*)World is at risk of famines of 'biblical proportions'

The UN says the world is at risk of widespread famine of “biblical proportions” due to the coronavirus pandemic.

More than 250 million are at risk of suffering from hunger, the report said.

The crisis could be the worst humanitarian catastrophe since World War II, the UN's food relief agency says, warning urgent action is needed before people starve.

*)US immigration suspension to last 60 days

President Donald Trump will stop immigration to the US for the next 60 days for those seeking permanent entry.

Trump hailed the move as putting Americans first as unemployment numbers surge.

Economists warn the unemployment rate could reach historic highs this month.

*)Lebanon to farm cannabis to export

The Lebanon Parliament has approved the farming of cannabis, but only for medicinal use.

Lawmakers say the plan is to export medicines produced from the plant in a bid to earn revenue to boost their ailing economy.

Citizens have been protesting against dire economic straits as the country sees double-digit inflation.

*)Iraq relaxes restrictions for Ramadan

With Ramadan a few days away, Iraq has relaxed some restrictions a month after a Covid-19 lockdown.

Some shops and businesses were allowed to reopen to allow people to prepare for Islam's month of fasting.

A curfew will still be in place overnight Sunday through Thursday and for 24 hours on Fridays and Saturdays.

And finally…

*)50th anniversary of Earth Day

Today is Earth Day, designed to raise public awareness about the environment and inspire action to protect it.

The first Earth Day took place in 1970 when on April 22, millions in the US took to the streets to protest environmental ignorance and demand a new way forward.

Activists are urging the 50th anniversary be observed through apps, webinars and digital campaigns, in line with coronavirus restrictions.