The UK, France and Canada issue their toughest warning yet to Israel, with the UK suspending trade talks. Meanwhile, the UN warns 14,000 babies could die if aid is not let in.
Reconstruction projects will not be able to rely solely on direct grants and loans. Recovering economies will have to create conditions to attract regional and international investment as well.
The region's youth see themselves as active participants in developing their own countries. They want their voices heard and their talents recognised globally.