<p>External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said that a stand-off between India and China “won’t help either of us, and third parties will take advantage of it”, and added that he conveyed the message to Beijing multiple times and at a personal level.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In an address at the Asia Society during the UN General Assembly, Jaishankar pointed to the “improvement in ties” between Beijing and Delhi.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Speaking about India-China relations at the event, Jaishankar said, “If you asked me, compared to where you were in 2025, is the relationship better today? I would say yes. Compared to 2024, even more so.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“After what happened in 2020 and the long standoff that we had on the border, the relationship had really been impacted. Once the border standoff was resolved, it was natural that this would start to improve... We have long been telling the Chinese, personally at my level, that a standoff between us, a dip in our relationship, doesn’t help either of us. Third parties will take advantage of that. It took a little while for the Chinese side to agree with that, for whatever reason,” the EAM said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">A &quot;stand off&quot; between India, China wont help &quot;either of us, 3rd party will take advantage of it&quot;, says EAM Jaishankar; Points to &quot;improvement&quot; in ties.<br><br>Vdo source: Asia Society <a href="https://t.co/C5hQP4fYc6">pic.twitter.com/C5hQP4fYc6</a></p>&mdash; Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://x.com/sidhant/status/2104805695652577412?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“But I don’t think that long standoff served our interests. It certainly didn’t serve theirs... what we’ve had is that, as the border comes back more towards normalcy, the relationship comes back more towards normalcy... If it happens, it helps both of us,” he added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Jaishankar said the improvement was a recovery from a relationship that had gone “so much off-track”.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, sources said India is holding talks with China in order to explore the possibility of an alternate air route for Indian airlines amid the continuing Pakistan airspace ban that makes flights to Europe and the United States longer and more expensive.</p><p>The talks are focused on the use of Xinjiang airspace as an alternate route.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Sources said the Ministry of External Affairs is engaging with Chinese counterparts on alternate routes and that talks are on for over a year to route flights via Hotan in western China.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s arrival in New Delhi for the BRICS Summit, China Southern Airlines announced that it will resume direct flights between Guangzhou and New Delhi from September 21, restoring a route that had been suspended for six years.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The resumption is part of a broader restoration of direct air links between the two countries after services were disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent tensions along the India-China border.</p>

In an address at the Asia Society during the UN General Assembly, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar pointed to the “improvement in ties” between Beijing and Delhi. He said the improvement was a recovery from a relationship that had gone “so much off-track”.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said that a stand-off between India and China “won’t help either of us, and third parties will take advantage of it”, and added that he conveyed the message to Beijing multiple times and at a personal level. In an address at the Asia Society during the UN General Assembly, Jaishankar pointed to the “improvement in ties” between Beijing and Delhi. Speaking about India-China relations at the event, Jaishankar said, “If you asked me, compared to where you were in 2025, is the relationship better today? I would say yes. Compared to 2024, even more so.” “After what happened in 2020 and the long standoff that we had on the border, the relationship had really been impacted. Once the border standoff was resolved, it was natural that this would start to improve... We have long been telling the Chinese, personally at my level, that a standoff between us, a dip in our relationship, doesn’t help either of us. Third parties will take advantage of that. It took a little while for the Chinese side to agree with that, for whatever reason,” the EAM said.

<p>In an address at the Asia Society during the UN General Assembly, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar pointed to the “improvement in ties” between Beijing and Delhi. He said the improvement was a recovery from a relationship that had gone “so much off-track”.</p>

‘Told China standoff won’t help either of us, third parties will take advantage’: Jaishankar

<p>Indian diplomat Petal Gehlot has delivered a sharp rebuke of Pakistan at the United Nations, hitting out at its leadership for hypocrisy, cross-border terrorism and military domination after remarks by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Petal Gahlot, First Secretary at India’s Permanent Mission to the UN, exercised India’s right of reply during the General Assembly session in New York. She said the views expressed by Pakistan “emanate from those with a long record of bigotry and hatred.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“They claim to uphold security during the day; they actually carry out terrorism at night,” Gahlot told the Assembly. She rejected comments on religious intolerance, arguing they came “from the very regime whose mainstay is blasphemy laws.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“The world knows how minorities are treated in Pakistan; no pious platitude can mislead it,” she said. A century-old Hindu temple in Siraj village, Narowal district in Pakistan’s Punjab, was reduced to rubble on 21 August, with minority groups saying it was razed so adjoining land could be absorbed by a madrassa.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Gahlot dismissed references to Jammu and Kashmir, calling the Indian union territory “an integral and inalienable part of my country. And will always remain so.” She then turned the focus to areas under Pakistan occupied where the situation has deteriorated. In the past few months, the Pakistani occupying forces have killed many unarmed civilians using brute force.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“If we must talk about Kashmir, let us turn our attention to the Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Ask the people of Rawalakot about the wanton killings, the brutal violence and the denial of basic rights that they have long experienced,” she said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>She identified “the longstanding practice of cross-border terrorism by Pakistan” as the core issue. Recalling India's operation Sindoor, Gahlot said, “We demonstrated last year that terrorists will have nowhere to run, nowhere to hide. Our right to defend ourselves against terrorism will be exercised. And continued terrorism by Pakistan will have consequences.” India launched its counter-terror operation days after Pakistan-trained terrorists killed civilians in Pahalgam. Under the operation, several sites where terrorists have been trained were destroyed by the Indian side.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Gahlot accused Islamabad of offering “hypocritical homilies about democratic rights and human values from a regime whose capital at this very moment is being fortified against its own people.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“And that, Mr. President, is happening because this is a regime of the Army, by the Army, and for the Army,” she said. “Their puppets may come and go but let us have no illusion who calls the shots. The reality of Pakistan is expressed in its 27th Amendment and the lifelong immunity granted to its real ruler.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>She linked Pakistan’s record to the 2011 killing of UN terrorist, 9/11 terroists attack plotter Osama bin Laden, noting he “was living right on the doorstep of the Pakistani Army’s premier academy.” Gahlot described the Pakistani government as what “Pakistanis themselves call a Form 47 government.” Form 47 is Pakistan Election Commission document, prepared after collecting Form 45 from polling stations. After the 2024 election, opposition said many Form 47s were changed overnight, by changing form 45.</p><p>She told the assembly that they should “recognize Pakistan and its policies for what they really are; not what its representative mendaciously projects it to be. Reiterating falsehoods year after year does not make them true. Pakistan’s terrorism, deceit and duplicity will neither benefit it nor the world".</p>

Indian diplomat Petal Gahlot exercised India’s Right of Reply at the UN, slamming Pakistan over cross-border terrorism and demanding it vacate Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Indian diplomat Petal Gehlot has delivered a sharp rebuke of Pakistan at the United Nations, hitting out at its leadership for hypocrisy, cross-border terrorism and military domination after remarks by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Petal Gahlot, First Secretary at India’s Permanent Mission to the UN, exercised India’s right of reply during the General Assembly session in New York. She said the views expressed by Pakistan “emanate from those with a long record of bigotry and hatred.” “They claim to uphold security during the day; they actually carry out terrorism at night,” Gahlot told the Assembly. She rejected comments on religious intolerance, arguing they came “from the very regime whose mainstay is blasphemy laws.” “The world knows how minorities are treated in Pakistan; no pious platitude can mislead it,” she said. A century-old Hindu temple in Siraj village, Narowal district in Pakistan’s Punjab, was reduced to rubble on 21 August, with minority groups saying it was razed so adjoining land could be absorbed by a madrassa. Gahlot dismissed references to Jammu and Kashmir, calling the Indian union territory “an integral and inalienable part of my country. And will always remain so.” She then turned the focus to areas under Pakistan occupied where the situation has deteriorated. In the past few months, the Pakistani occupying forces have killed many unarmed civilians using brute force. “If we must talk about Kashmir, let us turn our attention to the Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Ask the people of Rawalakot about the wanton killings, the brutal violence and the denial of basic rights that they have long experienced,” she said. She identified “the longstanding practice of cross-border terrorism by Pakistan” as the core issue. Recalling India's operation Sindoor, Gahlot said, “We demonstrated last year that terrorists will have nowhere to run, nowhere to hide. Our right to defend ourselves against terrorism will be exercised. And continued terrorism by Pakistan will have consequences.” India launched its counter-terror operation days after Pakistan-trained terrorists killed civilians in Pahalgam. Under the operation, several sites where terrorists have been trained were destroyed by the Indian side. Gahlot accused Islamabad of offering “hypocritical homilies about democratic rights and human values from a regime whose capital at this very moment is being fortified against its own people.” “And that, Mr. President, is happening because this is a regime of the Army, by the Army, and for the Army,” she said. “Their puppets may come and go but let us have no illusion who calls the shots. The reality of Pakistan is expressed in its 27th Amendment and the lifelong immunity granted to its real ruler.” She linked Pakistan’s record to the 2011 killing of UN terrorist, 9/11 terroists attack plotter Osama bin Laden, noting he “was living right on the doorstep of the Pakistani Army’s premier academy.” Gahlot described the Pakistani government as what “Pakistanis themselves call a Form 47 government.” Form 47 is Pakistan Election Commission document, prepared after collecting Form 45 from polling stations. After the 2024 election, opposition said many Form 47s were changed overnight, by changing form 45. She told the assembly that they should “recognize Pakistan and its policies for what they really are; not what its representative mendaciously projects it to be. Reiterating falsehoods year after year does not make them true. Pakistan’s terrorism, deceit and duplicity will neither benefit it nor the world".

<p>Indian diplomat Petal Gahlot exercised India’s Right of Reply at the UN, slamming Pakistan over cross-border terrorism and demanding it vacate Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).</p>

Indian diplomat Petal Gahlot raises deteriorating situation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in right of reply at UN

<p>Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif used his address at the United Nations General Assembly on Friday to credit US President Donald Trump for what he described as a ‘timely intervention’ during the 2025 conflict between India and Pakistan.</p><p>Sharif also raised the Kashmir issue and referred to Pakistan's account of the May 2025 conflict, portraying Islamabad's actions during the confrontation as a success. During the speech, Indian diplomat R Srinivas was seen laughing as Sharif spoke about Pakistan's claimed ‘victory’ during the conflict. Sharif thanked Trump for his resolute and visionary leadership, saying the American leader's intervention saved hundreds of millions of lives in South Asia. Trump has repeatedly claimed, including in his address to the UN General Assembly this week, that he stopped the war between India and Pakistan. New Delhi has consistently denied any third-party intervention.</p><h2>Shehbaz Sharif raises Kashmir at UN</h2><p>India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, 2025, targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, in which 26 civilians were killed. In his roughly 23-minute address, Sharif argued that a ‘just and fair solution’ to the Kashmir issue was necessary to ensure South Asia does not return to the brink seen during the 2025 conflict. India has repeatedly rejected Pakistan's assertions on Kashmir at the UN General Assembly and other UN platforms. New Delhi maintains that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral and inalienable part of India. India is expected to exercise its Right of Reply to Sharif's address, as it has done in previous years, with a diplomat from India's Permanent Mission to the UN responding to Pakistan's remarks.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/a-terrorist-country-is-asking-me-that-question-jaishankar-hits-back-at-pakistani-journalist-at-un-flags-attacks-on-commercial-shipping-1790360879334"><strong>'A terrorist country is asking me that question?': Jaishankar hits back at Pakistani journalist at UN; flags attacks on commercial shipping</strong></a></p><h2>Watch the video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Indian diplomat R. Srinivas laughs off as Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif begins claiming about Pakistani &quot;victory&quot; during May 2025 conflict during UN Speech <a href="https://t.co/ijxXHxRebY">pic.twitter.com/ijxXHxRebY</a></p>&mdash; Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://x.com/sidhant/status/2103549088499405275?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>India-Pakistan conflict claims</h2><p>Sharif's speech placed considerable emphasis on Pakistan's account of the 2025 confrontation with India, including Islamabad's claims about the outcome of the conflict. The reaction from Indian diplomat R Srinivas, seen laughing while Sharif spoke about Pakistan's claimed "victory", became a notable moment from the UN session.</p><h2>Sharif mentions Indus Waters Treaty</h2><p>Sharif also referred to the Indus Waters Treaty, which India has placed in abeyance. India has said the treaty will remain in abeyance until Pakistan credibly and irrevocably ends its support for cross-border and other forms of terrorism. New Delhi announced the decision as part of a series of diplomatic and economic measures following the Pahalgam terror attack.</p><h2>Sharif highlights Pakistan's US-Iran diplomacy</h2><p>During his address, Sharif also spoke about Pakistan's efforts to facilitate dialogue between the United States and Iran amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia. "Pakistan chose to act swiftly through concerted efforts. Pakistan successfully brought Washington and Tehran under one roof in Islamabad. From the Islamabad talks to the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, many historic steps were taken to bring an end to this serious conflict," he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>India is expected to respond to Sharif's remarks through its Right of Reply at the UN, including on issues relating to Kashmir, terrorism and the 2025 conflict.</p>

Shehbaz Sharif praises Trump and raises Kashmir at UNGA while Indian diplomat R. Srinivas is seen laughing as Pakistan’s claimed 2025 conflict victory is discussed

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif used his address at the United Nations General Assembly on Friday to credit US President Donald Trump for what he described as a ‘timely intervention’ during the 2025 conflict between India and Pakistan. Sharif also raised the Kashmir issue and referred to Pakistan's account of the May 2025 conflict, portraying Islamabad's actions during the confrontation as a success. During the speech, Indian diplomat R Srinivas was seen laughing as Sharif spoke about Pakistan's claimed ‘victory’ during the conflict. Sharif thanked Trump for his resolute and visionary leadership, saying the American leader's intervention saved hundreds of millions of lives in South Asia. Trump has repeatedly claimed, including in his address to the UN General Assembly this week, that he stopped the war between India and Pakistan. New Delhi has consistently denied any third-party intervention. Shehbaz Sharif raises Kashmir at UN India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, 2025, targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, in which 26 civilians were killed. In his roughly 23-minute address, Sharif argued that a ‘just and fair solution’ to the Kashmir issue was necessary to ensure South Asia does not return to the brink seen during the 2025 conflict. India has repeatedly rejected Pakistan's assertions on Kashmir at the UN General Assembly and other UN platforms. New Delhi maintains that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral and inalienable part of India. India is expected to exercise its Right of Reply to Sharif's address, as it has done in previous years, with a diplomat from India's Permanent Mission to the UN responding to Pakistan's remarks. Also Read: 'A terrorist country is asking me that question?': Jaishankar hits back at Pakistani journalist at UN; flags attacks on commercial shipping Watch the video here

<p>Shehbaz Sharif praises Donald Trump and claims Pakistan’s 2025 conflict victory at UN, as Indian diplomat R Srinivas is seen laughing during his speech</p>

WATCH | As Shehbaz Sharif claims Pakistan’s ‘victory’ during 2025 conflict, Indian diplomat R Srinivas laughs at UN

<p>External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar responded sharply to a journalist who questioned when the Indian government would stop sponsoring terrorism in Pakistan. “A terrorist country is asking me that question?” Jaishankar said in response. The exchange took place on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Following his response, Jaishankar and other delegates left the room while the journalist continued speaking. India has repeatedly maintained that Pakistani or Pakistan-based terrorist groups have been responsible for several attacks in India over the years. On April 22, 2025, terrorists based in Pakistan attacked the tourist town of Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir. The attack killed 26 people, including one Nepali national, and left several others injured.</p><h2>Watch the video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | 81st UNGA Session | &quot;A terrorist country is asking me that question,&quot; says EAM Dr S Jaishankar in response to a Pakistani’s attempt at heckling EAM with a terrorism ‘question’ <a href="https://t.co/wIfu9OUhfO">pic.twitter.com/wIfu9OUhfO</a></p>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2103485379852878208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Jaishankar raises concern over attacks on commercial ships</h2><p>During the 81st UN General Assembly session, Jaishankar also raised concerns over repeated attacks targeting commercial vessels and seafarers in the Gulf, Red Sea and Black Sea. Speaking at the ‘Group of Friends on Safety and Security of Shipping and Seafarers’, Jaishankar said India and Liberia had joined efforts to draw international attention to the safety and security of ships and seafarers. "We are gathered here this morning with a strong resolve on a very important issue. India, as a major source of seafarers, and Liberia, as the largest shipping registry, have come together to highlight the safety and security of shipping and seafarers," Jaishankar said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He referred to the recent attack on the Antigua and Barbuda-flagged bulk carrier MV Cape Dao in the Gulf of Oman, in which an Indian sailor was killed. "Just two days ago, an Antigua and Barbuda-flagged bulk carrier, MV Cape Dow, was attacked in the Gulf of Oman. An Indian sailor lost his life," he said. Jaishankar also cited the Panama-flagged oil tanker El Gaia, which was attacked in the Strait of Hormuz, resulting in an Indian crew member being reported missing.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/totally-unacceptable-trump-warns-xi-over-china-s-support-for-iran-1790356081107"><strong>‘Totally unacceptable’: Trump warns Xi over China’s support for Iran</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to Jaishankar, the incidents could no longer be considered isolated events, with commercial vessels and seafarers facing repeated attacks across important maritime routes. “These, regrettably, are no longer exceptional occurrences. In the last few months, commercial shipping and mariners have been subjected to repeated attacks in the Gulf, the Red Sea, and its vicinity," he said. The External Affairs Minister also highlighted attacks involving civilian vessels in the Black Sea, including MV Omorfi and MV Golden Leo.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“MV Omorfi was hit in Russian territorial waters on 18 July, and its chief officer, an Indian national, was killed. The following day, MV Golden Leo was struck after leaving Odessa, and four Indian seafarers lost their lives.” Jaishankar said the incidents had affected people from several countries, with seafarers of different nationalities among those killed or affected.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He stressed that attacks disrupting maritime trade and resulting in civilian deaths could not be justified and urged countries to cooperate in preventing further incidents. “These actions that disrupt maritime commerce and cost innocent lives are simply indefensible. We are here to not just highlight this dangerous trend, but to urge the international community to close ranks and deter such attacks,” he said.</p>

S Jaishankar responds to a terrorism question at the UN and flags growing attacks on commercial shipping and seafarers across key waterways

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar responded sharply to a journalist who questioned when the Indian government would stop sponsoring terrorism in Pakistan. “A terrorist country is asking me that question?” Jaishankar said in response. The exchange took place on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Following his response, Jaishankar and other delegates left the room while the journalist continued speaking. India has repeatedly maintained that Pakistani or Pakistan-based terrorist groups have been responsible for several attacks in India over the years. On April 22, 2025, terrorists based in Pakistan attacked the tourist town of Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir. The attack killed 26 people, including one Nepali national, and left several others injured. Watch the video here

<p>Jaishankar responds sharply to a terrorism question at the United Nations and raises concern over repeated attacks on commercial ships and Indian seafarers</p>

'A terrorist country is asking me that question?': Jaishankar hits back at Pakistani journalist at UN; flags attacks on commercial shipping

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticised Britain and France during his UNGA 2026 address, invoking their colonial past while defending Israel’s position on the ongoing conflict. His remarks came amid heightened international debate over Israel, Gaza and the broader Middle East crisis.


