though the unfair label of "chokers" may resurface, they should take pride in their overall performance in the World Cup. (By A.K.S. SATISH, Sports Editor)

SEAN 'DIDDY' COMBS’ FALL FROM GRACE? If movie mogul Harvey Weinstein fueled the #MeToo movement against sexual misconduct at workplace, another alleged predator’s name has just emerged. Earlier today, news broke that Sean ‘Diddy Combs, one of the most influential hip-hop moguls, is now facing accusations of rape and brutal physical abuse from R & B singer Cassie. The survivor, who signed with Combs' label at 19 in 2005, claims the abuse started shortly after their relationship began. Combs vehemently denies the allegations, branding them as "lies". While it’s too early to pass judgment, the lawsuit could challenge his status as a music industry icon. Despite his attorney's dismissal of the claims, the allegations, if substantiated, could irreversibly tarnish Combs' reputation. It’s unfortunate that such revelations bring to light the unsavory side of show business. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)