Mahmoud Abbas Condemns Israeli Offensive and Hamas in Speech to the UN
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas delivered a powerful speech via video link to the United Nations General Assembly, after being denied a visa by the U.S. government. In his address, Abbas condemned Israel’s offensive in Gaza and criticized the October 7 attacks carried out by Hamas. He emphasized that the Palestinian people reject the violence and that Hamas will not have a role in any future government formed after the conflict ends.
Abbas stated, “Despite all that our people have suffered, we reject what Hamas carried out on October 7 — acts that targeted Israeli civilians and took them as hostages — because such actions do not represent the Palestinian people nor their just struggle for freedom and independence.” He called for the disarmament of militant groups and the establishment of a single state with one legal security force.
He also highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where famine is reported in parts of the territory. Abbas described Israel’s actions as a war crime and a crime against humanity, stating it would be remembered as one of the most horrific chapters in the 20th and 21st centuries.
US Seeks to Curb Iranian ‘Shopping Spree’
The U.S. State Department has placed strict limits on the movements of the Iranian delegation at the UN, banning them from luxury stores and wholesalers. The move comes amid accusations that Iranian officials are indulging in lavish spending while their country faces economic hardship. The U.S. has accused Iran of being the “number one state sponsor of terror,” and tensions between the two nations have escalated following U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities earlier this year.
Trump and Lula Meet, Hints at Improved US-Brazil Relations
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva met with U.S. President Donald Trump at the UN General Assembly, marking a potential shift in relations between the two countries. Lula expressed optimism about repairing ties, while Trump praised their “excellent chemistry.” The meeting follows Trump’s imposition of tariffs on Brazilian goods and sanctions against government officials, which Lula attributed to incorrect information about Brazil.
Xi Announces Plan to Cut Chinese Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 2035 during a video address to a UN climate summit. He outlined plans to reduce emissions by 7–10% over the next decade and expand renewable energy. Xi also made a veiled criticism of Trump, who had dismissed climate change as a “con job” during his speech at the UN.
Zelenskyy Warns of Destructive Arms Race
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned that the world is witnessing the most destructive arms race in history. He urged the international community to act against Russian influence, particularly in Moldova, which he said is at risk of falling under Moscow’s control. Zelenskyy also criticized Russia for expanding its war into Europe.
Syrian President Al-Sharaa Addresses the UN for the First Time in 60 Years
Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa addressed the UN General Assembly for the first time in six decades. He promised to hold accountable those responsible for the bloodshed in Syria and emphasized the need for international support. Al-Sharaa also condemned Israeli airstrikes in Syria, which he claimed threaten regional stability.
Iranian President Pezeshkian Denies Nuclear Ambitions
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian told the UN that Iran has no intention of building a nuclear bomb. His speech came ahead of expected European “snapback sanctions” if Iran fails to meet its commitments under the 2015 nuclear deal. Pezeshkian is currently engaging with European leaders to avert these sanctions.
How an Escalator and Teleprompter Nearly Caused a Geopolitical Crisis
During Trump’s speech at the UN, a stalled escalator and a faulty teleprompter caused disruptions. The White House suggested the incidents might have been deliberate, prompting an investigation. However, the UN denied the claims, attributing the escalator malfunction to a safety function triggered by a videographer.
Last-Ditch Nuclear Talks Planned with Iran
European countries Germany, France, and Britain are set to hold behind-the-scenes talks with Iran to prevent snapback sanctions over its nuclear program. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul acknowledged the slim chances of reaching a diplomatic solution before the sanctions are enacted.
Colombia’s Petro Calls for Criminal Process Against Trump
Colombian President Gustavo Petro called for a criminal process against Trump over missile strikes on alleged drug trafficking vessels in the Caribbean. He argued that the attacks, which resulted in multiple deaths, should be investigated, including the involvement of senior U.S. officials.