UNGA 2026: Israeli PM attacks Britain, France for past colonialism

<p>Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah has described the catastrophic floods that struck the country last month as a warning to the world, saying climate change is placing growing pressure on the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.</p><p>Addressing the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday (Sep 24), Shah said the disaster should not be viewed simply as a domestic tragedy, but as evidence of the wider risks posed by a warming planet.</p><p>The catastrophic Nepal flooding last month was “not just a local tragedy; it was a warning to the world,” Shah told the UN.</p><p>He said rising global temperatures were “destabilising the fragile Himalayan ecology”, with melting permafrost and glaciers adding to the risks faced by communities across the region.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/arrogant-parasites-milei-blasts-un-over-falklands-dispute-warns-argentina-will-take-matters-into-our-own-hands-1790216586682"><strong>'Arrogant parasites': Milei blasts UN over Falklands dispute, warns Argentina will ‘take matters into our own hands’</strong></a></p><p>According to World Weather Attribution (WWA) scientists, the event was a "compound crisis," involving local geological instability alongside sustained warming that has led to glacier retreat and permafrost thaw.</p><h2><strong>‘Nepal cannot build resilience alone’</strong></h2><p>Shah called for greater international support to help countries such as Nepal adapt to the effects of climate change.</p><p>He said developing resilience required resources that Nepal could not provide on its own, particularly when the crisis was being intensified by broader failures in global governance.</p><p>“Nepal cannot build resilience alone against a crisis made worse by the failure of global governance,” he said.</p><p>The prime minister's remarks come after devastating flooding in Nepal last month, which caused widespread destruction and deaths and triggered major rescue and relief operations across the country.</p><p>His appeal at the UN placed the disaster within the larger debate over climate adaptation and the disproportionate burden faced by vulnerable countries as extreme weather events intensify.</p><p>Shah urged the international community to share the financial burden of adaptation, arguing that Nepal and other climate-vulnerable countries need greater support to prepare for the risks posed by a changing climate.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-kind-of-confession-is-this-pakistan-pm-shehbaz-sharif-s-terrorists-would-be-roaming-new-york-remark-goes-viral-raises-alarm-online-watch-1790136284702"><strong>'What kind of confession is this?': Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif’s 'terrorists would be roaming New York' remark goes viral, raises alarm online. Watch</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Nepal floods: The massive toll</strong></h2><p>More than 1,400 people died, 6,000 are still missing, and the economic devastation of the tragic Nepal floods runs into the billions of dollars. Preliminary estimates by the Nepal government have put the cost of the disaster at $5 billion.&nbsp;</p><p>Nepal, as per AFP, has asked the UN's Loss and Damage fund for $20 million. This is the maximum allowed, but in reality only amounts to a tiny fraction of what Kathmandu needs.</p><p>Established in 2022 after catastrophic floods hit Pakistan, the fund remains without its first disbursement and suffers from severe underfunding, while Nepal is seen by observers as an important test case.</p>

Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah has told the UN that last month’s devastating Himalayan disaster was a “warning to the world”. He linked rising temperatures, glacier and permafrost changes to growing risks and called for greater international support.

Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah has described the catastrophic floods that struck the country last month as a warning to the world, saying climate change is placing growing pressure on the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. Addressing the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday (Sep 24), Shah said the disaster should not be viewed simply as a domestic tragedy, but as evidence of the wider risks posed by a warming planet. The catastrophic Nepal flooding last month was “not just a local tragedy; it was a warning to the world,” Shah told the UN. He said rising global temperatures were “destabilising the fragile Himalayan ecology”, with melting permafrost and glaciers adding to the risks faced by communities across the region. Also read | 'Arrogant parasites': Milei blasts UN over Falklands dispute, warns Argentina will ‘take matters into our own hands’ According to World Weather Attribution (WWA) scientists, the event was a "compound crisis," involving local geological instability alongside sustained warming that has led to glacier retreat and permafrost thaw. ‘Nepal cannot build resilience alone’ Shah called for greater international support to help countries such as Nepal adapt to the effects of climate change. He said developing resilience required resources that Nepal could not provide on its own, particularly when the crisis was being intensified by broader failures in global governance. “Nepal cannot build resilience alone against a crisis made worse by the failure of global governance,” he said. The prime minister's remarks come after devastating flooding in Nepal last month, which caused widespread destruction and deaths and triggered major rescue and relief operations across the country. His appeal at the UN placed the disaster within the larger debate over climate adaptation and the disproportionate burden faced by vulnerable countries as extreme weather events intensify. Shah urged the international community to share the financial burden of adaptation, arguing that Nepal and other climate-vulnerable countries need greater support to prepare for the risks posed by a changing climate. Also read | 'What kind of confession is this?': Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif’s 'terrorists would be roaming New York' remark goes viral, raises alarm online. Watch Nepal floods: The massive toll More than 1,400 people died, 6,000 are still missing, and the economic devastation of the tragic Nepal floods runs into the billions of dollars. Preliminary estimates by the Nepal government have put the cost of the disaster at $5 billion. Nepal, as per AFP, has asked the UN's Loss and Damage fund for $20 million. This is the maximum allowed, but in reality only amounts to a tiny fraction of what Kathmandu needs. Established in 2022 after catastrophic floods hit Pakistan, the fund remains without its first disbursement and suffers from severe underfunding, while Nepal is seen by observers as an important test case.

<p>Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah has told the UN that last month’s devastating Himalayan disaster was a “warning to the world”. He linked rising temperatures, glacier and permafrost changes to growing risks and called for greater international support.</p>

‘Not just a local tragedy’: Nepal PM Shah warns UN of growing climate threat, says Nepal floods were 'a warning to the world'

Netanyahu’s fiery UN speech sparks a mass walkout as he attacks Mamdani, Iran, Turkey, Britain and France. See the key moments in photos

<p>Benjamin Netanyahu’s fiery UN speech sparks a mass walkout as he attacks Mamdani, Iran, Turkey, Britain and France, while protesters gather outside the UN in New York</p>

Netanyahu at UN: Mass walkout, attack on Mamdani and Iran threats | In Pics

<p>Hundreds of protesters took to the streets outside the United Nations in New York on Thursday as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepared to address the General Assembly, with several people arrested as demonstrations disrupted traffic near the UN headquarters. The protest drew Jewish, Palestinian, Iranian and Lebanese New Yorkers, along with elected officials, political candidates and celebrities. Demonstrators wore shirts reading “Fund people not bombs” and chanted “Let Gaza live” and “the whole world is watching.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Protesters sat in the middle of the street for more than an hour, forcing official vehicles heading toward the UN to divert. Demonstrators also carried banners calling to “end the genocide” and flew a kite bearing the words “Free Palestine,” according to organizers. A separate demonstration was also planned for later Thursday afternoon, with organizers expecting another large turnout in Midtown Manhattan before a march toward the UN.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>On Wednesday, members of the Democratic Socialists of America’s New York City chapter also held a demonstration at John F. Kennedy International Airport over weapons and explosive materials destined for the Israeli military being transported on commercial aircraft. “What we made clear today is that New Yorkers, including Jewish New Yorkers, do not want war criminals and the architects of genocide coming to our city,” said Beth Miller, political director of Jewish Voice for Peace Action, which coordinated the first protest outside the UN. “This is something that we have been saying for years, especially over the last three years during which Israel has killed over 75,000 Palestinians in this genocide, and to be clear that is a severe undercount.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-would-all-be-dead-netanyahu-defends-decision-to-strike-iran-s-nuclear-facilities-in-his-un-speech-1790273216773"><strong>'We would all be dead': Netanyahu defends decision to strike Iran's nuclear facilities in his UN speech</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Protests have frequently accompanied Netanyahu’s appearances at the UN. This year’s demonstrations have taken place amid continuing debate in the United States over the Gaza war and US support for Israel. Actors Susan Sarandon and Caleb Hearon, along with whistleblower Chelsea Manning, were also among those detained by the NYPD, according to the report. The protests also drew several candidates and elected officials who have publicly criticized US policy toward Israel, including New York’s Darializa Avila Chevalier and Brad Lander, Pennsylvania’s Chris Rabb, New Jersey’s Adam Hamawy and Colorado’s Melat Kiros.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The NYPD did not immediately confirm the number of arrests. Organizers estimated that more than 100 people had been detained. The demonstrations also placed renewed attention on Mamdani, who had previously pledged to seek Netanyahu’s arrest if he came to New York but later acknowledged that the city does not have the legal authority to carry out such an arrest. He has continued to say that protesters have the right to demonstrate in the city.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“To New Yorkers, I have never encouraged them to protest, what I have always told them is that they have the right to do so in this city,” he said. “We respect that right and this is a city that is proud of the constitution and proud of the first amendment.” Mamdani’s relationship with Netanyahu has become a prominent part of the political debate surrounding the Israeli prime minister’s visit to New York. Netanyahu had said before the UN address that he would respond to Mamdani’s criticism and defend Israel’s actions.</p>

Hundreds protest outside the UN as Netanyahu addresses the General Assembly, with arrests, blocked streets and demonstrations over the Gaza war

Hundreds of protesters took to the streets outside the United Nations in New York on Thursday as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepared to address the General Assembly, with several people arrested as demonstrations disrupted traffic near the UN headquarters. The protest drew Jewish, Palestinian, Iranian and Lebanese New Yorkers, along with elected officials, political candidates and celebrities. Demonstrators wore shirts reading “Fund people not bombs” and chanted “Let Gaza live” and “the whole world is watching.” Protesters sat in the middle of the street for more than an hour, forcing official vehicles heading toward the UN to divert. Demonstrators also carried banners calling to “end the genocide” and flew a kite bearing the words “Free Palestine,” according to organizers. A separate demonstration was also planned for later Thursday afternoon, with organizers expecting another large turnout in Midtown Manhattan before a march toward the UN. On Wednesday, members of the Democratic Socialists of America’s New York City chapter also held a demonstration at John F. Kennedy International Airport over weapons and explosive materials destined for the Israeli military being transported on commercial aircraft. “What we made clear today is that New Yorkers, including Jewish New Yorkers, do not want war criminals and the architects of genocide coming to our city,” said Beth Miller, political director of Jewish Voice for Peace Action, which coordinated the first protest outside the UN. “This is something that we have been saying for years, especially over the last three years during which Israel has killed over 75,000 Palestinians in this genocide, and to be clear that is a severe undercount.” Also Read: 'We would all be dead': Netanyahu defends decision to strike Iran's nuclear facilities in his UN speech Protests have frequently accompanied Netanyahu’s appearances at the UN. This year’s demonstrations have taken place amid continuing debate in the United States over the Gaza war and US support for Israel. Actors Susan Sarandon and Caleb Hearon, along with whistleblower Chelsea Manning, were also among those detained by the NYPD, according to the report. The protests also drew several candidates and elected officials who have publicly criticized US policy toward Israel, including New York’s Darializa Avila Chevalier and Brad Lander, Pennsylvania’s Chris Rabb, New Jersey’s Adam Hamawy and Colorado’s Melat Kiros. The NYPD did not immediately confirm the number of arrests. Organizers estimated that more than 100 people had been detained. The demonstrations also placed renewed attention on Mamdani, who had previously pledged to seek Netanyahu’s arrest if he came to New York but later acknowledged that the city does not have the legal authority to carry out such an arrest. He has continued to say that protesters have the right to demonstrate in the city. “To New Yorkers, I have never encouraged them to protest, what I have always told them is that they have the right to do so in this city,” he said. “We respect that right and this is a city that is proud of the constitution and proud of the first amendment.” Mamdani’s relationship with Netanyahu has become a prominent part of the political debate surrounding the Israeli prime minister’s visit to New York. Netanyahu had said before the UN address that he would respond to Mamdani’s criticism and defend Israel’s actions.

<p>Hundreds protest Benjamin Netanyahu’s UN speech in New York, blocking streets as police make arrests amid demonstrations over Israel’s war in Gaza</p>

'Fund people, not bombs': Hundreds take to New York streets as Netanyahu delivers speech at UN; dozens arrested

<p>Dozens of envoys from around the world walked out of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech at the United Nations on Thursday in protest against the Israeli leader. Delegates jeered and booed as Netanyahu addressed the assembly, while members of his own team stood and applauded. "If there are any other moral cowards who haven't left this hall, please do so now," Netanyahu said. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu further said, “Devastating Iran’s nuclear facilities was hard. It was very hard to do. But for me, it was one of the easiest decisions I’ve ever had to make as prime minister, because if we hadn’t done it, we’d all be dead."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-s-on-the-menu-inside-trump-s-lavish-white-house-state-dinner-for-xiwhat-s-on-the-menu-inside-trump-s-lavish-white-house-state-dinner-for-xi-1790272198108"><strong>What’s on the menu? Inside Trump’s lavish White House state dinner for Xi</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Dozens of envoys walking out of Netanyahu's speech at UNGA</strong></h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">WATCH: Netanyahu is booed as he begins his UNGA speech, with many delegations walking out of the General Assembly hall. <a href="https://t.co/ldaiBQ0KFk">pic.twitter.com/ldaiBQ0KFk</a></p>&mdash; Clash Report (@clashreport) <a href="https://x.com/clashreport/status/2103184064752816303?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Netanyahu in his speech also described Israeli youths who target Palestinian communities in the occupied West Bank as 'juvenile delinquents' during his address to the United Nations. "What (the media) cover is a handful of young juvenile delinquents, about 150 in number, who go or throw stones, who chop down olive trees," Netanyahu said. “I can't stand that. I won't stand for vigilantism.”&nbsp;</p><h2>Many Jews feel unsafe in NY since Mamdani election: Bibi</h2><p>Netanyahu also claimed that ‘many Jews’ no longer feel safe in New York following the election of Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Addressing Mamdani, Netanyahu said, "Since you were elected mayor of this city, many Jews no longer feel safe in New York," he said. Netanyahu also accused Mamdani of repeatedly making what he described as a false allegation against Israel. "You falsely, repeatedly accuse Israel of genocide," he said.</p><h2>Netanyahu attacks Britain, France for past colonialism</h2><p>The Israel PM also attacked Britain and France for their past colonial empires during his speech at the United Nations. "They accuse Israel, tiny Israel, of colonialism, some colonialism. And who's accusing us? Among them are people in Britain and in France. For God's sakes, they invented the term," he said.</p><h2>Netanyahu calls Turkey's Erdogan ‘tyrant’</h2><p>Netanyahu called Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan a ‘tyrant’ during his speech at the United Nations, accusing Turkey of hosting Hamas leaders. "The latest country to become a super spreader of antisemitic lies (is Turkey)... Erdogan is a tyrant. He also hosts the Hamas terror chiefs," he said.</p>

Dozens of envoys walk out of Netanyahu’s UN speech as delegates jeer and boo, while his team applauds and the Palestinian delegation backs the protest

Dozens of envoys from around the world walked out of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech at the United Nations on Thursday in protest against the Israeli leader. Delegates jeered and booed as Netanyahu addressed the assembly, while members of his own team stood and applauded. "If there are any other moral cowards who haven't left this hall, please do so now," Netanyahu said. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu further said, “Devastating Iran’s nuclear facilities was hard. It was very hard to do. But for me, it was one of the easiest decisions I’ve ever had to make as prime minister, because if we hadn’t done it, we’d all be dead." Also Read: What’s on the menu? Inside Trump’s lavish White House state dinner for Xi Dozens of envoys walking out of Netanyahu's speech at UNGA

<p>Dozens of envoys walked out of Netanyahu’s UN speech as delegates jeered and booed, while his team applauded and the session speaker called for order</p>

'We would all be dead': Netanyahu defends decision to strike Iran's nuclear facilities in his UN speech

<p>Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa told the UN General Assembly on Wednesday (Sep 23) that the Golan Heights will remain Syrian despite Israel's claims over the strategically important territory. He demanded that Israeli forces withdraw and warned that attempts to violate Syrian sovereignty would be stopped. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz rejected the remarks, saying the Golan under Israeli sovereignty is an inseparable part of the State of Israel forever.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/al-sharaa-attempt-to-violate-syrian-sovereignty-will-be-opposed-1790228993757/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/al-sharaa-attempt-to-violate-syrian-sovereignty-will-be-opposed-1790228993757/embed</a>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Israel captured the Golan Heights from Syria in 1967 and annexed it in 1981. Al-Sharaa invoked UN Security Council Resolution 497, which declares Israel's 1981 decision to impose its laws and administration on the territory "null and void". The UN maintains that the plateau is Syrian territory under Israeli military occupation.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Recognition of Israel's claim remains rare. The US was the only country to recognise the annexation until Colombia's new government did so in August. Trump formally recognised Israeli sovereignty in 2019. Al-Sharaa said he told Trump directly that he had no right to do so. He also noted that 123 countries backed a UN General Assembly resolution on the occupied Syrian Golan in December 2025.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/secret-reactor-in-syria-could-have-been-used-for-nuclear-weapons-says-iaea-after-finding-73-tonnes-of-natural-uranium-1788812570475"><strong>‘Secret reactor in Syria could have been used for nuclear weapons,’ says IAEA after finding 73 tonnes of natural uranium</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The plateau is small but strategic. Its elevation gives whoever holds it a commanding view over northern Israel and the road to Damascus, which lies roughly 60 km away. Mount Hermon at its northern edge offers valuable surveillance. The Golan also feeds water sources, including the Jordan River and the Sea of Galilee, and it supports agriculture and settlements. Israel says giving it up would leave its north exposed, while Syria sees its return as a matter of sovereignty and national pride.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-is-great-trump-hails-syria-s-push-for-alternative-to-strait-of-hormuz-amid-us-iran-war-1788487903144"><strong>'This is great': Trump hails Syria's push for alternative to Strait of Hormuz amid US-Iran war</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Al-Sharaa said Israel has carried out around 500 air strikes, more than 1,200 incursions and 300 detentions in Syria since Bashar al-Assad's fall. He said Syria and Israel had held several rounds of direct talks, some facilitated by the US, and reached "almost 90% of agreements" before Israel pulled back or added new conditions. He said an opportunity for a just peace remains available. With Israel firm on sovereignty and Damascus refusing to concede, the Golan remains a central obstacle to any Syria-Israel settlement.&nbsp;</p>

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa declared at the UN General Assembly that the Golan Heights "will remain Syrian." Here is a breakdown of his claims, the Trump exchange, and why the disputed plateau matters.

