This week, New York hosts more than 140 world leaders for the United Nations General Assembly, marking the organization’s 80th anniversary amid pressing global crises. Nearly 90 heads of state, 43 heads of government, and one crown prince will address the iconic green marble podium, focusing on conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, climate change, the implications of fast-moving technology, and the UN’s continued relevance. Behind the scenes, financial pressures loom large, exacerbated by US aid cuts and other countries reconsidering contributions, raising questions about whether the institution founded after World War II can still deliver on its promises.
The week opened with a France and Saudi Arabia-led push for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Several European countries, including France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, and Monaco, recognised a Palestinian state, joining the UK, Canada, Australia, and Portugal. The US and Israel, however, boycotted the conference, arguing that recognition rewards Hamas and complicates ongoing negotiations. Meanwhile, Israel has intensified operations in Gaza and expanded settlements in the West Bank, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warning of further unilateral measures.
President Donald Trump returns to the UN General Assembly for the first time since starting his second term. His speech on Tuesday is expected to challenge the UN, continuing his “America First” approach that previously led to US withdrawal from the World Health Organization and the UN Human Rights Council. Officials are concerned that further funding cuts from Washington, the UN’s largest donor, could worsen resource constraints just as humanitarian crises demand more support.
Climate change will also take center stage, with more than 110 leaders speaking at a special summit on Wednesday to accelerate commitments to reduce carbon emissions. While all nations were expected to submit updated five-year plans by February, only 47 — responsible for less than a quarter of global emissions — have done so. Key players, including China and the European Union, are expected to present their plans or outlines this week.
High-stakes appearances from Iran and Syria are also scheduled. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian will address the Assembly as a deadline approaches for potential UN sanctions tied to the 2015 nuclear deal. Syria’s new leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, making his first major international speech since taking power, will seek to rehabilitate the country’s global ties, drawing scrutiny from Washington and other capitals.
Beyond formal addresses, much of the diplomacy unfolds in quieter settings: private dinners, receptions, and one-on-one meetings in Manhattan hotels and private clubs. Already, over 1,600 bilateral meetings are scheduled, covering issues from trade disputes to peace negotiations and efforts to normalize relations between rivals, highlighting the UN as both a platform for speeches and a hub for behind-the-scenes diplomacy.
