Washington: Hala Rharrit, Arabic Spokesperson at US State Department, Resigns Over Gaza Policy Dispute

Hala Rharrit, the Arabic language spokesperson for the US State Department, has stepped down from her role citing disagreement with Washington's stance on Israel's actions in Gaza. This marks the third resignation in protest against US policy concerning Palestinians and Gaza.

Rharrit, also the Deputy Director of Dubai Regional Media Hub, had been with the State Department for nearly two decades, starting as a political and human rights officer.

In a social media post, she stated, “After 18 years of service, I resign in protest against America's Gaza policy,”.

During a press briefing, a State Department spokesperson mentioned that avenues exist within the department for expressing dissenting views on government policies.

This resignation follows recent departures from the Bureau of Human Rights and Education Department, highlighting internal discord over US support for Israel's actions in Gaza.

Criticism against the US has mounted internationally and from human rights organizations for its stance. Calls for a ceasefire have been made, with internal discussions reflecting deep divisions within President Joe Biden's administration.

Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday left for Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to attend the special meeting of World Economic Forum on Global Cooperation, Growth and Energy starting from tomorrow.                         

The Prime Minister has been invited to attend the moot by Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Muhammad bin Salman Al Saud and the founder and chief executive of the World Economic Forum Klaus Schwab.          

The Prime Minister will present Pakistan's position regarding global health, financial technologies, information technology, inclusive growth, regional cooperation and balanced use of energy in the context of global development.

On the sidelines, the Prime Minister is also expected to hold meetings with important world leaders, heads of international organizations and other important personalities.

Lahore: Six employees of Government College University Lahore were granted Umrah packages from the Benevolent Fund.

The recipients were selected during a lucky draw conducted by Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Shazia Bashir at the University mosque.

The fortunate employees include Javaid Hussain, a Security Guard; Muhammad Zulfiqar, a member of the Library staff; Farasat Ali, a Laboratory Assistant; Saba Raheem, an Assistant Professor; Tahir Bashir, the Additional Registrar; and Umar Sardar, a Lecturer.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Shazia Bashir expressed her delight at the occasion, extending her congratulations to all the recipients. She said three Gazetted and three non-gazetted employees were selected for Umrah packages.