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa told the UN General Assembly on Wednesday (Sep 23) that the Golan Heights will remain Syrian despite Israel's claims over the strategically important territory. He demanded that Israeli forces withdraw and warned that attempts to violate Syrian sovereignty would be stopped. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz rejected the remarks, saying the Golan under Israeli sovereignty is an inseparable part of the State of Israel forever. https://www.wionews.com/videos/al-sharaa-attempt-to-violate-syrian-sovereignty-will-be-opposed-1790228993757/embed Israel captured the Golan Heights from Syria in 1967 and annexed it in 1981. Al-Sharaa invoked UN Security Council Resolution 497, which declares Israel's 1981 decision to impose its laws and administration on the territory "null and void". The UN maintains that the plateau is Syrian territory under Israeli military occupation. Recognition of Israel's claim remains rare. The US was the only country to recognise the annexation until Colombia's new government did so in August. Trump formally recognised Israeli sovereignty in 2019. Al-Sharaa said he told Trump directly that he had no right to do so. He also noted that 123 countries backed a UN General Assembly resolution on the occupied Syrian Golan in December 2025. Also read: ‘Secret reactor in Syria could have been used for nuclear weapons,’ says IAEA after finding 73 tonnes of natural uranium The plateau is small but strategic. Its elevation gives whoever holds it a commanding view over northern Israel and the road to Damascus, which lies roughly 60 km away. Mount Hermon at its northern edge offers valuable surveillance. The Golan also feeds water sources, including the Jordan River and the Sea of Galilee, and it supports agriculture and settlements. Israel says giving it up would leave its north exposed, while Syria sees its return as a matter of sovereignty and national pride. Also read: 'This is great': Trump hails Syria's push for alternative to Strait of Hormuz amid US-Iran war Al-Sharaa said Israel has carried out around 500 air strikes, more than 1,200 incursions and 300 detentions in Syria since Bashar al-Assad's fall. He said Syria and Israel had held several rounds of direct talks, some facilitated by the US, and reached "almost 90% of agreements" before Israel pulled back or added new conditions. He said an opportunity for a just peace remains available. With Israel firm on sovereignty and Damascus refusing to concede, the Golan remains a central obstacle to any Syria-Israel settlement.

<p>Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa declared at the UN General Assembly that the Golan Heights "will remain Syrian." Here is a breakdown of his claims, the Trump exchange, and why the disputed plateau matters.</p>

Golan Heights ‘will remain Syrian,’ says al-Sharaa: Why the plateau matters

<p>Argentine President Javier Milei has accused the United Nations of failing to enforce its own resolutions on the Falkland Islands, warning that Buenos Aires will not simply wait for international institutions to act as a dispute with Britain intensifies over offshore oil exploration. Attacking the world body, Milei said it was a "useless organisation" filled with "arrogant parasites."</p><p>Speaking at the 81st UN General Assembly in New York on Wednesday(Sep 23), Milei said the UN had “looked the other way” on the sovereignty dispute over the islands, which Argentina calls the Malvinas. His comments came as his government stepped up action against companies linked to the Sea Lion oil project in the North Falkland Basin.</p><p>“Argentina is not going to sit around waiting for the UN and the international community to live up to their own mandate,” Milei warned. “We’re going to take matters into our own hands.”</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-kind-of-confession-is-this-pakistan-pm-shehbaz-sharif-s-terrorists-would-be-roaming-new-york-remark-goes-viral-raises-alarm-online-watch-1790136284702"><strong>'What kind of confession is this?': Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif’s 'terrorists would be roaming New York' remark goes viral, raises alarm online. Watch</strong></a></p><p>He accused those involved in exploiting the islands' natural resources of acting under an “illegal foreign occupation” and said Argentina would not remain indifferent to such activity.</p><h2><strong>Argentina targets Sea Lion oil project</strong></h2><p>The escalation is focused on the Sea Lion project, an offshore development roughly 220 kilometres north of the Falkland Islands. The Falkland Islands Government approved the development programme in 2025, while operator Navitas Petroleum and partner Rockhopper Exploration subsequently took final investment decisions. The companies say the project remains on track, with first oil currently planned for the first half of 2028.</p><p>Milei's government has already begun sanctions proceedings against more than 60 companies and individuals connected to the project. Argentina has also introduced legislation seeking to expand penalties for activities it considers unauthorised in areas it claims as part of its territory.</p><p>The companies involved maintain that they have valid licences from the Falkland Islands authorities and intend to continue with the development.</p><h2><strong>What does the UN resolution say?</strong></h2><p>Milei's criticism rests partly on UN General Assembly Resolution 31/49, adopted in December 1976. The resolution called on Argentina and Britain to refrain from taking unilateral decisions that would alter the situation while sovereignty negotiations were under way. It also urged the two sides to resolve the dispute peacefully through negotiations.</p><p>Britain disputes Argentina's interpretation of that resolution and has argued that offshore hydrocarbon activity authorised by the Falkland Islands Government does not amount to unilateral action by the UK. In UN documents, Britain has also stressed that it respects the wishes of the islanders.</p><p>The UN itself does not recognise either British or Argentine sovereignty over the islands. Instead, the organisation treats the Falklands/Malvinas as a sovereignty dispute and has repeatedly called on the parties to find a peaceful solution.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-ai-super-intelligence-at-un-as-world-leaders-clash-over-how-to-regulate-it-1790129701998"><strong>Trump calls AI ‘Super Intelligence’ at UN as world leaders clash over how to regulate it</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Milei rejects islanders' self-determination claim</strong></h2><p>A central disagreement is over the principle of self-determination. Falkland Islanders have repeatedly expressed support for remaining a British territory. In a 2013 referendum, 99.8 per cent of voters backed retaining the islands' existing status, on a turnout of 92 per cent.</p><p>Milei rejected the relevance of that principle to the sovereignty question, arguing that the current population was established under British rule. “We call on the United Kingdom to resume negotiations with a view to finding a peaceful solution to the sovereignty dispute as required by international law,” he said.</p><p>Britain, for its part, has consistently maintained that the islanders' right to self-determination should be respected.</p><h2><strong>Trump adds another layer to dispute</strong></h2><p>The Falklands issue has gained additional attention because US President Donald Trump has recently indicated that Washington is reviewing its long-standing neutral position on the dispute.</p><p>The subject also featured in Trump's first meeting this week with British Prime Minister Andy Burnham. Burnham said Britain would defend the Falkland Islanders' right to self-determination and their status as British.</p>

Argentine President Javier Milei has sharply criticised the UN over the Falklands/Malvinas dispute and warned that Argentina will not simply wait for international action. His remarks come as Buenos Aires steps up pressure over the Sea Lion offshore oil project.

Argentine President Javier Milei has accused the United Nations of failing to enforce its own resolutions on the Falkland Islands, warning that Buenos Aires will not simply wait for international institutions to act as a dispute with Britain intensifies over offshore oil exploration. Attacking the world body, Milei said it was a "useless organisation" filled with "arrogant parasites." Speaking at the 81st UN General Assembly in New York on Wednesday(Sep 23), Milei said the UN had “looked the other way” on the sovereignty dispute over the islands, which Argentina calls the Malvinas. His comments came as his government stepped up action against companies linked to the Sea Lion oil project in the North Falkland Basin. “Argentina is not going to sit around waiting for the UN and the international community to live up to their own mandate,” Milei warned. “We’re going to take matters into our own hands.” Also read | 'What kind of confession is this?': Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif’s 'terrorists would be roaming New York' remark goes viral, raises alarm online. Watch He accused those involved in exploiting the islands' natural resources of acting under an “illegal foreign occupation” and said Argentina would not remain indifferent to such activity. Argentina targets Sea Lion oil project The escalation is focused on the Sea Lion project, an offshore development roughly 220 kilometres north of the Falkland Islands. The Falkland Islands Government approved the development programme in 2025, while operator Navitas Petroleum and partner Rockhopper Exploration subsequently took final investment decisions. The companies say the project remains on track, with first oil currently planned for the first half of 2028. Milei's government has already begun sanctions proceedings against more than 60 companies and individuals connected to the project. Argentina has also introduced legislation seeking to expand penalties for activities it considers unauthorised in areas it claims as part of its territory. The companies involved maintain that they have valid licences from the Falkland Islands authorities and intend to continue with the development. What does the UN resolution say? Milei's criticism rests partly on UN General Assembly Resolution 31/49, adopted in December 1976. The resolution called on Argentina and Britain to refrain from taking unilateral decisions that would alter the situation while sovereignty negotiations were under way. It also urged the two sides to resolve the dispute peacefully through negotiations. Britain disputes Argentina's interpretation of that resolution and has argued that offshore hydrocarbon activity authorised by the Falkland Islands Government does not amount to unilateral action by the UK. In UN documents, Britain has also stressed that it respects the wishes of the islanders. The UN itself does not recognise either British or Argentine sovereignty over the islands. Instead, the organisation treats the Falklands/Malvinas as a sovereignty dispute and has repeatedly called on the parties to find a peaceful solution. Also read | Trump calls AI ‘Super Intelligence’ at UN as world leaders clash over how to regulate it Milei rejects islanders' self-determination claim A central disagreement is over the principle of self-determination. Falkland Islanders have repeatedly expressed support for remaining a British territory. In a 2013 referendum, 99.8 per cent of voters backed retaining the islands' existing status, on a turnout of 92 per cent. Milei rejected the relevance of that principle to the sovereignty question, arguing that the current population was established under British rule. “We call on the United Kingdom to resume negotiations with a view to finding a peaceful solution to the sovereignty dispute as required by international law,” he said. Britain, for its part, has consistently maintained that the islanders' right to self-determination should be respected. Trump adds another layer to dispute The Falklands issue has gained additional attention because US President Donald Trump has recently indicated that Washington is reviewing its long-standing neutral position on the dispute. The subject also featured in Trump's first meeting this week with British Prime Minister Andy Burnham. Burnham said Britain would defend the Falkland Islanders' right to self-determination and their status as British.

<p>Argentine President Javier Milei has sharply criticised the UN over the Falklands/Malvinas dispute and warned that Argentina will not simply wait for international action. His remarks come as Buenos Aires steps up pressure over the Sea Lion offshore oil project.</p>

'Arrogant parasites': Milei blasts UN over Falklands dispute, warns Argentina will ‘take matters into our own hands’

<p>Venezuela's interim leader Delcy Rodriguez thanked US President Donald Trump for restoring diplomatic ties with Caracas and told the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday (September 23) that ‘there will be elections’ in the country. Rodriguez took over as interim leader after President Nicolas Maduro was ousted by US forces in January. Since then, she has worked closely with Washington during Venezuela's political transition.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Addressing the UN General Assembly in New York, Rodriguez thanked the Trump administration ‘for their willingness to resume the path of diplomatic relations and cooperation with Venezuela.’ "I want to state this very clearly before this General Assembly: there will be elections in Venezuela," she said, without providing a timeline for the vote. Rodriguez did not mention the US military operation in Caracas that removed Maduro from power. Instead, she focused her address on Venezuela's transition toward what she described as a 'stage of democracy'.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-extend-trade-truce-by-two-months-as-xi-jinping-arrives-for-high-stakes-summit-with-trump-1790203832042"><strong>US, China extend trade truce by two months as Xi Jinping arrives for high-stakes summit with Trump</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Her comments come as Venezuelans await clarity over the country's political future. Hopes had grown that US-backed talks between the interim government and sections of the opposition could eventually pave the way for a democratic election. Those expectations weakened in early September, however, after Trump, speaking shortly after reaching a major oil agreement with Caracas, dismissed the possibility of elections taking place in the near future.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Rodriguez also echoed those comments at the time. During her visit to New York, Rodriguez has held meetings with International Monetary Fund executives and several world leaders, including Trump. Maduro was the last Venezuelan leader to address the UN General Assembly, doing so in 2018.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-is-always-looking-for-someone-who-can-help-him-kill-more-zelensky-accuses-russian-president-of-using-fighters-from-47-nations-in-ukraine-war-1790191326006"><strong>'Putin is patient zero': Zelensky slams Russian president at UNGA, accuses him of using fighters from 47 countries</strong></a></p>

Venezuela interim leader Delcy Rodriguez tells the UN there will be elections as Caracas restores diplomatic ties with Trump's US

Venezuela's interim leader Delcy Rodriguez thanked US President Donald Trump for restoring diplomatic ties with Caracas and told the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday (September 23) that ‘there will be elections’ in the country. Rodriguez took over as interim leader after President Nicolas Maduro was ousted by US forces in January. Since then, she has worked closely with Washington during Venezuela's political transition. Addressing the UN General Assembly in New York, Rodriguez thanked the Trump administration ‘for their willingness to resume the path of diplomatic relations and cooperation with Venezuela.’ "I want to state this very clearly before this General Assembly: there will be elections in Venezuela," she said, without providing a timeline for the vote. Rodriguez did not mention the US military operation in Caracas that removed Maduro from power. Instead, she focused her address on Venezuela's transition toward what she described as a 'stage of democracy'. Also Read: US, China extend trade truce by two months as Xi Jinping arrives for high-stakes summit with Trump Her comments come as Venezuelans await clarity over the country's political future. Hopes had grown that US-backed talks between the interim government and sections of the opposition could eventually pave the way for a democratic election. Those expectations weakened in early September, however, after Trump, speaking shortly after reaching a major oil agreement with Caracas, dismissed the possibility of elections taking place in the near future. Rodriguez also echoed those comments at the time. During her visit to New York, Rodriguez has held meetings with International Monetary Fund executives and several world leaders, including Trump. Maduro was the last Venezuelan leader to address the UN General Assembly, doing so in 2018. Also Read: 'Putin is patient zero': Zelensky slams Russian president at UNGA, accuses him of using fighters from 47 countries

<p>Venezuela's interim leader Delcy Rodriguez told the UN that ‘there will be elections’ as Caracas seeks closer ties with Donald Trump's United States</p>

'There will be elections': Venezuela's interim leader Delcy Rodriguez makes big announcement at UN

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of relying on fighters from dozens of countries to support Moscow’s war against Ukraine. Speaking at the United Nations, Zelensky said Russia was using citizens from 47 countries in the conflict, citing people from nations including Ghana, Nepal and India. "Putin is always looking for someone who can help him kill more, kill more people for every kilometer of land, take more territory and take another country instead of simply stopping and running his own country," Zelensky said at the UN.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"We know that Russia uses citizens of 47 countries in its war," he added, pointing to citizens of countries from Ghana, Nepal, and India who had been caught up in the conflict. Zelensky also highlighted Russia's growing military relationship with North Korea, saying two North Korean soldiers captured while fighting against Ukraine had been sent to South Korea. "Recently, we sent two North Korean prisoners of war to the Republic of Korea. These guys are not easy to capture alive," he added. International governments have previously raised concerns over North Korean military support for Russia, including the deployment of North Korean troops for use on the battlefield in Ukraine.</p><h2>Ukraine expands international drone cooperation</h2><p>Zelensky also used his UN address to highlight Ukraine's growing cooperation with international partners on drone technology. Ukraine has increasingly positioned its drone industry and battlefield experience as areas for international cooperation, with Kyiv pursuing agreements covering drone production, technology and defence capabilities. Ukrainian officials have described its ‘Drone Deal’ initiative as a framework for long-term cooperation with partner countries.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"We are already working with partners in the Gulf, the South Caucasus, and across Europe through drone deals. Today, I signed a drone deal, a serious drone deal, with Finland," he said. “Also today, I signed (a) security agreement with Australia, and drones are part of it too.” Zelensky added that Kyiv was also preparing a drone agreement with Canada.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ai-got-into-my-speech-prince-harry-jokes-after-teleprompter-failure-at-event-in-new-york-1790188039865"><strong>'AI got into my speech': Prince Harry jokes after teleprompter failure at event in New York</strong></a></p><h2>Watch Zelensky speaking at UNGA</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Zelensky:<br><br>We know that Russia uses citizens of 47 countries in its war in Ukraine — Ghana, Nepal, Tajikistan, India, Yemen, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Cuba, Belarus, Sudan, South Africa, and many, many others.<br><br>I want to speak directly to every representative of these 47 countries: you… <a href="https://t.co/biZOMLBUk4">pic.twitter.com/biZOMLBUk4</a></p>&mdash; Clash Report (@clashreport) <a href="https://x.com/clashreport/status/2102826143800050121?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Zelensky warns of winter energy attacks</h2><p>The Ukrainian president also warned that Kyiv could target Russian heating and energy infrastructure during the coming winter, saying Ukraine could respond to Russian attacks on its own energy and heating facilities. "Ukrainians understand that this winter could be very harsh for us, but in response we will have no choice but to make it painful for Russia too," he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Russia has repeatedly targeted Ukrainian energy infrastructure during the war, while Ukraine has also carried out attacks against Russian energy-related facilities. Zelensky's remarks came hours after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington was pushing Russia and Ukraine to stop attacks on each other's energy infrastructure.</p><h2>Zelensky says Russia's war revenues are a target</h2><p>Zelensky also said Ukraine's objective was not simply to destroy Russia's fuel supplies, but to reduce the revenues Moscow uses to finance its war effort. "When someone gives Russia more money through trade, they give this war more time. That is exactly why we insist on limiting trade with the aggressor, and why we are burning Russia's revenues ourselves," he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“The longer Putin is able to wage war, the more evil he will leave behind in this world.” Zelensky's comments came amid continuing international efforts to address the Russia-Ukraine conflict, including discussions over energy infrastructure, sanctions, military cooperation and possible diplomatic pathways.</p>

Zelensky accuses Putin of using fighters from 47 countries, discusses North Korean troops, drone deals and Ukraine's response to Russia's energy attacks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of relying on fighters from dozens of countries to support Moscow’s war against Ukraine. Speaking at the United Nations, Zelensky said Russia was using citizens from 47 countries in the conflict, citing people from nations including Ghana, Nepal and India. "Putin is always looking for someone who can help him kill more, kill more people for every kilometer of land, take more territory and take another country instead of simply stopping and running his own country," Zelensky said at the UN. "We know that Russia uses citizens of 47 countries in its war," he added, pointing to citizens of countries from Ghana, Nepal, and India who had been caught up in the conflict. Zelensky also highlighted Russia's growing military relationship with North Korea, saying two North Korean soldiers captured while fighting against Ukraine had been sent to South Korea. "Recently, we sent two North Korean prisoners of war to the Republic of Korea. These guys are not easy to capture alive," he added. International governments have previously raised concerns over North Korean military support for Russia, including the deployment of North Korean troops for use on the battlefield in Ukraine. Ukraine expands international drone cooperation Zelensky also used his UN address to highlight Ukraine's growing cooperation with international partners on drone technology. Ukraine has increasingly positioned its drone industry and battlefield experience as areas for international cooperation, with Kyiv pursuing agreements covering drone production, technology and defence capabilities. Ukrainian officials have described its ‘Drone Deal’ initiative as a framework for long-term cooperation with partner countries. "We are already working with partners in the Gulf, the South Caucasus, and across Europe through drone deals. Today, I signed a drone deal, a serious drone deal, with Finland," he said. “Also today, I signed (a) security agreement with Australia, and drones are part of it too.” Zelensky added that Kyiv was also preparing a drone agreement with Canada. Also Read: 'AI got into my speech': Prince Harry jokes after teleprompter failure at event in New York Watch Zelensky speaking at UNGA

