World Leaders Gather at UN: Gaza War and Global Crises Dominate

The annual session of the United Nations General Assembly has begun in New York, bringing together heads of state, government leaders, and top officials from across the globe. While this year’s theme is “Better Together,” the debates are expected to be dominated by the ongoing wars, poverty, climate change, and the Palestinian question.

Opening and First Day

The week-long event opened on Monday with a special conference on the Israel-Palestine conflict. On Tuesday, the General Debate began, where world leaders traditionally present their country’s position on global issues.

Who Is Speaking

As per tradition, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva delivered the first speech. Other major speakers include U.S. President Donald Trump, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Jordan’s King Abdullah II, French President Emmanuel Macron, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.

UN Chief’s Warning

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned in his opening remarks:

“In Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, and beyond, civilians are being targeted, and international law is being violated. Poverty and hunger are rising. The planet is burning—with wildfires, floods, and record heat.”

He reminded leaders that while the UN’s past 80 years have not been perfect, it has consistently worked toward peace and progress.

Palestinian Statehood Debate

One of the most pressing topics is recognition of a Palestinian state. Recently, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Portugal announced their support, followed by France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, and Monaco. Nearly three-quarters of the UN’s 193 member states now recognize Palestine.

However, the U.S. and Israel boycotted the conference, arguing that recognizing Palestine rewards Hamas—still controlling parts of Gaza—and complicates negotiations for a cease-fire and hostage release.

Spotlight on Trump

Much attention is on Donald Trump, who is addressing the Assembly for the first time in five years. In 2020, the pandemic forced the meeting to be held virtually.

Trump’s “America First” approach has often clashed with the UN’s focus on collective decision-making. His administration has reduced U.S. contributions to the UN, cut aid to international programs, and pulled the U.S. out of some UN agencies.

Long List of Speakers

This year’s debate features an extensive lineup:

• 89 heads of state

• 43 heads of government

• 10 vice presidents or deputy prime ministers

• 45 foreign ministers and other top officials

Conclusion

On the UN stage, leaders are once again calling for peace, cooperation, and unity. But with wars raging, poverty increasing, and the planet heating, the big question remains: Can world leaders truly make the world “better together”?