Broad international support for Gaza ceasefire, and other trending stories, Gulf News Editors comment on December 12 top news

BROAD INTERNATIONAL SUPPORT FOR GAZA CEASEFIRE: The 193-member United Nations General Assembly is anticipated to pass a draft resolution seeking a ceasefire in Gaza on Tuesday, similar to one blocked by the United States in the Security Council last week. Although General Assembly resolutions lack legal binding, they carry political weight and convey global opinions. The upcoming vote on a nonbinding resolution for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas conflict aims to demonstrate broad international support and is scheduled for Tuesday in the UNGA. (By Sadiq Shaban, Opinion Editor)

SPIRIT OF VOLUNTEERISM: In a testament to the indomitable spirit of community service, professionals, students, and scientists are passionately dedicating their time to the monumental event of COP28 hosted by the UAE in Dubai. Fuelled by a profound love of country and a desire to contribute to the global green transition, these UAE residents are stepping forward to play crucial roles in facilitating the success of COP28. Hailing from diverse backgrounds, including students, engineers, realtors, and more, these volunteers are united by a singular mission—to ensure the seamless execution of COP28 at Expo City Dubai. Their selfless commitment is reflected in their willingness to set aside their daily duties to actively participate in a larger cause. Every volunteer has a heartwarming story to tell. But surely, there’s a common thread that holds them together — their dedication has helped illuminate the heart of COP28 UAE. (By Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor)

A WEEK TO REMEMBER FOR THE SPORTS FANS: UAE underlined its status as the international sporting capital this weekend with a surfeit of top-class sporting events taking place across the country. Several iconic names competed in the UAE with as many as seven international events taking place in Dubai alone. The watersports enthusiasts had a problem of plenty with Dubai SailGP, Sharjah Grand Prix, the UIM F1H2O World Championship finale, and the new UAE Class 3 powerboating taking place in Khor Fakkan over the weekend. With the onset of cooler climates, it is just the beginning of a long list of elite events to have a pit stop in UAE. It has been a week to remember for the sports fans, ranging from cricket where India faced Pakistan in the Asia Cup Under-19, the annual Al Habtoor Tennis Challenge and a lot more. (By A.K.S. SATISH, Sports Editor)

JENNIFER ANISTON LOOKS BACK ON MATTHEW PERRY: With friends like Jennifer Aniston, Matthew Perry, who tragically died in late October, was undeniably fortunate. Aniston, in an interview with Variety, recalled how her ‘Friends’ co-star and close mate Perry was on his road to recovery. "He had quit smoking. He was getting in shape. He was happy—that’s all I know," she expressed, becoming a cheerleader for Perry's newfound well-being. She reveals that she had even texted him on the day he died and he seemed to be in a good place. Despite Perry's history of addiction, Aniston emphasised that he hadn't relapsed. Recalling their last exchange, she remembered him as someone who could make her laugh at all times. Aniston's unwavering support and fond memories portray a friendship that transcends even the darkest moments. We miss dearly, but it’s heartening to know that his peers bat him for him even when he’s not around. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)