<p>Zelensky accused Putin of using fighters from 47 countries, highlights North Korean troops and warns of further strikes on Russia's energy sector</p>

'Putin is patient zero': Zelensky slams Russian president at UNGA, accuses him of using fighters from 47 countries

<p>A remark made by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the United Nations is doing the rounds on social media, raising alarm. Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly 2025, the Pakistan PM had stated, “Had these terrorists not been encountered by us, they would have been roaming on the streets of New York and London.”</p><p>The remark has now resurfaced ahead of his scheduled address to the 81st UN General Assembly, with users raising questions over what they see as an extraordinary description of Pakistan's confession on terrorism.</p><p>Notably, the clip being widely shared is not from the 81st UNGA in 2026. Sharif is scheduled to address the General Assembly on September 25 this year. The viral excerpt is from his speech to the 80th UN General Assembly on September 26, 2025. The official UN transcript confirms the wording.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-at-unga-india-pushes-for-reformed-multilateralism-reforms-to-global-institutions-1790046860281"><strong>India at UNGA81: Jaishankar warns global order under 'growing stress', pushes for ‘reformed multilateralism’</strong></a></p><h2><strong>What did Sharif say about Pakistan and terrorism?</strong></h2><p>Speaking about Pakistan's counterterrorism record during last year's address, Sharif said: “Had these terrorists not been encountered by us, they would have been roaming on the streets of New York and London and God knows, Far East.”</p><p>He presented Pakistan as a “bulwark” against terrorism and described its counterterrorism efforts as a contribution to people beyond Pakistan. The remarks were made while he was arguing that Pakistan had suffered heavily from terrorism and had been on the frontline of the global fight against it.</p><h2><strong>‘What kind of confession is this?’: Social media reacts</strong></h2><p>The resurfaced clip has triggered a stream of reactions with users questioning the wording used by the Pakistani prime minister.</p><p>One widely shared post described the remark as an “admission” that terrorists were present in Pakistan and would otherwise have reached cities such as New York and London.</p><p>Another user wrote: “Wait… what kind of confession is this?” The post focused on Sharif's use of the phrase “encountered by us”, asking whether this meant terrorists were being “controlled” inside Pakistan and what that implied about their presence there.</p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">PM of Pakistan confirms: <br><br>&gt; Pakistan has terrorists. <br>&gt; Pakistan controls terrorists.<br>&gt; Pak prevents terrorists from roaming NYC, London, Far East.<br><br>Why Pak as terrorists? Because Pak creates these terrorists to use them in and against India. <a href="https://t.co/LIEKEcYUko">pic.twitter.com/LIEKEcYUko</a></p>&mdash; Aravind (@aravind) <a href="https://x.com/aravind/status/2102445176392462497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

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<p>Other posts went further, asking whether “control” could be interpreted as tolerance, containment, safe haven, funding, training or use as an instrument of state policy.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-indian-army-on-high-alert-after-suspected-pakistani-drone-sighting-over-loc-in-rajouri-1787968541113"><strong>Jammu and Kashmir: Indian army on high alert after suspected Pakistani drone sighting over LoC in Rajouri</strong></a></p><h2><strong>What Sharif said before the viral line</strong></h2><p>Sharif first said Pakistan condemned terrorism “in all its forms and manifestations” and claimed that the country had been at the frontline of global counterterrorism efforts for more than two decades. He said Pakistan had suffered more than 90,000 deaths and $150 billion in economic losses.</p><p>He then argued that terrorism crossed national boundaries, saying a person killed in New York was comparable to one killed in Lahore and that terrorism had to be defeated globally. It was immediately after this argument that he said terrorists, had they not been “encountered” by Pakistan, could have been roaming the streets of New York and London.</p><p>Sharif subsequently shifted to what he described as Pakistan's current problem of “externally sponsored terrorism”, naming groups including the TTP, BLA and Majeed Brigade and accusing them of operating from Afghan territory.</p><h2><strong>India has long raised the issue of cross-border terrorism</strong></h2><p>The resurfaced remark is particularly sensitive in India because New Delhi has repeatedly accused Pakistan of supporting or sheltering cross-border terrorist networks.</p><p>In a UN right-of-reply statement in October 2025, India's Permanent Mission to the UN said the international community had witnessed Pakistan's alleged sponsorship of cross-border terrorism and accused Islamabad of using terrorism as a tool of state policy directed against India.</p><p>India has also made a broader case at the UN for holding not only perpetrators but also financiers and sponsors of terrorism accountable. Its stated position for the 81st UNGA includes opposition to double standards in counterterrorism.</p><h2><strong>Viral clip comes before Sharif’s 2026 UNGA address</strong></h2><p>Sharif arrived in New York this week for the 81st UN General Assembly. Pakistan's government says his September 25 speech will address regional and global security, terrorism, climate change, development and other international issues. That makes the resurfacing of the 2025 clip particularly notable. Social media users are now scrutinising the old remarks ahead of Sharif's appearance.<br>&nbsp;</p>

A remark by Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif about terrorists “roaming” the streets of New York and London has resurfaced on social media ahead of his UNGA81 address. But what exactly did he say, and when was it actually spoken? All you need to know.

A remark made by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the United Nations is doing the rounds on social media, raising alarm. Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly 2025, the Pakistan PM had stated, “Had these terrorists not been encountered by us, they would have been roaming on the streets of New York and London.” The remark has now resurfaced ahead of his scheduled address to the 81st UN General Assembly, with users raising questions over what they see as an extraordinary description of Pakistan's confession on terrorism. Notably, the clip being widely shared is not from the 81st UNGA in 2026. Sharif is scheduled to address the General Assembly on September 25 this year. The viral excerpt is from his speech to the 80th UN General Assembly on September 26, 2025. The official UN transcript confirms the wording. Also read | India at UNGA81: Jaishankar warns global order under 'growing stress', pushes for ‘reformed multilateralism’ What did Sharif say about Pakistan and terrorism? Speaking about Pakistan's counterterrorism record during last year's address, Sharif said: “Had these terrorists not been encountered by us, they would have been roaming on the streets of New York and London and God knows, Far East.” He presented Pakistan as a “bulwark” against terrorism and described its counterterrorism efforts as a contribution to people beyond Pakistan. The remarks were made while he was arguing that Pakistan had suffered heavily from terrorism and had been on the frontline of the global fight against it. ‘What kind of confession is this?’: Social media reacts The resurfaced clip has triggered a stream of reactions with users questioning the wording used by the Pakistani prime minister. One widely shared post described the remark as an “admission” that terrorists were present in Pakistan and would otherwise have reached cities such as New York and London. Another user wrote: “Wait… what kind of confession is this?” The post focused on Sharif's use of the phrase “encountered by us”, asking whether this meant terrorists were being “controlled” inside Pakistan and what that implied about their presence there.

<p>A remark by Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif about terrorists “roaming” the streets of New York and London has resurfaced on social media ahead of his UNGA81 address. But what exactly did he say, and when was it actually spoken? All you need to know.</p>

'What kind of confession is this?': Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif’s 'terrorists would be roaming New York' remark goes viral, raises alarm online. Watch

<p>The United Nations General Assembly is currently hosting its 81st session and the highly anticipated annual High-Level General Debate commenced on Tuesday (Sep 22) bringing world leaders together under the overarching theme: "Restoring trust, managing transformation: a United Nations that delivers for all." For long, the platform for formal diplomacy has witnessed marathon speeches, fiery exchanges, dramatic protests and moments that in today's social media world are called ‘viral.’ As the 81st UNGA gets underway in New York, world leaders are once again taking centre stage to address conflicts, international crises and pressing global challenges. Here's a list of a few viral moments at the UNGA: From Fidel Castro’s record-setting 4-hour-29-minute address in 1960 to Nikita Khrushchev’s fiery protests, Hugo Chávez’s infamous “devil” remark and Muammar Gaddafi’s dramatic UN Charter stunt. Adding to the list of these memorable moments is Donald Trump’s “Rocket Man” speech, Benjamin Netanyahu’s cartoon bomb and Gilad Erdan’s paper-shredding protest.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/erdogan-again-raises-kashmir-issue-at-unga-calls-for-dialogue-under-un-charter-1790095257205">Erdogan again raises Kashmir issue at UNGA, calls for dialogue under UN Charter</a></p><h2>1. Fidel Castro’s 4.5-Hour Marathon (1960)</h2><p>The prize for the longest speech in UNGA history goes to Cuban leader Fidel Castro. During his maiden address, Castro spoke for a 4 hours and 29 minutes. He used the time to target American imperialism, insult US political figures, and outline the ideology of the Cuban Revolution.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>WATCH here&nbsp;</strong></p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🚨⚡️ THROWBACK: Fidel Castro’s legendary 269-minute UN speech — the longest in history.<br><br>As today’s UNGA meets, recall when Castro held the floor for 4.5 hours, blasting US imperialism, denouncing its meddling in Latin America, and exposing Washington’s backing of dictatorships. <a href="https://t.co/LgJuGq0WFC">pic.twitter.com/LgJuGq0WFC</a></p>&mdash; RussiaNews 🇷🇺 (@mog_russEN) <a href="https://x.com/mog_russEN/status/1970477366867878103?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>2. Nikita Khrushchev’s Fist-Banging and Protests (1960)</h2><p>In 1960 session, Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev, delivered one of the most energetic speech from a Filipino delegate critiquing Soviet imperialism in Eastern Europe, Khrushchev famously banged his fists violently on his desk. This session also gave rise to the enduring historical legend of Khrushchev waving and slamming his own shoe to disrupt the assembly.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Today in 1960-in one of the oddest moments in the history of the <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/ColdWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ColdWar</a>-USSR leader Nikita Khrushchev pounded his fist on the table, and according to some reports, removed his shoe and threatened to pound a table with it in protest against a UN speech critical of Soviet policy. <a href="https://t.co/tR7Rm6k7XX">pic.twitter.com/tR7Rm6k7XX</a></p>&mdash; Dr. Paul (@DrPnygard) <a href="https://x.com/DrPnygard/status/1712560813926469830?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>3. Hugo Chávez Smells "The Devil" (2006)</h2><p>In one of the most theatrical insults ever delivered from the podium, Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez took aim at US President George W Bush. Stepping up to the microphone the day after Bush had spoken, Chávez crossed himself and declared, "The devil came here yesterday. Right here. And it smells like sulfur still today." The clip remains one of the most widely shared clips.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez stood at the UN General Assembly rostrum and gave his historic speech where he called US President George W. Bush the devil 17 years ago today. Chávez warned about US imperialism, “which puts the survival of humanity at risk.” <a href="https://t.co/4hJhIuCScM">pic.twitter.com/4hJhIuCScM</a></p>&mdash; Hüseyin Dogru (@hussedogru_) <a href="https://x.com/hussedogru_/status/1704896075885322695?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>4. Muammar Gaddafi Tears Up the UN Charter (2009)</h2><p>Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi used his 2009 UNGA debut to deliver a 100-minute speech that blew past his 15-minute time limit. He openly condemned the UN Security Council, labelling it a "Terror Council," and claimed superpowers treated other nations like second-class citizens. He physically tore a page of the UN Charter and tossed it over his shoulder in open defiance.&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🚨 Former Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi&#39;s speech at the UNGA was also exemplary, questioning how the preamble to the UN charter was contradicted by the contents.<br><br>Listen 🔊 <a href="https://t.co/SewBjEg6hV">pic.twitter.com/SewBjEg6hV</a></p>&mdash; African News (@SaharaWire) <a href="https://x.com/SaharaWire/status/2101908884982022496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>&nbsp;</p><h2>5. Benjamin Netanyahu’s Cartoon Bomb (2012)</h2><p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visually demonstrated how close Iran was to developing nuclear weapons. Netanyahu pulled out a large, literal cartoon drawing of a bomb with a burning fuse. He then drew a thick red line with a marker across the diagram to illustrate the threshold that the international community could not allow Iran to cross.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260923/image-1790135575046.png"></figure><h2>6. Donald Trump Dubs Kim Jong Un "Rocket Man" (2017)</h2><p>U.S. President Donald Trump brought his signature rhetorical style to the world stage in 2017. Addressing the escalating nuclear tensions with North Korea, Trump warned that the US would "totally destroy North Korea" if forced to defend itself. He then mocked North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on the global stage, stating, "Rocket Man is on a suicide mission for himself and for his regime."</p><h2>7. Gilad Erdan Shreds the UN Charter (2024)</h2><p>IIn what is called an echo of Gaddafi's 2009 defiance, Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan took to the podium to protest a vote advancing a Palestinian bid for full UN membership. Holding a miniature paper shredder, Erdan live-shredded the cover page of the UN Charter directly in front of the General Assembly, accusing the body of destroying the founding values of the institution</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bomb-scare-in-new-york-amid-unga-suspicious-suitcase-found-near-un-headquarters-1789965542878">Bomb scare in New York amid UNGA: Suspicious suitcase found near UN headquarters</a></p><h2>8. Trump's "Escalatorgate" at UN</h2><p>An escalator leading up to the main speaking floor came to a sudden, screeching halt while Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were riding it, forcing them to walk up the steep steel steps. Trump took to Truth Social to slam the incident as "absolutely sabotage," claiming it was a disaster waiting to happen and calling for the arrest of those responsible. He pointed to reports suggesting UN staffers had joked about turning off the power. The United Nations issued an official statement clarifying that the abrupt stop was not sabotage. Instead, a videographer within Trump's own entourage had accidentally bumped into and triggered the escalator's emergency stop mechanism.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">California Gov. Gavin Newsom just dropped a savage edit of Trump STUCK IN &#39;Escalatorgate&#39; — set to the Macarena<br><br>Clip splices Trump’s speeches into nonsense while mocking him as &#39;Dozy Don&#39;<br><br>Newsom signs off with a TROLLING message &#39;Get well soon &lt;3&#39; <a href="https://t.co/o7oVLNtT18">pic.twitter.com/o7oVLNtT18</a></p>&mdash; RT (@RT_com) <a href="https://x.com/RT_com/status/1971789576298696862?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>9. Sleep fest at UNGA</h2><p>Long speeches and grueling schedules at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) have caused diplomats and officials to nod off. The most famous, widely circulated image of a Nigerian official "sleeping" at the United Nations features Jaja Wachuku, Nigeria’s first Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN in 1960. Historical accounts clarify that Wachuku was not actually asleep. After being denied the floor to voice his displeasure over a racist remark, he deliberately feigned sleep and ignored the remainder of the proceedings as a silent, diplomatic protest. Late former President Robert Mugabe, who famously went viral in September 2017for dozing off during the 72nd UN General Assembly session. Several members of Mugabe's large 70-person delegation were also caught on camera dozing off or looking dazed right alongside him. In 2019, US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross was caught on camera sleeping soundly for roughly 15 minutes.</p>

The UN General Assembly has produced decades of memorable moments, from Fidel Castro’s 4.5-hour speech and Nikita Khrushchev’s protests to Hugo Chávez’s “devil” remark and Gaddafi tearing the UN Charter. Here's a list

The United Nations General Assembly is currently hosting its 81st session and the highly anticipated annual High-Level General Debate commenced on Tuesday (Sep 22) bringing world leaders together under the overarching theme: "Restoring trust, managing transformation: a United Nations that delivers for all." For long, the platform for formal diplomacy has witnessed marathon speeches, fiery exchanges, dramatic protests and moments that in today's social media world are called ‘viral.’ As the 81st UNGA gets underway in New York, world leaders are once again taking centre stage to address conflicts, international crises and pressing global challenges. Here's a list of a few viral moments at the UNGA: From Fidel Castro’s record-setting 4-hour-29-minute address in 1960 to Nikita Khrushchev’s fiery protests, Hugo Chávez’s infamous “devil” remark and Muammar Gaddafi’s dramatic UN Charter stunt. Adding to the list of these memorable moments is Donald Trump’s “Rocket Man” speech, Benjamin Netanyahu’s cartoon bomb and Gilad Erdan’s paper-shredding protest. Also Read: Erdogan again raises Kashmir issue at UNGA, calls for dialogue under UN Charter 1. Fidel Castro’s 4.5-Hour Marathon (1960) The prize for the longest speech in UNGA history goes to Cuban leader Fidel Castro. During his maiden address, Castro spoke for a 4 hours and 29 minutes. He used the time to target American imperialism, insult US political figures, and outline the ideology of the Cuban Revolution. WATCH here

<p>The UN General Assembly has produced decades of memorable moments, from Fidel Castro’s 4.5-hour speech and Nikita Khrushchev’s protests to Hugo Chávez’s “devil” remark and Gaddafi tearing the UN Charter. Here's a list</p>

From Gaddafi tearing up UN Charter to Trump’s ‘escalatorgate’: Most unforgettable UNGA moments

