Miss Israel crowned Miss Universe; African nations may boycott Montreal Olympics

Twenty-year-old Miss Israel, Rina Messinger, was crowned Miss Universe in Hong Kong, concluding Anne Pohtamo's year as the world's most beautiful woman. The competition saw 72 countries participating, making it the largest and most heavily guarded beauty pageant in history.

Finland's representative, Suvi Lukkarinen, did not advance to the final twelve contestants. The organizers are reportedly concerned about the new Miss Universe's security during her upcoming year, given the high-profile nature of the event and potential political sensitivities.

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I want to go home and I want to call my parents.

Messinger, a student at Tel Aviv University, was overcome with emotion upon her victory, tearfully expressing a desire to go home and call her parents. Looking ahead to her reign, she voiced a hope to visit Arab nations, acknowledging the current political disputes between Arabs and Israelis but expressing a wish for peace.

In separate news, all Black African nations may withdraw from the Montreal Olympics in protest against New Zealand's participation due to its sporting ties with apartheid-practicing South Africa. Tanzania and Mauritius have already announced their withdrawal, with calls for a broader boycott.

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I would like to tell the Arab states that we all want peace.