Humanitarian crisis in Gaza demands urgent UN Resolution, and other trending stories, Gulf News Editors comment on December 19 top news

HUMANITARIAN CRISIS IN GAZA DEMANDS URGENT UN RESOLUTION: The situation in Gaza has escalated into a severe humanitarian catastrophe, prompting a crucial vote today at the UN Security Council on a UAE-drafted resolution calling for an immediate and sustainable cessation of hostilities. Civilians in Gaza are grappling with acute shortages of food, water, medicine, and fuel, underscoring the urgent need for unimpeded humanitarian access. The resolution's legal binding – if it is adopted – nature adds weight to the call for action. With over 19,400 Palestinians lost and thousands more buried under rubble, the proposed resolution aims to address the pressing crisis and facilitate vital relief efforts in the region. (By Sadiq Shaban, Opinion Editor)

PROGRESSIVE MOVE: The new UAE rules regulating private tuition at home marks a significant move towards good governance and enhanced standards. Private home tutoring, now regulated through the Private Teacher Work Permit announced jointly by the Ministry of Education (MoE) and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), aims to bring order to a sector and curb haphazard practices. Prospective private teachers can easily obtain the free two-year, renewable permit by registering on the official MoHRE webpage. The move establishes checks and balances, catering to the high demand for private tuition, and providing penalties for violations. With a legal framework now in place, both learners and educators are protected, ensuring that financial obligations, content, and structure adhere to agreed-upon terms. This system not only meets the needs of students but also fosters an environment that aligns with international best practices and promoting a holistic learning process. (By Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor)

MARVEL DROPS JONATHAN MAJORS OVER ABUSIVE BEHAVIOR VERDICT: In a dramatic turn of events, Marvel Studios has severed ties with actor Jonathan Majors, who received a guilty verdict for misdemeanor assault and harassment violations following an altercation with his then-girlfriend, Grace Jabbari. The swift response from Marvel Studios to distance themselves from Majors amplifies the message that there's no room for tolerance of abusive behavior, even if it means facing financial losses and disrupting well-laid plans. Marvel, arguably having more riding on Majors than any other actor, has abruptly dropped him from all future projects. This unexpected but welcome move underscores the studio's commitment to distancing itself from any association with misconduct. This decision also marks a significant moment in Hollywood's recalibration amid the #MeToo era. The ruling delivered by a New York jury speaks of the triumph of accountability and the empowerment of abuse survivors. It's a big win. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)