'Tragedy on one hand, hope on the other': As world welcomes 2024, wars rage on in Gaza & Ukraine

On December 31, the capitals of the world marked the end of 2023 and hoped for a better 2024.

Source: ANI

France, set to host the Summer Olympics in 2024, commemorated the new year and its hosting of the games with a light show projected on to the Arc de Triomphe.

Source: AP

London was lit up with a dazzling display of fireworks over the Thames and the iconic London Eye.

Source: AP

And yet, in the midst of hope and joy were the tiny pinpricks of concern. In New York, security arrangements were tightened to manage any demonstrations related to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Source: AP

In Rome, as the Pope presided over the traditional New Year mass, he said that 2023 was a year marked by wartime suffering and led prayers for those affected.

Source: AP

In Gaza, the night of December 31 was not marked with fireworks but explosives as Israel continued its war against the enclave as Benjamin Netanyahu resists calls for a ceasefire.

Source: AP

In Israel, demonstrations continued, calling for the return of the hostages held in Gaza. A funeral was also held on December 31 for IDF Captain Harrel Ittah.

Source: AP

As Gaza reports a death toll of over 21,000 at the end of 2023, most Gazans see little to hope for in 2024. "From the intensity of the pain we live, we do not feel that there is a new year," said one.

Source: AP

Meanwhile, in Ukraine, missile strikes on the night of December 31 marred hope for any swift resolution of the war in 2024.

Source: AP

Both Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of carrying out attacks on civilian populations during New Year's Eve.

Source: AP