"ARABIAN SEA"

UN chief António Guterres noted “with deep concern this morning’s security incidents in the Strait of Hormuz” adding that “if there is something the world cannot afford, it is a major confrontation in the Gulf region.” UNIFEED

Noon briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General.

The Spokesperson for the Secretary-General, Stephane Dujarric, briefs the press.

United Nations Secretary-General   Ban Ki-moon Sunday (12 August) launched a new initiative to protect the oceans and the people whose livelihoods depend on it, and called on countries to work together to achieve a more sustainable management of this precious resource and address the threats it is currently facing. WORLD BANK / TELEVICIONMALDIVES

Across the country, floods devastated rural areas, communities, schools, health facilities and basic social services from the Himalayas to the Arabian Sea. UNICEF shows the realities of twelve-year-old Ejaz Najum's life today after the floods destroyed his entire village and surrounding communities in Pakistan's Sindh Province last year. UNICEF

Six months have passed since Pakistan experienced the worst monsoon floods in its recorded history. Unprecedented amounts of rain and breaches in dams and embankments from late July to mid September 2010 displaced millions of people. Some in the north have had to face triple threats: struggling with the aftermath of the fierce floods, displacement caused by conflict and the arrival of a bitterly cold winter. Many in the south are confronted with land that is still under water. UNICEF

As 2010 comes to a close, some 20 UN humanitarian agencies working in Pakistan look back at one of the most challenging years for the people in the country. The organization reports that millions of Pakistanis still require relief assistance and full recovery of livelihoods and infrastructure. FILE

UN Humanitarian Chief John Holmes, in his final press briefing, says that the extent of the flooding in Pakistan continues to spread and the number of people significantly affected has risen to 17.2 million. The humanitarian community he said, "will not be deterred" by organizations threatening to attack humanitarian workers. UNTV

Yemen, situated on the Arabian Sea, is home to one of the oldest civilizations in the world. It is also home to a tidal wave of weapons. This story takes you inside a bustling arms trade where the statistics are staggering and the consequences devastating.

Unorganized and working without modern boats or motors, fishermen in communities like Qishn were barely able to survive. Today, auctions are dramatically improving local fishermen's fortunes. Fisherman are entitled to sell fish at the auction and are also eligible for credit. IFAD