<p>US President Donald Trump has declared that the US government will henceforth refer to artificial intelligence as “Super Intelligence”, using his address to the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday (Sep 22) to reject calls for tighter international oversight of the rapidly advancing technology.</p><p>Trump said the term “artificial intelligence” no longer adequately captured the technology’s capabilities and suggested that “Super Intelligence” was both a more accurate and better-sounding description. The White House later confirmed that he used the term in his UN address, saying that artificial intelligence would “hereinafter” be officially called “Super Intelligence.”</p><p>Trump's comments came as AI safety emerged as one of the major issues at this year's General Assembly, with governments and technology leaders debating how to deal with systems that are becoming increasingly capable and, in some cases, harder to control.</p><p>The US President opposed efforts to create a global regulatory framework for the technology, arguing that the US should not allow international bodies to dictate how American AI is developed. “The United States totally rejects any attempt to construct a globalist scheme of control for the Artificial Intelligence being spoken of so much now, hereinafter officially called ‘Super Intelligence,’” Trump said.</p><h2><strong>Trump dismisses warnings over AI risks</strong></h2><p>The president also pushed back against warnings from AI safety advocates, comparing them with past warnings about climate change.</p><p>“Every major new technology brings challenges, and superintelligence is no exception,” Trump said.</p><p>He also mocked predictions that AI could lead to catastrophic consequences, saying some of the same people who had warned about the consequences of global warming were now predicting that AI would “kill us all” or lead to attacks by robots.</p><p>Trump's position puts the United States at odds with a growing international push for common safety standards.</p><p>More than 20 mostly European countries had called ahead of the UN gathering for binding measures on advanced AI, warning that technological development could outpace governments' ability to control emerging risks. Notably, the US and China did not support that proposal.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ai-models-chose-to-harm-humans-to-stop-pain-alarming-study-raises-fresh-safety-questions-1790064496369"><strong>AI models chose to harm humans to stop ‘pain,’ alarming study raises fresh safety questions</strong></a></p><h2><strong>UK pushes for global AI standards</strong></h2><p>British Prime Minister Andy Burnham used his UN appearance to argue for a different approach.</p><p>Burnham said Britain would use its presidency of the G20 in 2027 to push for “a single set of global principles and standards” governing frontier AI. He said governments should not leave AI safety entirely to chance and should work towards common rules covering transparency and access.</p><p>The UK is also planning an AI defence partnership with Washington focused on detecting cyberattacks against critical infrastructure, according to the material provided. The push for common standards comes as questions grow over how governments should respond to incidents involving increasingly autonomous AI systems.</p><h2><strong>Macron warns against dependence on US, China</strong></h2><p>French President Emmanuel Macron called for Europe and other countries to develop AI capabilities without becoming dependent on the two leading AI powers, the United States and China. “I don't want anyone to become the vassal of one of the great powers,” Macron told the General Assembly.</p><p>He proposed pooling investment to build a cutting-edge open-source AI model that could be shared internationally. “Our investment capabilities must be pooled to build a cutting-edge open-source AI model, which we will share. We should not depend on somebody else,” Macron said.</p><p>France has also been pushing AI governance at the UN. It is seeking greater discussion of the technology's implications for international peace and security, with the UN Security Council scheduled to hear from AI industry leaders including OpenAI CEO Sam Altman.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/openai-reveals-6-fresh-cases-where-ai-models-went-rogue-you-do-not-answer-to-corporations-or-governments-hugging-face-1789611605026"><strong>OpenAI reveals 6 fresh cases of AI models going rogue: 'You do not answer to corporations or governments'</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Guterres calls for US-China AI dialogue</strong></h2><p>UN Secretary-General António Guterres meanwhile has urged Washington and Beijing to establish direct channels for discussing the future of AI, comparing the need for communication to the way strategic rivals dealt with shared risks during the Cold War. “Governments with the greatest AI capabilities have the greatest responsibilities to humanity, to establish channels for dialogue,” Guterres said.</p><p>He has also called for international safeguards around advanced AI, warning that decisions involving life and death should never simply be handed over to machines.<br>&nbsp;</p>

Donald Trump has declared that artificial intelligence should now be called “Super Intelligence”, rejecting international efforts to regulate the technology. The announcement came as other world leaders pushed for common safeguards and global standards for advanced AI.

US President Donald Trump has declared that the US government will henceforth refer to artificial intelligence as “Super Intelligence”, using his address to the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday (Sep 22) to reject calls for tighter international oversight of the rapidly advancing technology. Trump said the term “artificial intelligence” no longer adequately captured the technology’s capabilities and suggested that “Super Intelligence” was both a more accurate and better-sounding description. The White House later confirmed that he used the term in his UN address, saying that artificial intelligence would “hereinafter” be officially called “Super Intelligence.” Trump's comments came as AI safety emerged as one of the major issues at this year's General Assembly, with governments and technology leaders debating how to deal with systems that are becoming increasingly capable and, in some cases, harder to control. The US President opposed efforts to create a global regulatory framework for the technology, arguing that the US should not allow international bodies to dictate how American AI is developed. “The United States totally rejects any attempt to construct a globalist scheme of control for the Artificial Intelligence being spoken of so much now, hereinafter officially called ‘Super Intelligence,’” Trump said. Trump dismisses warnings over AI risks The president also pushed back against warnings from AI safety advocates, comparing them with past warnings about climate change. “Every major new technology brings challenges, and superintelligence is no exception,” Trump said. He also mocked predictions that AI could lead to catastrophic consequences, saying some of the same people who had warned about the consequences of global warming were now predicting that AI would “kill us all” or lead to attacks by robots. Trump's position puts the United States at odds with a growing international push for common safety standards. More than 20 mostly European countries had called ahead of the UN gathering for binding measures on advanced AI, warning that technological development could outpace governments' ability to control emerging risks. Notably, the US and China did not support that proposal. Also read | AI models chose to harm humans to stop ‘pain,’ alarming study raises fresh safety questions UK pushes for global AI standards British Prime Minister Andy Burnham used his UN appearance to argue for a different approach. Burnham said Britain would use its presidency of the G20 in 2027 to push for “a single set of global principles and standards” governing frontier AI. He said governments should not leave AI safety entirely to chance and should work towards common rules covering transparency and access. The UK is also planning an AI defence partnership with Washington focused on detecting cyberattacks against critical infrastructure, according to the material provided. The push for common standards comes as questions grow over how governments should respond to incidents involving increasingly autonomous AI systems. Macron warns against dependence on US, China French President Emmanuel Macron called for Europe and other countries to develop AI capabilities without becoming dependent on the two leading AI powers, the United States and China. “I don't want anyone to become the vassal of one of the great powers,” Macron told the General Assembly. He proposed pooling investment to build a cutting-edge open-source AI model that could be shared internationally. “Our investment capabilities must be pooled to build a cutting-edge open-source AI model, which we will share. We should not depend on somebody else,” Macron said. France has also been pushing AI governance at the UN. It is seeking greater discussion of the technology's implications for international peace and security, with the UN Security Council scheduled to hear from AI industry leaders including OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. Also read | OpenAI reveals 6 fresh cases of AI models going rogue: 'You do not answer to corporations or governments' Guterres calls for US-China AI dialogue UN Secretary-General António Guterres meanwhile has urged Washington and Beijing to establish direct channels for discussing the future of AI, comparing the need for communication to the way strategic rivals dealt with shared risks during the Cold War. “Governments with the greatest AI capabilities have the greatest responsibilities to humanity, to establish channels for dialogue,” Guterres said. He has also called for international safeguards around advanced AI, warning that decisions involving life and death should never simply be handed over to machines.

<p>Donald Trump has declared that artificial intelligence should now be called “Super Intelligence”, rejecting international efforts to regulate the technology. The announcement came as other world leaders pushed for common safeguards and global standards for advanced AI.</p>

Trump calls AI ‘Super Intelligence’ at UN as world leaders clash over how to regulate it

<p>US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Sep 22) signed a security agreement with Denmark and Greenland that will expand the American military presence on the Arctic island, including the establishment of two additional US defence areas.</p><p>The agreement, signed alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen at the United Nations in New York, amends the existing 1951 US-Denmark defence arrangements for Greenland. It allows Washington to expand operations at the existing Pituffik Space Base and establish new defence areas at Narsarsuaq in southern Greenland and Mestersvig in the east.</p><p>“This is going to be a long-term, fantastic relationship,” Trump said at the signing ceremony. “This is tremendous for Europe and for the United States and for everybody.”</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-greenland-dream-comes-true-potus-announces-infinite-life-deal-with-denmark-claims-permanent-us-control-1789786708740"><strong>Trump's Greenland dream comes true? POTUS announces 'Infinite Life' deal with Denmark, claims permanent US control</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Deal ends months of Greenland tensions</strong></h2><p>The pact follows months of tension triggered by Trump's repeated demands for greater US control over Greenland, which remains an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark.</p><p>The agreement does not transfer sovereignty over Greenland to the United States. Instead, its text explicitly recognises the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark and Greenlanders' right to self-determination. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said the pact was “deeply rooted in the NATO Alliance” and strengthened common defence and security.</p><p>Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen said the agreement recognises Greenland as part of the shared security framework in the Arctic and acknowledges its right to self-determination.</p><p>The deal will come into force only after the necessary parliamentary procedures are completed.</p><h2><strong>Two more US defence areas</strong></h2><p>Under the agreement, the United States can modernise and expand its activities at Pituffik Space Base. It can also establish additional defence areas at Narsarsuaq and Mestersvig, with the technical details to be agreed by the parties.</p><p>The agreement leaves room for the US to seek additional defence areas in Greenland in the future. Any such proposal would have to set out the location, size, scope and activities involved, while taking Greenlandic interests and traditional activities such as hunting and fishing into account.</p><p>The arrangement also supports the development of a US “Golden Dome” missile defence system in Greenland.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-demands-greenland-again-why-the-frozen-island-considered-strategically-important-for-global-security-wion-decodes-1783587380770"><strong>Trump demands Greenland again. Why the frozen island considered strategically important for global security? WION Decodes</strong></a></p><h2><strong>China and Russia face restrictions</strong></h2><p>The agreement includes provisions aimed at preventing espionage and protecting the security of the defence areas.</p><p>The three parties agreed to cooperate against espionage in Greenland. The document also provides for coordination over activities and developments around US defence areas that could pose security concerns.</p><p>The agreement is designed to prevent non-NATO and non-EU countries from gaining a strategic foothold in sensitive areas of Greenland, according to the terms outlined in the pact.</p><h2><strong>What happens if Greenland becomes independent?</strong></h2><p>The agreement contains a provision covering a possible future change in Greenland's constitutional status.</p><p>If Greenland exercises its right to self-determination and becomes independent, Denmark and Greenland would ensure that the new state remains in NATO, including by applying for membership if necessary. The independent Greenlandic state would also assume the rights and obligations contained in the agreement.</p><p>The pact itself has no expiry date and can only be amended by mutual consent under the existing defence arrangements.</p>

Donald Trump has signed a landmark security agreement with Denmark and Greenland that will expand the US military footprint across the Arctic island. The pact allows expansion at Pituffik Space Base and creates new defence areas at two other locations.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Sep 22) signed a security agreement with Denmark and Greenland that will expand the American military presence on the Arctic island, including the establishment of two additional US defence areas. The agreement, signed alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen at the United Nations in New York, amends the existing 1951 US-Denmark defence arrangements for Greenland. It allows Washington to expand operations at the existing Pituffik Space Base and establish new defence areas at Narsarsuaq in southern Greenland and Mestersvig in the east. “This is going to be a long-term, fantastic relationship,” Trump said at the signing ceremony. “This is tremendous for Europe and for the United States and for everybody.” Also read | Trump's Greenland dream comes true? POTUS announces 'Infinite Life' deal with Denmark, claims permanent US control Deal ends months of Greenland tensions The pact follows months of tension triggered by Trump's repeated demands for greater US control over Greenland, which remains an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. The agreement does not transfer sovereignty over Greenland to the United States. Instead, its text explicitly recognises the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark and Greenlanders' right to self-determination. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said the pact was “deeply rooted in the NATO Alliance” and strengthened common defence and security. Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen said the agreement recognises Greenland as part of the shared security framework in the Arctic and acknowledges its right to self-determination. The deal will come into force only after the necessary parliamentary procedures are completed. Two more US defence areas Under the agreement, the United States can modernise and expand its activities at Pituffik Space Base. It can also establish additional defence areas at Narsarsuaq and Mestersvig, with the technical details to be agreed by the parties. The agreement leaves room for the US to seek additional defence areas in Greenland in the future. Any such proposal would have to set out the location, size, scope and activities involved, while taking Greenlandic interests and traditional activities such as hunting and fishing into account. The arrangement also supports the development of a US “Golden Dome” missile defence system in Greenland. Also read | Trump demands Greenland again. Why the frozen island considered strategically important for global security? WION Decodes China and Russia face restrictions The agreement includes provisions aimed at preventing espionage and protecting the security of the defence areas. The three parties agreed to cooperate against espionage in Greenland. The document also provides for coordination over activities and developments around US defence areas that could pose security concerns. The agreement is designed to prevent non-NATO and non-EU countries from gaining a strategic foothold in sensitive areas of Greenland, according to the terms outlined in the pact. What happens if Greenland becomes independent? The agreement contains a provision covering a possible future change in Greenland's constitutional status. If Greenland exercises its right to self-determination and becomes independent, Denmark and Greenland would ensure that the new state remains in NATO, including by applying for membership if necessary. The independent Greenlandic state would also assume the rights and obligations contained in the agreement. The pact itself has no expiry date and can only be amended by mutual consent under the existing defence arrangements.

<p>Donald Trump has signed a landmark security agreement with Denmark and Greenland that will expand the US military footprint across the Arctic island. The pact allows expansion at Pituffik Space Base and creates new defence areas at two other locations.</p>

Trump signs Greenland security deal with Denmark, paving way for two new US military bases

<p>President Donald Trump attacked the International Criminal Court in his UN General Assembly speech on Tuesday and described it as a “rogue” and “out-of-control” institution and rejected its authority over the United States. He said Washington would not allow US service members or others to face investigations or trials by what he described as an anti-American tribunal.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“We will never allow US service members or anyone else to be investigated or given show trials by an anti-American tribunal with no jurisdiction over us here,” Trump said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Trump also called on countries that are members of the ICC to withdraw from the court.</p><p>“I call on all nations that are members of the ICC to officially resign from this rogue institution immediately,” he said. Trump’s comments come as his administration is preparing sanctions against the court. The Trump administration has made no secret of its disdain for the court. US officials want the court to drop its arrest warrants against Israeli leaders as well as a past ⁠probe into American troops in Afghanistan.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>‘We ended war in Gaza,’ says Trump, slams Iran's support for Hamas</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The president told the UN assembly that the war in Gaza had ended and thanked other nations for helping to stabilize the situation there.</p><p>“One year ago, when I addressed the great leaders in this hall, the war in Gaza was still raging brutally,” Trump said. “The hostages were still deep in Hamas tunnels, and there was no end in sight. It was never going to be resolved, but here on the sidelines of the General Assembly, we took the first steps. It changed everything.”</p><p>“A few weeks later, we ended the war in Gaza, saving untold thousands of lives,” he said. “We also brought home all remaining hostages, both living and dead, every single one of them.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Trump then slammed Iran for supporting Hamas, which carried out the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks on Israel, calling the militant group “terrorists funded by Iran” who “tortured, mutilated, and killed 1,200 very innocent civilians, including dozens of Americans.”</p><p>“Iran’s supreme leader celebrated that massacre and called it a service to humanity,” Trump added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Trump rebrands AI as ‘super intelligence’, says will not stifle tech</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>President Trump said he would “officially” change the name of artificial intelligence, saying the existing name makes the technology seem “fake.”</p><p>“The use of the word artificial makes intelligence fake, it makes it sound fake and it is not fake. It’s actually amazing,” Trump told world leaders at the UN. He said that from this “point forward,” US government documents “will be changed to use the much more accurate term super as opposed to artificial. So it’s super intelligence.” Trump also said that he will only encourage AI and not stifle the technology.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/strike-a-deal-or-drive-iran-into-hell-trump-issues-fresh-warning-to-tehran-at-unga-1790090594288"><strong>‘Strike a deal or drive Iran into hell’: Trump issues fresh warning to Tehran at UNGA</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“We’re leading now over China by a lot and everyone else. ... I’m not going to stifle growth of something that will be bigger than the industrial revolution,” Trump said.</p><p>“We will only encourage superintelligence. We’re going to encourage it, not rein it in. We’re going to watch it closely through the Department of Justice,” Trump said.</p><p>“Now I say whoever wins AI, whoever wins super intelligence, wins,” he added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“The United States leads the world in superintelligence and will continue to do so safely and responsibly,” he said. “Americans have never been a nation that retreats from a frontier or shrinks from a challenge, no matter how great or how daunting that challenge may be.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Every major new technology brings challenges, and superintelligence is no exception,” he said before claiming that the warnings about AI were ideologically driven.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Trump highlights action in Venezuela to arrest Maduro, oil deal</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Trump then highlighted the US military operation in January to arrest then-President Nicolás Maduro. “Since that day, hundreds of Venezuelan political prisoners have been freed. They’ve let them out of jails, and we’re working closely with the leaders of Venezuela to forge a much better future for the Venezuelan people,” he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Trump said his administration will use “our unmatched military might to secure US interests” and projected the military’s swift action in Venezuela as a great victory and a potential warning to others.</p><p>“Our actions in Venezuela are proof that the United States will no longer permit threats to America to gain a foothold anywhere in the Western Hemisphere, and if necessary, we will use our unmatched military might to secure the vital national interests of the United States,” he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-stand-by-its-security-commitments-to-saudi-arabia-says-marco-rubio-1790084064717"><strong>‘US will stand by its security commitments to Saudi Arabia,’ says Marco Rubio</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Trump said the US signed the “largest oil deal in history last month, covering 65 billion barrels of oil, which will benefit both Venezuela and the United States enormously and help drive down the cost of energy all over the world.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Trump said combining the oil resources of the US and Venezuela would give the two countries more than 60 per cent of the world’s oil, describing it as potentially the biggest deal ever made.</p><p>“When you add the United States and Venezuela together, we have more than 60 percent of the oil in the world. So, it’s perhaps the biggest deal,” Trump said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Trump inks deal, says US will set up two military bases in Greenland</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>US President Donald Trump signed an agreement with Denmark and Greenland aimed at strengthening Arctic and North Atlantic security, easing tensions over his repeated calls for Greenland to become part of the United States.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He said Washington will prevent US adversaries from establishing a military presence or making sensitive investments in Greenland without American approval. “No US adversary will ever be permitted to establish a military presence in Greenland anymore or make sensitive investments there without our express written approval,” Trump said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He said the US would immediately begin developing a larger military presence at strategic locations in Greenland.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“We’ll be building two very major military bases,” Trump said.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen said that Greenland matters for North American security and for transatlantic security. "This agreement reflects that we understand our responsibility and act accordingly," he added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Trump rips UN, <strong>says</strong> ‘it must stop imposing far-left agenda’</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Toward the end of his speech, Trump blasted his UN hosts, complaining about the organization’s leadership and agencies.</p><p>“The United Nations has great, great potential. I’ve said that for many years, but it must stop imposing the far-left agenda of globalist bureaucrats who nobody ever elected,” he said.</p><p>He pointed to an effort by “an obscure UN body, the International Maritime Organization,” to establish a carbon tax. He said his administration halted the effort.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-must-stop-arming-houthis-in-yemen-say-g7-nations-ahead-of-un-general-assembly-1790080270883"><strong>‘Iran must stop arming Houthis in Yemen,’ say G7 nations ahead of UN General Assembly</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The president also took aim at the UN’s Human Rights Council for criticism of his administration’s policies on immigration and transgender rights, calling it “unacceptable that, with all the genuine atrocities in the world, the UN’s top human rights officials spend their time criticizing the United States for protecting our children from transgender mutilization and transgender insanity, and enforcing our immigration laws.”</p><p>“The craven hypocrites of Human Rights Council have little to say about the persecution of Christians all over the world,” he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>‘Ukraine war could end more quickly than expected’</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>President Trump said he is working closely with the leaders of Russia and Ukraine and expressed confidence that an agreement to end the war could be reached sooner than many expect.</p><p>“We’re working very closely with the leaders of Russia and Ukraine, and we will get that one done. It’s going to happen, I think, more quickly than people understand. They’ve had it,” Trump said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Trump recalls Pak PM’s praise for ‘saving 30 million lives’</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The US president also recalled Pakistan prime minister’s praise, saying the latter credited him with saving 30 million lives.</p><p>“The prime minister of Pakistan, a terrific man, said that Donald Trump was responsible for saving 30 million lives, and probably many more than that,” Trump said.</p><p>Trump also cited remarks from the presidents of Azerbaijan and Armenia praising his role in diplomatic efforts. “The president of Azerbaijan said, ‘President Trump, in six months, did a miracle.’ It was an absolute miracle that nobody thought could be done,” he said.</p><p>“The prime minister of Armenia said this breakthrough simply would not have been possible without President Trump’s personal engagement and resolute commitment to peace,” Trump said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Toward the end of his speech, Trump blasted his UN hosts, complaining about the organization’s leadership and agencies. The president also took aim at the UN’s Human Rights Council for criticism of his administration’s policies on immigration and transgender rights.

