NEW DELHI: A rare 4.8 magnitude earthquake briefly interrupted a meeting of the UN Security Council in New York on Friday.
The diplomats were discussing the situation in Gaza when the tremors rattled the chamber. Janti Soeripto, President and Chief Executive Officer of Save the Children US, was highlighting the hardships faced by women and children in Gaza when the earthquake struck.
Palestinian UN envoy Riyad Mansour jokingly remarked to her, “You’re making the ground shake,” eliciting laughter from those present.
Despite the interruption, Soeripto sought confirmation to continue her statement, which she did after the tremors subsided. The incident was captured in a video shared by UN News X on social media.
“#BREAKING: “You’re making the ground shake!” UN Security Council hears as mid-morning #earthquake interrupts briefing on the situation in the Middle East,” UN News said in a post on X along with a video.
The diplomats were discussing the situation in Gaza when the tremors rattled the chamber. Janti Soeripto, President and Chief Executive Officer of Save the Children US, was highlighting the hardships faced by women and children in Gaza when the earthquake struck.
Palestinian UN envoy Riyad Mansour jokingly remarked to her, “You’re making the ground shake,” eliciting laughter from those present.
Despite the interruption, Soeripto sought confirmation to continue her statement, which she did after the tremors subsided. The incident was captured in a video shared by UN News X on social media.
“#BREAKING: “You’re making the ground shake!” UN Security Council hears as mid-morning #earthquake interrupts briefing on the situation in the Middle East,” UN News said in a post on X along with a video.
The earthquake, with a magnitude of 4.8, originated seven kilometers north of Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, affecting areas across New York City.
No damages or injuries were reported, as confirmed by the New York Police Department.
The New York City Fire Department responded to reports of shaking buildings following the quake but stated that there were no significant incidents at the time. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre informed that President Joe Biden had been briefed on the earthquake, which originated in New Jersey. The President remained in contact with his team to monitor any possible consequences.