At the UN desert conference, the Arab world was notably absent, highlighting the dominance of politics over science in addressing land degradation and desertification. UN ambassador Uriel Safriel commented on the political body's precedence over scientific concerns. Jordan's representative Khaled Nassar maintained a low profile after his colleagues were denied entry visas to Israel. Nader al-Khateeb of the Palestinian Authority pointed to Israeli military action as a major factor in desertification but noted ongoing behind-the-scenes environmental cooperation.

The UN Conference on Deserts and Desertification was informed that future global conflicts may center on water scarcity rather than oil if climate change and poverty are not addressed. The conference, co-hosted by the UNCCD and Israel's Jacob Blaustein Institute for Desert Research, aims to find solutions to desertification. Israel's expertise in dryland development was highlighted, with innovative technologies such as drip irrigation and desalinisation being discussed. The conference also focuses on the potential of deserts for human betterment, with Israel's practices serving as a model.

Following a suicide bombing at Tel Aviv's Central bus station in April, Hilla, a 50-year-old cleaner and mother of three, suffered life-altering injuries and financial hardship. Rabbi Menahem Kutner, director of Israel's Victims of Terror Project, is assisting Hilla through a network of over 1,000 volunteers. The project, under the umbrella of Chabad, provides services to bombing victims and their families, emphasizing the message of solidarity and support.