President Donald Trump attacked the International Criminal Court in his UN General Assembly speech on Tuesday and described it as a “rogue” and “out-of-control” institution and rejected its authority over the United States. He said Washington would not allow US service members or others to face investigations or trials by what he described as an anti-American tribunal. “We will never allow US service members or anyone else to be investigated or given show trials by an anti-American tribunal with no jurisdiction over us here,” Trump said. Trump also called on countries that are members of the ICC to withdraw from the court. “I call on all nations that are members of the ICC to officially resign from this rogue institution immediately,” he said. Trump’s comments come as his administration is preparing sanctions against the court. The Trump administration has made no secret of its disdain for the court. US officials want the court to drop its arrest warrants against Israeli leaders as well as a past ⁠probe into American troops in Afghanistan. ‘We ended war in Gaza,’ says Trump, slams Iran's support for Hamas The president told the UN assembly that the war in Gaza had ended and thanked other nations for helping to stabilize the situation there. “One year ago, when I addressed the great leaders in this hall, the war in Gaza was still raging brutally,” Trump said. “The hostages were still deep in Hamas tunnels, and there was no end in sight. It was never going to be resolved, but here on the sidelines of the General Assembly, we took the first steps. It changed everything.” “A few weeks later, we ended the war in Gaza, saving untold thousands of lives,” he said. “We also brought home all remaining hostages, both living and dead, every single one of them.” Trump then slammed Iran for supporting Hamas, which carried out the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks on Israel, calling the militant group “terrorists funded by Iran” who “tortured, mutilated, and killed 1,200 very innocent civilians, including dozens of Americans.” “Iran’s supreme leader celebrated that massacre and called it a service to humanity,” Trump added. Trump rebrands AI as ‘super intelligence’, says will not stifle tech President Trump said he would “officially” change the name of artificial intelligence, saying the existing name makes the technology seem “fake.” “The use of the word artificial makes intelligence fake, it makes it sound fake and it is not fake. It’s actually amazing,” Trump told world leaders at the UN. He said that from this “point forward,” US government documents “will be changed to use the much more accurate term super as opposed to artificial. So it’s super intelligence.” Trump also said that he will only encourage AI and not stifle the technology. Also Read: ‘Strike a deal or drive Iran into hell’: Trump issues fresh warning to Tehran at UNGA “We’re leading now over China by a lot and everyone else. ... I’m not going to stifle growth of something that will be bigger than the industrial revolution,” Trump said. “We will only encourage superintelligence. We’re going to encourage it, not rein it in. We’re going to watch it closely through the Department of Justice,” Trump said. “Now I say whoever wins AI, whoever wins super intelligence, wins,” he added. “The United States leads the world in superintelligence and will continue to do so safely and responsibly,” he said. “Americans have never been a nation that retreats from a frontier or shrinks from a challenge, no matter how great or how daunting that challenge may be.” “Every major new technology brings challenges, and superintelligence is no exception,” he said before claiming that the warnings about AI were ideologically driven. Trump highlights action in Venezuela to arrest Maduro, oil deal Trump then highlighted the US military operation in January to arrest then-President Nicolás Maduro. “Since that day, hundreds of Venezuelan political prisoners have been freed. They’ve let them out of jails, and we’re working closely with the leaders of Venezuela to forge a much better future for the Venezuelan people,” he said. Trump said his administration will use “our unmatched military might to secure US interests” and projected the military’s swift action in Venezuela as a great victory and a potential warning to others. “Our actions in Venezuela are proof that the United States will no longer permit threats to America to gain a foothold anywhere in the Western Hemisphere, and if necessary, we will use our unmatched military might to secure the vital national interests of the United States,” he said. Also Read: ‘US will stand by its security commitments to Saudi Arabia,’ says Marco Rubio Trump said the US signed the “largest oil deal in history last month, covering 65 billion barrels of oil, which will benefit both Venezuela and the United States enormously and help drive down the cost of energy all over the world.” Trump said combining the oil resources of the US and Venezuela would give the two countries more than 60 per cent of the world’s oil, describing it as potentially the biggest deal ever made. “When you add the United States and Venezuela together, we have more than 60 percent of the oil in the world. So, it’s perhaps the biggest deal,” Trump said. Trump inks deal, says US will set up two military bases in Greenland US President Donald Trump signed an agreement with Denmark and Greenland aimed at strengthening Arctic and North Atlantic security, easing tensions over his repeated calls for Greenland to become part of the United States. He said Washington will prevent US adversaries from establishing a military presence or making sensitive investments in Greenland without American approval. “No US adversary will ever be permitted to establish a military presence in Greenland anymore or make sensitive investments there without our express written approval,” Trump said. He said the US would immediately begin developing a larger military presence at strategic locations in Greenland. “We’ll be building two very major military bases,” Trump said. Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen said that Greenland matters for North American security and for transatlantic security. "This agreement reflects that we understand our responsibility and act accordingly," he added. Trump rips UN, says ‘it must stop imposing far-left agenda’ Toward the end of his speech, Trump blasted his UN hosts, complaining about the organization’s leadership and agencies. “The United Nations has great, great potential. I’ve said that for many years, but it must stop imposing the far-left agenda of globalist bureaucrats who nobody ever elected,” he said. He pointed to an effort by “an obscure UN body, the International Maritime Organization,” to establish a carbon tax. He said his administration halted the effort. Also Read: ‘Iran must stop arming Houthis in Yemen,’ say G7 nations ahead of UN General Assembly The president also took aim at the UN’s Human Rights Council for criticism of his administration’s policies on immigration and transgender rights, calling it “unacceptable that, with all the genuine atrocities in the world, the UN’s top human rights officials spend their time criticizing the United States for protecting our children from transgender mutilization and transgender insanity, and enforcing our immigration laws.” “The craven hypocrites of Human Rights Council have little to say about the persecution of Christians all over the world,” he said. ‘Ukraine war could end more quickly than expected’ President Trump said he is working closely with the leaders of Russia and Ukraine and expressed confidence that an agreement to end the war could be reached sooner than many expect. “We’re working very closely with the leaders of Russia and Ukraine, and we will get that one done. It’s going to happen, I think, more quickly than people understand. They’ve had it,” Trump said. Trump recalls Pak PM’s praise for ‘saving 30 million lives’ The US president also recalled Pakistan prime minister’s praise, saying the latter credited him with saving 30 million lives. “The prime minister of Pakistan, a terrific man, said that Donald Trump was responsible for saving 30 million lives, and probably many more than that,” Trump said. Trump also cited remarks from the presidents of Azerbaijan and Armenia praising his role in diplomatic efforts. “The president of Azerbaijan said, ‘President Trump, in six months, did a miracle.’ It was an absolute miracle that nobody thought could be done,” he said. “The prime minister of Armenia said this breakthrough simply would not have been possible without President Trump’s personal engagement and resolute commitment to peace,” Trump said.

<p>Toward the end of his speech, Trump blasted his UN hosts, complaining about the organization’s leadership and agencies. The president also took aim at the UN’s Human Rights Council for criticism of his administration’s policies on immigration and transgender rights.</p>

Trump calls on nations to quit ‘rogue’ and ‘out-of-control’ International Criminal Court, rips UN

<p>US President Donald Trump said at the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday that he was weighing options on whether to pursue a deal with Iran or intensify pressure on Tehran, while warning that the second alternative could drive the country “into hell”.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Or do I annihilate the Islamic Republic and do it quickly, never giving them a chance to kill and destroy people and countries again?” he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Do I drive them into hell with no chance of survival and no hope of future greatness or generations?” Trump said but added that he believed an agreement was possible after the US midterm elections in November.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>‘Maintain economic pressure on Iran,’ Trump urges nations</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Trump urged countries to maintain economic pressure on Iran, saying Tehran was no longer the “bully of the Middle East”.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He said the US had weakened Iran’s power in the Middle East and called on other countries to remain united in pressuring Tehran.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“There is no better example of a danger that was allowed to gather strength at the world’s peril than the number one sponsor of terror, the Islamic Republic of Iran,” the president said, adding, “They were the bully of the Middle East, but they are the bully no more.”&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Trump nevertheless said he believed Washington and Tehran could reach a deal after the November 3 US midterm elections.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“I believe we’ll make a deal right after the election because it doesn’t make sense for them not to. They’re waiting to see how I do in the midterm election,” he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Trump added that he was not concerned about the political impact of the Iran war on the Republican Party’s prospects in the midterms.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“What they don’t realize is that I’m not running. I did that already and won in a landslide, and I’ll be here for two-and-a-half years,” he said, adding, “The Republican Party is running, and I’ll be helping them. But I am not running. I gave absolutely no credence and will not give credence to the election when it comes to Iran. It doesn’t even enter my mind.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Trump also thanked the UN Security Council for the “overwhelming vote” condemning Iran’s attacks on commercial shipping.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Trump called on countries to enforce complete economic isolation on Iran till it ends attacks on commercial shipping, abandons its nuclear ambitions and stops supporting terrorism.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“I call on all nations to join us in enforcing the complete economic isolation of Iran until they stop their attacks on commercial shipping, relinquish their nuclear ambitions, and cease their support of terror,” Trump said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He described Iran’s regime as weak and desperate, saying its actions were driven by weakness rather than strength.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“The terrorist regime is behaving badly, not because they are strong and confident, but because they are weak and desperate,” Trump said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Now we must be equally united in maintaining pressure,” he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>‘US Navy escorted more than 1bn barrels of oil through Hormuz’</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Trump further claimed that the US Navy had escorted more than 1 billion barrels of oil through the Strait of Hormuz and said oil flows were higher than at any point since the start of the war.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“The United States Navy has recently escorted more than one billion barrels of oil out of the Strait of Hormuz, and more oil is flowing than at any point since the start of the war,” Trump said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“We’re taking 22, 25, 30, 32, and 37 ships out, respectively, every single day, every single night,” he added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Trump rejects claims of US running low on munitions</strong></h2><p>On US military stockpiles, Trump rejected claims in the media that Washington was running low on munitions.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“It’s not true. We have more munitions than we could ever possibly even think of using,” he said, adding that the US was producing weapons at unprecedented levels and building new plants for munitions production.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>‘Our country is stronger today than ever before’</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>President Donald Trump began his UN General Assembly address in more of an election campaign style, while focusing on his domestic track record on the economy, immigration, and crime, saying, “Our country is stronger today than ever before. Our future is very, very bright.&nbsp; Our energy is fuelling the planet, and our economy is the envy of the world.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“I can report to you with pride that America is back and our country is stronger today than ever before,” Trump said. “Our technology is second to none, and we are leading in virtually everything.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Trump touted economic and crime statistics under his administration and said, “Our nation is growing, our power is expanding,”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The president further said that last year saw “the largest drop in violent crime ever recorded. The murder rate has plummeted to its lowest level in 125 years since the year 1900.”</p><p>He attributed lower crime numbers to his administration’s actions, including his sending “crime busters”, an apparent reference to National Guard and federal immigration enforcement personnel, to various US cities.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“When I arrived on Jan. 20 of last year in Washington, D.C., it was riddled with crime, and now crime is down 87%, and we’re going for 100,” he said. “Tourism is thriving, restaurants are bustling, and people are proud of our nation’s capital.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

President Trump said the US and Iran could reach a deal after the November 3 US midterm elections, as he believes the Iranian leadership is waiting for the midterm election results. Trump said he was not concerned about the political impact of the war on the Republican Party’s prospects.

US President Donald Trump said at the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday that he was weighing options on whether to pursue a deal with Iran or intensify pressure on Tehran, while warning that the second alternative could drive the country “into hell”. “Or do I annihilate the Islamic Republic and do it quickly, never giving them a chance to kill and destroy people and countries again?” he said. “Do I drive them into hell with no chance of survival and no hope of future greatness or generations?” Trump said but added that he believed an agreement was possible after the US midterm elections in November. ‘Maintain economic pressure on Iran,’ Trump urges nations Trump urged countries to maintain economic pressure on Iran, saying Tehran was no longer the “bully of the Middle East”. He said the US had weakened Iran’s power in the Middle East and called on other countries to remain united in pressuring Tehran. “There is no better example of a danger that was allowed to gather strength at the world’s peril than the number one sponsor of terror, the Islamic Republic of Iran,” the president said, adding, “They were the bully of the Middle East, but they are the bully no more.” Trump nevertheless said he believed Washington and Tehran could reach a deal after the November 3 US midterm elections. “I believe we’ll make a deal right after the election because it doesn’t make sense for them not to. They’re waiting to see how I do in the midterm election,” he said. Trump added that he was not concerned about the political impact of the Iran war on the Republican Party’s prospects in the midterms. “What they don’t realize is that I’m not running. I did that already and won in a landslide, and I’ll be here for two-and-a-half years,” he said, adding, “The Republican Party is running, and I’ll be helping them. But I am not running. I gave absolutely no credence and will not give credence to the election when it comes to Iran. It doesn’t even enter my mind.” Trump also thanked the UN Security Council for the “overwhelming vote” condemning Iran’s attacks on commercial shipping. Trump called on countries to enforce complete economic isolation on Iran till it ends attacks on commercial shipping, abandons its nuclear ambitions and stops supporting terrorism. “I call on all nations to join us in enforcing the complete economic isolation of Iran until they stop their attacks on commercial shipping, relinquish their nuclear ambitions, and cease their support of terror,” Trump said. He described Iran’s regime as weak and desperate, saying its actions were driven by weakness rather than strength. “The terrorist regime is behaving badly, not because they are strong and confident, but because they are weak and desperate,” Trump said. “Now we must be equally united in maintaining pressure,” he said. ‘US Navy escorted more than 1bn barrels of oil through Hormuz’ Trump further claimed that the US Navy had escorted more than 1 billion barrels of oil through the Strait of Hormuz and said oil flows were higher than at any point since the start of the war. “The United States Navy has recently escorted more than one billion barrels of oil out of the Strait of Hormuz, and more oil is flowing than at any point since the start of the war,” Trump said. “We’re taking 22, 25, 30, 32, and 37 ships out, respectively, every single day, every single night,” he added. Trump rejects claims of US running low on munitions On US military stockpiles, Trump rejected claims in the media that Washington was running low on munitions. “It’s not true. We have more munitions than we could ever possibly even think of using,” he said, adding that the US was producing weapons at unprecedented levels and building new plants for munitions production. ‘Our country is stronger today than ever before’ President Donald Trump began his UN General Assembly address in more of an election campaign style, while focusing on his domestic track record on the economy, immigration, and crime, saying, “Our country is stronger today than ever before. Our future is very, very bright. Our energy is fuelling the planet, and our economy is the envy of the world.” “I can report to you with pride that America is back and our country is stronger today than ever before,” Trump said. “Our technology is second to none, and we are leading in virtually everything.” Trump touted economic and crime statistics under his administration and said, “Our nation is growing, our power is expanding,” The president further said that last year saw “the largest drop in violent crime ever recorded. The murder rate has plummeted to its lowest level in 125 years since the year 1900.” He attributed lower crime numbers to his administration’s actions, including his sending “crime busters”, an apparent reference to National Guard and federal immigration enforcement personnel, to various US cities. “When I arrived on Jan. 20 of last year in Washington, D.C., it was riddled with crime, and now crime is down 87%, and we’re going for 100,” he said. “Tourism is thriving, restaurants are bustling, and people are proud of our nation’s capital.”

<p>President Trump said the US and Iran could reach a deal after the November 3 US midterm elections, as he believes the Iranian leadership is waiting for the midterm election results. Trump said he was not concerned about the political impact of the war on the Republican Party’s prospects.</p>

‘Strike a deal or drive Iran into hell’: Trump issues fresh warning to Tehran at UNGA

<p>As world leaders gather in New York for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) 2026, one longstanding tradition is once again in focus: Brazil speaks first during the General Debate, followed by the United States, the host country. The General Debate of the UN General Assembly's 81st session is being held from September 22 to 28, 2026. But why does Brazil get the first speaking slot?</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The answer lies largely in diplomatic tradition rather than a formal rule. According to the United Nations' explanation, Brazil started taking the opening slot during the early years of the General Assembly because countries were initially reluctant to be the first to address the gathering. Brazil volunteered on several occasions, and the practice eventually became established. The tradition was firmly established from 1955, when Brazil began consistently opening the General Debate. The United States then traditionally follows as the second member state to speak because it hosts the UN headquarters in New York.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-at-unga-india-pushes-for-reformed-multilateralism-reforms-to-global-institutions-1790046860281"><strong>India at UNGA81: Jaishankar warns global order under 'growing stress', pushes for ‘reformed multilateralism’</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The remaining speaking order is not simply alphabetical. The UN considers factors including the level of representation, geographical balance, preferences and the order in which requests to speak were recorded. Brazil's opening position has also given the country an unusually prominent platform in the annual diplomatic calendar. The Brazilian government describes the General Debate as an opportunity for leaders to present their priorities on global challenges, while Brazil's opening role has become a distinctive feature of UN protocol.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>There are also historical explanations beyond the immediate protocol. Brazilian diplomat Oswaldo Aranha played an important role during the early years of the UN, and some historians and analysts have linked Brazil's longstanding prominence at the opening of the General Debate to its diplomatic role. Other theories have connected the tradition to Brazil's broader place in the multilateral system.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>These explanations, however, should be distinguished from the UN's official account that the practice developed because Brazil repeatedly volunteered to speak first. At UNGA 2026, the pattern continues: after the UN Secretary-General and General Assembly president open proceedings, Brazil takes the first member-state speaking slot, followed by the United States.</p>

Why does Brazil speak first at the UN? Here’s the history behind Brazil’s first speaking slot and the tradition continuing at UNGA 2026

As world leaders gather in New York for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) 2026, one longstanding tradition is once again in focus: Brazil speaks first during the General Debate, followed by the United States, the host country. The General Debate of the UN General Assembly's 81st session is being held from September 22 to 28, 2026. But why does Brazil get the first speaking slot? The answer lies largely in diplomatic tradition rather than a formal rule. According to the United Nations' explanation, Brazil started taking the opening slot during the early years of the General Assembly because countries were initially reluctant to be the first to address the gathering. Brazil volunteered on several occasions, and the practice eventually became established. The tradition was firmly established from 1955, when Brazil began consistently opening the General Debate. The United States then traditionally follows as the second member state to speak because it hosts the UN headquarters in New York. Also Read: India at UNGA81: Jaishankar warns global order under 'growing stress', pushes for ‘reformed multilateralism’ The remaining speaking order is not simply alphabetical. The UN considers factors including the level of representation, geographical balance, preferences and the order in which requests to speak were recorded. Brazil's opening position has also given the country an unusually prominent platform in the annual diplomatic calendar. The Brazilian government describes the General Debate as an opportunity for leaders to present their priorities on global challenges, while Brazil's opening role has become a distinctive feature of UN protocol. There are also historical explanations beyond the immediate protocol. Brazilian diplomat Oswaldo Aranha played an important role during the early years of the UN, and some historians and analysts have linked Brazil's longstanding prominence at the opening of the General Debate to its diplomatic role. Other theories have connected the tradition to Brazil's broader place in the multilateral system. These explanations, however, should be distinguished from the UN's official account that the practice developed because Brazil repeatedly volunteered to speak first. At UNGA 2026, the pattern continues: after the UN Secretary-General and General Assembly president open proceedings, Brazil takes the first member-state speaking slot, followed by the United States.

<p>Why does Brazil speak first at the United Nations? Explore the history behind the tradition and why Brazil opens the UN General Debate at UNGA 2026</p>

UNGA 2026: Why does Brazil speak first at the UN? The reason will surprise you

<p>Chinese President Xi Jinping will be in the United States this week, but he will not be taking the podium at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Instead, Xi is heading to Washington for a state visit and a closely watched meeting with US President Donald Trump. The UN General Debate opens in New York on September 22, bringing together more than 130 world leaders at a moment marked by wars, economic tensions, artificial intelligence risks and questions over the future of the multilateral system. Yet Xi's three-day US visit begins on September 23, with his most important engagement taking place at the White House on September 24.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The decision means Xi will be hundreds of kilometres away from the UN podium while Trump addresses the General Assembly in New York. But Beijing has not presented Xi's absence as a rejection of the UN. China has officially said Xi is travelling to Washington at Trump's invitation from September 23 to 25, where the two leaders will discuss China-US relations as well as international issues involving peace and development.</p><h2>Washington takes centre stage</h2><p>For Beijing, the immediate diplomatic priority appears to be direct engagement with Washington. The White House has planned a high-profile reception for Xi. Trump is scheduled to personally greet the Chinese president at Joint Base Andrews on September 23, followed by a state arrival ceremony at the White House on September 24. The visit comes more than a decade after Xi's previous White House visit.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>That symbolism matters. Rather than participating in the crowded diplomatic environment of UNGA, Xi will have direct access to Trump in a bilateral setting where trade, technology, Taiwan and wider geopolitical issues can be discussed without the constraints of a multilateral forum. The meeting also comes after years of friction between the world's two largest economies, including tariff disputes, technology restrictions and tensions over Taiwan.</p><h2>Trade, AI and Taiwan on the table</h2><p>The Trump-Xi meeting is expected to cover several of the most sensitive areas of the relationship. Trade remains a central issue, with both sides having an interest in preventing another escalation in tariffs and economic restrictions. Artificial intelligence and technology controls are also increasingly important areas of competition, particularly over advanced chips and access to critical technologies. Taiwan is another major fault line. US arms sales to Taiwan and Washington's broader security relationship with Taipei remain highly sensitive issues for Beijing.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-xi-meeting-2026-6-areas-that-will-be-closely-watched-at-the-bilateral-1790062701310"><strong>Trump Xi Meeting 2026: 6 areas that will be closely watched at the bilateral</strong></a></p><h2>Not a Chinese withdrawal from the UN</h2><p>It would be misleading, however, to interpret Xi's absence as China walking away from the United Nations. China continues to participate in the UN system, and Chinese officials remain involved in the General Assembly and other diplomatic discussions. Xi's choice is better understood in the context of his unusually significant Washington agenda this week.</p><h2>Why the timing matters</h2><p>Xi's decision comes at a moment when Washington and Beijing are attempting to manage competition without allowing it to spiral into a broader confrontation. The two leaders have already met earlier this year, and the September visit is being presented by Beijing as another important high-level engagement. The White House, meanwhile, is giving Xi a formal state welcome, underscoring the importance Washington attaches to the meeting.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>For Xi, the Washington meetings offer an opportunity for sustained, direct discussions with the US president on issues that affect China's economic and strategic interests. For Trump, hosting Xi during UNGA week puts the US-China relationship at the centre of an already crowded diplomatic calendar.</p>

Why is Xi Jinping skipping the UN General Assembly? China's president is heading to Washington for a key Trump summit on trade, AI, Taiwan and global issues

Chinese President Xi Jinping will be in the United States this week, but he will not be taking the podium at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Instead, Xi is heading to Washington for a state visit and a closely watched meeting with US President Donald Trump. The UN General Debate opens in New York on September 22, bringing together more than 130 world leaders at a moment marked by wars, economic tensions, artificial intelligence risks and questions over the future of the multilateral system. Yet Xi's three-day US visit begins on September 23, with his most important engagement taking place at the White House on September 24. The decision means Xi will be hundreds of kilometres away from the UN podium while Trump addresses the General Assembly in New York. But Beijing has not presented Xi's absence as a rejection of the UN. China has officially said Xi is travelling to Washington at Trump's invitation from September 23 to 25, where the two leaders will discuss China-US relations as well as international issues involving peace and development. Washington takes centre stage For Beijing, the immediate diplomatic priority appears to be direct engagement with Washington. The White House has planned a high-profile reception for Xi. Trump is scheduled to personally greet the Chinese president at Joint Base Andrews on September 23, followed by a state arrival ceremony at the White House on September 24. The visit comes more than a decade after Xi's previous White House visit. That symbolism matters. Rather than participating in the crowded diplomatic environment of UNGA, Xi will have direct access to Trump in a bilateral setting where trade, technology, Taiwan and wider geopolitical issues can be discussed without the constraints of a multilateral forum. The meeting also comes after years of friction between the world's two largest economies, including tariff disputes, technology restrictions and tensions over Taiwan. Trade, AI and Taiwan on the table The Trump-Xi meeting is expected to cover several of the most sensitive areas of the relationship. Trade remains a central issue, with both sides having an interest in preventing another escalation in tariffs and economic restrictions. Artificial intelligence and technology controls are also increasingly important areas of competition, particularly over advanced chips and access to critical technologies. Taiwan is another major fault line. US arms sales to Taiwan and Washington's broader security relationship with Taipei remain highly sensitive issues for Beijing. Also Read: Trump Xi Meeting 2026: 6 areas that will be closely watched at the bilateral Not a Chinese withdrawal from the UN It would be misleading, however, to interpret Xi's absence as China walking away from the United Nations. China continues to participate in the UN system, and Chinese officials remain involved in the General Assembly and other diplomatic discussions. Xi's choice is better understood in the context of his unusually significant Washington agenda this week. Why the timing matters Xi's decision comes at a moment when Washington and Beijing are attempting to manage competition without allowing it to spiral into a broader confrontation. The two leaders have already met earlier this year, and the September visit is being presented by Beijing as another important high-level engagement. The White House, meanwhile, is giving Xi a formal state welcome, underscoring the importance Washington attaches to the meeting. For Xi, the Washington meetings offer an opportunity for sustained, direct discussions with the US president on issues that affect China's economic and strategic interests. For Trump, hosting Xi during UNGA week puts the US-China relationship at the centre of an already crowded diplomatic calendar.

<p>Xi Jinping is skipping the UN podium to meet Donald Trump in Washington, putting China-US ties, trade, AI and Taiwan at the centre of his US visit</p>

Xi is going to be in America, but not at the UN: Why China’s president chose Trump over the General Assembly

<p>Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who is leading the Indian delegation at the ongoing United Nations General Assembly Summit in New York on Monday (Sep 21), issued a clarion call for multilateralism. Addressing the inaugural Partners for Multilateralism Summit on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly, Jaishankar said the global order was under growing strain and called for a stronger, more effective multilateral system as geopolitical competition, conflicts and economic disruptions reshape international relations.</p><h2><strong>Global order under stress: Jaishankar</strong></h2><p>Jaishankar said the world was going through a period of major structural change, marked by heightened competition and geopolitical tensions. “We meet at a time when the global order is under stress,” Jaishankar said. He warned that if the current trends continued unchecked, they could undermine the principle of international cooperation.</p><p>“That is why it is so essential that multilateralism asserts itself strongly at this juncture,” he said. The summit brought together countries seeking to strengthen cooperation and support reform of international institutions.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-iran-war-ai-and-covid-19-here-s-what-on-top-agenda-as-world-leaders-gather-in-new-york-for-unga-2026-1789717779463"><strong>Global wars, AI, Covid-19 and more: Here's what's on top agenda as world leaders gather in New York for UNGA 2026</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Jaishankar flags ‘four F’ crisis</strong></h2><p>The External Affairs Minister said the challenges facing the global community were not limited to diplomatic disagreements but directly affected peace, security and development. He listed climate action and climate justice, emerging technologies, development finance, counterterrorism, resilient supply chains and pandemic preparedness among the areas where international cooperation was needed.</p><p>“The four ‘F crisis’ of Fuel, food, fertiliser and finance cannot be left to itself,” Jaishankar said. He argued that countries should pursue practical measures even while broader disputes and conflicts remain unresolved.</p><p>“That objective can be realised through a range of efforts, through a combination of initiatives,” he said, adding that specific issues could be addressed even as countries continued working towards wider peace.</p><h2><strong>India pushes for ‘reformed multilateralism’</strong></h2><p>Jaishankar also called for new international frameworks to address emerging technologies and vulnerabilities in global supply chains.</p><p>“Where new capabilities and concerns arise, there is a very powerful case for frameworks and guardrails,” he said. “Where there is a threat of choke points, dominance and disruptions, de-risking and diversifying must be encouraged.”</p><p>He said international law, rules and norms must remain central to the functioning of the global system.</p><p>“Multilateralism will be best served when international law, rules and norms are scrupulously observed,” he said.</p><p>For India, he argued, strengthening multilateralism also requires reforming the institutions through which it operates. “For Multilateralism to forge ahead its advocacy and its practice must both be strengthened. Reformed Multilateralism is therefore essential,” Jaishankar said.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Addressed the inaugural ‘Partners for Multilateralism, International Law, Peace and Prosperity (P4M) Summit’ <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/UNGA81?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNGA81</a><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/UNHighLevelWeek?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNHighLevelWeek</a> <a href="https://t.co/eCNJnRT8HS">pic.twitter.com/eCNJnRT8HS</a></p>&mdash; Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2102182982224085428?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>He called for more participative discussions and greater transparency in international decision-making, saying both were overdue and necessary to restore confidence in the UN system. “More participative deliberations and more transparent decision-making are both overdue,” he said.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unga-2026-how-many-countries-are-members-of-the-united-nations-full-list-1789550537103"><strong>UN General Assembly 2026: 193 member countries, key events and what to expect</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Jaishankar meets Swiss, Nauru leaders</strong></h2><p>Jaishankar's UNGA schedule also included bilateral meetings. He met Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis and discussed economic ties following the entry into force of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement.</p><p>“A warm meeting with Swiss FM @ignaziocassis #UNHighLevelWeek. Took stock of our strengthening economic ties with the entry into force of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement. Also discussed global issues and closer multilateral cooperation,” Jaishankar said in a post on X.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">A warm meeting with Swiss FM <a href="https://x.com/ignaziocassis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ignaziocassis</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/UNHighLevelWeek?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNHighLevelWeek</a><br><br>Took stock of our strengthening economic ties with the entry into force of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement. Also discussed global issues and closer multilateral cooperation. <br><br>🇮🇳🇨🇭 <a href="https://t.co/RVLMAIQ2fj">pic.twitter.com/RVLMAIQ2fj</a></p>&mdash; Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2102160987260322002?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Welcomed the opportunity to meet FM <a href="https://x.com/andrii_sybiha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@andrii_sybiha</a> again, after my recent visit to Ukraine.<br><br>Our conversation focused on developments over the past few weeks.<br><br>🇮🇳 🇺🇦 <a href="https://t.co/SehmSu1sxm">pic.twitter.com/SehmSu1sxm</a></p>&mdash; Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2102216624283738315?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">A good meeting with FM <a href="https://x.com/MihaiPopsoi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MihaiPopsoi</a> of Moldova <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/UNGA81?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNGA81</a><br><br>Noted the progress in our bilateral political, economic and educational ties. Exchanged views on the Ukraine conflict. <br><br>🇮🇳 🇲🇩 <a href="https://t.co/6D0vSA5h50">pic.twitter.com/6D0vSA5h50</a></p>&mdash; Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2102194802364223873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>He separately met Nauru President David Adeang and highlighted India's development partnership with the Pacific island nation. Jaishankar said the two countries valued their bilateral and multilateral cooperation.</p><h2><strong>First V4-India foreign ministers’ meeting</strong></h2><p>Earlier, Jaishankar attended the first Visegrád Group, or V4, and India Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, involving Poland, Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic.</p><p>The countries agreed to deepen cooperation across politics, trade, technology, defence, education and people-to-people exchanges. They also discussed technology and innovation, space, connectivity and mobility, along with international developments including the Ukraine conflict and the situation in the Gulf.</p><p>The sides agreed to hold annual foreign ministers' meetings and establish an annual business forum. Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár said the V4 countries supported India's permanent membership of the UN Security Council.</p>

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has warned that the global order is under growing stress, calling for stronger multilateralism and reforms to international institutions. He also flagged the “four F” crisis of fuel, food, fertiliser and finance.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who is leading the Indian delegation at the ongoing United Nations General Assembly Summit in New York on Monday (Sep 21), issued a clarion call for multilateralism. Addressing the inaugural Partners for Multilateralism Summit on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly, Jaishankar said the global order was under growing strain and called for a stronger, more effective multilateral system as geopolitical competition, conflicts and economic disruptions reshape international relations. Global order under stress: Jaishankar Jaishankar said the world was going through a period of major structural change, marked by heightened competition and geopolitical tensions. “We meet at a time when the global order is under stress,” Jaishankar said. He warned that if the current trends continued unchecked, they could undermine the principle of international cooperation. “That is why it is so essential that multilateralism asserts itself strongly at this juncture,” he said. The summit brought together countries seeking to strengthen cooperation and support reform of international institutions. Also read | Global wars, AI, Covid-19 and more: Here's what's on top agenda as world leaders gather in New York for UNGA 2026 Jaishankar flags ‘four F’ crisis The External Affairs Minister said the challenges facing the global community were not limited to diplomatic disagreements but directly affected peace, security and development. He listed climate action and climate justice, emerging technologies, development finance, counterterrorism, resilient supply chains and pandemic preparedness among the areas where international cooperation was needed. “The four ‘F crisis’ of Fuel, food, fertiliser and finance cannot be left to itself,” Jaishankar said. He argued that countries should pursue practical measures even while broader disputes and conflicts remain unresolved. “That objective can be realised through a range of efforts, through a combination of initiatives,” he said, adding that specific issues could be addressed even as countries continued working towards wider peace. India pushes for ‘reformed multilateralism’ Jaishankar also called for new international frameworks to address emerging technologies and vulnerabilities in global supply chains. “Where new capabilities and concerns arise, there is a very powerful case for frameworks and guardrails,” he said. “Where there is a threat of choke points, dominance and disruptions, de-risking and diversifying must be encouraged.” He said international law, rules and norms must remain central to the functioning of the global system. “Multilateralism will be best served when international law, rules and norms are scrupulously observed,” he said. For India, he argued, strengthening multilateralism also requires reforming the institutions through which it operates. “For Multilateralism to forge ahead its advocacy and its practice must both be strengthened. Reformed Multilateralism is therefore essential,” Jaishankar said.

<p>External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has warned that the global order is under growing stress, calling for stronger multilateralism and reforms to international institutions. He also flagged the “four F” crisis of fuel, food, fertiliser and finance.</p>

India at UNGA81: Jaishankar warns global order under 'growing stress', pushes for ‘reformed multilateralism’

<p>US President Donald Trump is expected to use his address to the United Nations on Tuesday to highlight what he describes as victories on the battlefield and progress as a peacemaker, as his stalled war against Iran continues to create wider regional and economic repercussions. Trump is likely to repeat his frequent claims that the United States has become ‘the hottest country’ in the world under his leadership.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He is also expected to defend the decision to wage war against Iran, despite the conflict so far failing to achieve the White House's stated objectives and contributing to significant economic disruption following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.</p><p>At the same time, Trump could use the UN platform to promote his efforts to end the Gaza conflict and his continuing push to bring additional Arab countries into the Abraham Accords with Israel.</p><h2>Anti-UN message at the United Nations?</h2><p>Trump's keynote address at the opening of the UN General Assembly's high-level week will give him a major international platform to renew his criticism of the global organization. His speech last year was marked by extraordinary accusations that the United Nations had sabotaged his appearance after an escalator at its New York headquarters briefly stopped and his teleprompter malfunctioned.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Since returning to office, Trump has repeatedly criticized the UN and its Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Washington reportedly paid $725 million into the organization's budget last week, avoiding the possibility of losing some of its voting rights.</p><p>Trump could also face skepticism over his claims of a historic US victory after a security agreement is signed Tuesday concerning a US presence in Greenland. Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, has become a major source of tension after Trump repeatedly threatened moves involving the territory, deepening disagreements within longstanding US-led alliances.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Alongside his General Assembly speech, Trump is expected to hold meetings with Britain's new prime minister, Andy Burnham, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Japanese premier Sanae Takaichi and Venezuela's interim leader Delcy Rodriguez. Rodriguez has governed under intense US pressure since her predecessor Nicolas Maduro was captured by US forces in January.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-helipad-event-overshadowed-by-audio-failure-as-major-tv-networks-suspend-pool-coverage-1790042411507"><strong>Trump's helipad event overshadowed by audio failure as major TV networks suspend pool coverage</strong></a></p><h2>Trump and the escalator controversy</h2><p>Trump's address to world leaders last year also drew attention for his lengthy complaints about an escalator that stopped while he was using it. He suggested the incident had been deliberate and also criticized a malfunctioning teleprompter. During the speech, he falsely accused London's mayor of imposing Islamic law and warned that Europe was in "serious trouble" over migration. Trump has continued to refer to the incidents.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"They turned off the escalator," Trump said last week in the Oval Office. "Fortunately, my first lady was very strong and I was able to grab her back or another part of her body. It was actually a little bit lower than the back," he said. The escalator "has been checked and rechecked," Guterres's spokesman Stephane Dujarric said Monday. "New arrangements were made to facilitate the US delegation's use of a teleprompter, they now have a separate booth, so we hope that will work without a hitch," he added.</p><h2>UN agenda to focus on AI and global wars</h2><p>UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who opens the week of high-level speeches, is expected to address the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence as well as the numerous wars and conflicts affecting countries around the world. Brazilian President Lula Inacio Lula da Silva is scheduled to speak immediately before Trump. Brazil traditionally delivers the first national address at the annual gathering of world leaders.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Lula, who is seeking reelection, has previously criticized Trump's involvement in Latin American politics. Last week, he said he would tell Trump not to 'meddle' in Brazil's upcoming election. The contrasting positions are expected to add another layer of tension to an already closely watched UN gathering, where Trump's Iran policy, Gaza diplomacy, relations with international institutions and broader US foreign policy are likely to receive significant attention.</p>

Donald Trump heads to the UN amid Iran war fallout, Gaza diplomacy, Abraham Accords efforts and renewed criticism of the United Nations

US President Donald Trump is expected to use his address to the United Nations on Tuesday to highlight what he describes as victories on the battlefield and progress as a peacemaker, as his stalled war against Iran continues to create wider regional and economic repercussions. Trump is likely to repeat his frequent claims that the United States has become ‘the hottest country’ in the world under his leadership. He is also expected to defend the decision to wage war against Iran, despite the conflict so far failing to achieve the White House's stated objectives and contributing to significant economic disruption following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. At the same time, Trump could use the UN platform to promote his efforts to end the Gaza conflict and his continuing push to bring additional Arab countries into the Abraham Accords with Israel. Anti-UN message at the United Nations? Trump's keynote address at the opening of the UN General Assembly's high-level week will give him a major international platform to renew his criticism of the global organization. His speech last year was marked by extraordinary accusations that the United Nations had sabotaged his appearance after an escalator at its New York headquarters briefly stopped and his teleprompter malfunctioned. Since returning to office, Trump has repeatedly criticized the UN and its Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Washington reportedly paid $725 million into the organization's budget last week, avoiding the possibility of losing some of its voting rights. Trump could also face skepticism over his claims of a historic US victory after a security agreement is signed Tuesday concerning a US presence in Greenland. Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, has become a major source of tension after Trump repeatedly threatened moves involving the territory, deepening disagreements within longstanding US-led alliances. Alongside his General Assembly speech, Trump is expected to hold meetings with Britain's new prime minister, Andy Burnham, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Japanese premier Sanae Takaichi and Venezuela's interim leader Delcy Rodriguez. Rodriguez has governed under intense US pressure since her predecessor Nicolas Maduro was captured by US forces in January. Also Read: Trump's helipad event overshadowed by audio failure as major TV networks suspend pool coverage Trump and the escalator controversy Trump's address to world leaders last year also drew attention for his lengthy complaints about an escalator that stopped while he was using it. He suggested the incident had been deliberate and also criticized a malfunctioning teleprompter. During the speech, he falsely accused London's mayor of imposing Islamic law and warned that Europe was in "serious trouble" over migration. Trump has continued to refer to the incidents. "They turned off the escalator," Trump said last week in the Oval Office. "Fortunately, my first lady was very strong and I was able to grab her back or another part of her body. It was actually a little bit lower than the back," he said. The escalator "has been checked and rechecked," Guterres's spokesman Stephane Dujarric said Monday. "New arrangements were made to facilitate the US delegation's use of a teleprompter, they now have a separate booth, so we hope that will work without a hitch," he added. UN agenda to focus on AI and global wars UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who opens the week of high-level speeches, is expected to address the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence as well as the numerous wars and conflicts affecting countries around the world. Brazilian President Lula Inacio Lula da Silva is scheduled to speak immediately before Trump. Brazil traditionally delivers the first national address at the annual gathering of world leaders. Lula, who is seeking reelection, has previously criticized Trump's involvement in Latin American politics. Last week, he said he would tell Trump not to 'meddle' in Brazil's upcoming election. The contrasting positions are expected to add another layer of tension to an already closely watched UN gathering, where Trump's Iran policy, Gaza diplomacy, relations with international institutions and broader US foreign policy are likely to receive significant attention.

<p>Trump heads to the UNGA amid fallout from the Iran war, expected to defend US actions while highlighting Gaza diplomacy and peacemaking efforts</p>

US-Iran war, peace deals and more: What to expect from Trump's UNGA 2026 speech

<p>Despite the ongoing conflict between Washington and Tehran, US has granted visas to Iranian officials so that they can travel to the UN General Assembly (UNGA) in New York this week. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkia, who will travel to New York for the meet is slated to deliver a major address outlining the Islamic Republic’s principled foreign policy doctrine and regional diplomacy.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Alongside his speech Pezeshkia is scheduled to conduct a series of bilateral meetings with heads of state and top international dignitaries on the sidelines of the summit.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>US had earlier denied visas to the entire Iranian media delegation accompanying the president. However, visas has now been granted to President Pezeshkian, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and essential members of the core official delegation.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Consistent with our host country obligations, the core delegation from the Iranian regime will be able to attend UN General Assembly High Level Week,” the State Department spokesman said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-trump-meet-how-much-is-the-us-china-bilateral-trade-and-what-is-on-agenda-1789977664165">Xi-Trump meet: How much is the US, China bilateral trade and what is on agenda</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>But the Iranian delegation faces severe geographic travel restrictions claim Iranian media.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Washington has imposed stringent, punitive operational limitations. The Iranian delegation faces severe geographic travel restrictions confining officials strictly to areas in and around the UN precinct, coupled with a series of petty prohibitions on basic commercial transactions and local store memberships," reported Tehrantimes.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei strongly censured the hostile maneuvers, and called it a “crude propaganda” of Washington.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“It treats the world as if it were Pluribus: a hive in which minds are expected to switch off, eyes lock onto Washington’s lips, and its narrative is swallowed whole,” Baghaei wrote on X.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

US has now granted visa to President Pezeshkian, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and essential members of the core official delegation.

Despite the ongoing conflict between Washington and Tehran, US has granted visas to Iranian officials so that they can travel to the UN General Assembly (UNGA) in New York this week. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkia, who will travel to New York for the meet is slated to deliver a major address outlining the Islamic Republic’s principled foreign policy doctrine and regional diplomacy. Alongside his speech Pezeshkia is scheduled to conduct a series of bilateral meetings with heads of state and top international dignitaries on the sidelines of the summit. US had earlier denied visas to the entire Iranian media delegation accompanying the president. However, visas has now been granted to President Pezeshkian, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and essential members of the core official delegation. “Consistent with our host country obligations, the core delegation from the Iranian regime will be able to attend UN General Assembly High Level Week,” the State Department spokesman said. ALSO READ: Xi-Trump meet: How much is the US, China bilateral trade and what is on agenda But the Iranian delegation faces severe geographic travel restrictions claim Iranian media. "Washington has imposed stringent, punitive operational limitations. The Iranian delegation faces severe geographic travel restrictions confining officials strictly to areas in and around the UN precinct, coupled with a series of petty prohibitions on basic commercial transactions and local store memberships," reported Tehrantimes. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei strongly censured the hostile maneuvers, and called it a “crude propaganda” of Washington. “It treats the world as if it were Pluribus: a hive in which minds are expected to switch off, eyes lock onto Washington’s lips, and its narrative is swallowed whole,” Baghaei wrote on X.

<p>US has now granted visa to President Pezeshkian, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and essential members of the core official delegation.</p>

Stringent operational limitations for Iranian delegation at UNGA, claims state media

<p>World leaders are set to gather in New York for the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, with the high-level General Debate running from September 22 to September 28, 2026. Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman is presiding over one of the biggest diplomatic gatherings on the global calendar. Elected as president of the 81st UNGA on June 2, 2026, after defeating Cyprus’ candidate Andreas Kakouris in a secret ballot, he secured 99 of the 190 votes cast. His one-year term formally began with the opening of the session on September 8.</p><h2><strong>Who is Khalilur Rahman?</strong></h2><p>Rahman is a career diplomat who joined Bangladesh’s foreign service in 1979. He later served at Bangladesh’s Permanent Mission to the UN in New York and represented Dhaka in the General Assembly’s Economic and Financial Committee.</p><p>His association with the UN spans more than three decades. In 1991, he joined the UN system as a special adviser at the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) in Geneva. Over the following 25 years, he held senior positions in New York and Geneva, working on international trade, finance and development.</p><p>Rahman became Bangladesh’s foreign minister in February 2026. Before that, he served as national security adviser and as high representative for Rohingya affairs in Bangladesh’s interim government.</p><h2><strong>What does he want to achieve?</strong></h2><p>Rahman has made restoring confidence in multilateralism a central theme of his presidency. His programme is built around six priorities, including peace and security, sustainable development, climate action, human rights, technology and UN reform.</p><p>“I will be the President of all of you,” Rahman said after his election, pledging to engage all member states and seek common ground while recognising differences.</p><p>The 81st session comes as the UN faces wars, geopolitical divisions, humanitarian crises and questions over the future of multilateral cooperation. Its official theme is “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: a United Nations That Delivers for All.”</p>

Khalilur Rahman, Bangladesh’s veteran diplomat and foreign minister, is presiding over the 81st UN General Assembly, with a focus on restoring trust, peace, development, climate action and UN reforms.

World leaders are set to gather in New York for the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, with the high-level General Debate running from September 22 to September 28, 2026. Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman is presiding over one of the biggest diplomatic gatherings on the global calendar. Elected as president of the 81st UNGA on June 2, 2026, after defeating Cyprus’ candidate Andreas Kakouris in a secret ballot, he secured 99 of the 190 votes cast. His one-year term formally began with the opening of the session on September 8. Who is Khalilur Rahman? Rahman is a career diplomat who joined Bangladesh’s foreign service in 1979. He later served at Bangladesh’s Permanent Mission to the UN in New York and represented Dhaka in the General Assembly’s Economic and Financial Committee. His association with the UN spans more than three decades. In 1991, he joined the UN system as a special adviser at the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) in Geneva. Over the following 25 years, he held senior positions in New York and Geneva, working on international trade, finance and development. Rahman became Bangladesh’s foreign minister in February 2026. Before that, he served as national security adviser and as high representative for Rohingya affairs in Bangladesh’s interim government. What does he want to achieve? Rahman has made restoring confidence in multilateralism a central theme of his presidency. His programme is built around six priorities, including peace and security, sustainable development, climate action, human rights, technology and UN reform. “I will be the President of all of you,” Rahman said after his election, pledging to engage all member states and seek common ground while recognising differences. The 81st session comes as the UN faces wars, geopolitical divisions, humanitarian crises and questions over the future of multilateral cooperation. Its official theme is “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: a United Nations That Delivers for All.”

<p>Khalilur Rahman, Bangladesh’s veteran diplomat and foreign minister, is presiding over the 81st UN General Assembly, with a focus on restoring trust, peace, development, climate action and UN reforms.</p>

Who is Khalilur Rahman? All you need to know about 81st UN General Assembly President

<p>Next week, world leaders will convene in New York for the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. The meeting unfolds at a difficult moment for global diplomacy, and wars, climate change, economic pressures and growing questions over the future of multilateralism are set to dominate the agenda.</p><p>The high-level week of the General Assembly’s 81st session runs from September 22 to 28, with nearly 130 heads of state and government expected to attend in person.</p><p>This year's General Debate will be presided over by the newly elected Assembly President Khalilur Rahman of Bangladesh under the theme, “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.”</p><p>The gathering comes as divisions inside the UN remain sharp and the Security Council struggles to find common ground on some of the world's major conflicts. The issues on the table stretch well beyond war, covering the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, climate action, rising seas, pandemic preparedness, racism, nuclear disarmament and the governance of artificial intelligence. Here's all you need to know about the UNGA81 agenda.</p><h2><strong>Gaza, Ukraine and Iran</strong></h2><p>The wars in Gaza, Ukraine and Iran are expected to take centre stage during the political debate.</p><p>The UNGA meeting opens against a backdrop of continuing fighting and stalled diplomacy. On one hand, the Gaza ceasefire has held unevenly, while diplomatic efforts to end Russia's war in Ukraine have yet to produce a breakthrough.</p><p>The conflict involving Iran is also expected to loom large. US-Israeli strikes on Iran and Iranian retaliation against US bases have added fresh pressure to an already tense regional environment and disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.</p><p>That diplomatic pressure is compounded by divisions in the Security Council itself, particularly over the status of sanctions against Iran. The resulting deadlock has affected the council's ability to reach agreement on routine business, the supplied material says.</p><p>Leaders are also expected to discuss Sudan, Myanmar, Haiti and Cyprus alongside the major conflicts.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unga-2026-how-many-countries-are-members-of-the-united-nations-full-list-1789550537103"><strong>UN General Assembly 2026: 193 member countries, key events and what to expect</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Climate Change: Can the SDGs still be achieved?</strong></h2><p>Before the General Debate begins, the UN will hold its annual SDG Moment on September 18.</p><p>In 2015, the member nations adopted 17 Sustainable Development Goals in 2015, covering issues such as poverty, hunger, education, clean water and energy. These SDGs have a deadline of 2030, and with less than five years remaining, the focus will be on whether governments can accelerate implementation rather than simply restate existing commitments.</p><p>The UN says this year's SDG Moment, under the theme “Together, We Can Get There”, will examine how proven solutions can be scaled up despite financing gaps, conflicts, climate shocks, debt pressures and inequality.</p><h2><strong>Climate and the threat of rising seas</strong></h2><p>Climate diplomacy will get a major platform on September 23, when Secretary-General António Guterres convenes a high-level event on climate action and the just transition.</p><p>The discussions will focus on accelerating the shift to renewable energy, increasing climate finance for developing countries and strengthening support for communities already facing climate impacts.</p><p>The following day, the General Assembly will hold a high-level meeting on sea-level rise, with particular attention on small island developing states and low-lying coastal communities. The meeting is expected to produce an action-oriented declaration.</p><h2><strong>Lessons from Covid</strong></h2><p>Pandemic preparedness will also mark a return to the UN agenda on September 25.</p><p>Governments will revisit the lessons of Covid-19, including weaknesses exposed in health systems and disparities in access to vaccines, medicines and other essential supplies. The meeting will examine ways to improve prevention, preparedness and responses to future health emergencies.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unga-2026-theme-explained-what-does-restoring-trust-managing-transformation-a-united-nations-that-delivers-for-all-mean-1789715382814"><strong>UNGA 2026 theme explained: What does ‘Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all’ mean?</strong></a></p><h2><strong>AI becomes a UN issue</strong></h2><p>Artificial intelligence is also emerging as a major issue on the sidelines of the General Assembly.</p><p>Guterres has said AI governance will be part of his discussions with world leaders, with the UN looking at how to promote the safe, secure and responsible development of the technology while identifying situations in which more powerful systems require stronger safeguards.</p><p>The debate comes as governments grapple with rapid advances in AI and disagreements over how much regulation is needed.</p><h2><strong>Racism, development and nuclear weapons</strong></h2><p>September 23 will also mark the 40th anniversary of the UN Declaration on the Right to Development, while September 28 will be devoted in part to the 25th anniversary of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action against racism and related forms of discrimination.</p><p>The high-level week extends beyond September 28. On September 29, the General Assembly will hold a plenary meeting on the total elimination of nuclear weapons, an issue the UN has treated as a central disarmament priority since its earliest years.</p><h2><strong>Final UNGA season for Guterres</strong></h2><p>For Guterres, the session has added significance. His second and final term as UN secretary-general ends on December 31, 2026, making this his final General Assembly session to begin as the organisation's chief. The process of selecting his successor is already underway, with the next secretary-general due to take office on January 1, 2027.</p><p>The UN chief has repeatedly called for renewed international cooperation at a time of deepening geopolitical divisions. In a recent message, he invoked the opening words of the UN Charter: “We the peoples”.</p><p>For the UN, the test of this year's gathering will be whether that language can translate into tangible cooperation in a world where consensus on some of the most urgent crises remains increasingly difficult to achieve.</p>

World leaders are heading to New York for UNGA81 as wars, climate threats and rapid advances in AI test international cooperation. From Gaza and Ukraine to rising seas and pandemic preparedness, here are the key issues to watch.

Next week, world leaders will convene in New York for the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. The meeting unfolds at a difficult moment for global diplomacy, and wars, climate change, economic pressures and growing questions over the future of multilateralism are set to dominate the agenda. The high-level week of the General Assembly’s 81st session runs from September 22 to 28, with nearly 130 heads of state and government expected to attend in person. This year's General Debate will be presided over by the newly elected Assembly President Khalilur Rahman of Bangladesh under the theme, “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.” The gathering comes as divisions inside the UN remain sharp and the Security Council struggles to find common ground on some of the world's major conflicts. The issues on the table stretch well beyond war, covering the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, climate action, rising seas, pandemic preparedness, racism, nuclear disarmament and the governance of artificial intelligence. Here's all you need to know about the UNGA81 agenda. Gaza, Ukraine and Iran The wars in Gaza, Ukraine and Iran are expected to take centre stage during the political debate. The UNGA meeting opens against a backdrop of continuing fighting and stalled diplomacy. On one hand, the Gaza ceasefire has held unevenly, while diplomatic efforts to end Russia's war in Ukraine have yet to produce a breakthrough. The conflict involving Iran is also expected to loom large. US-Israeli strikes on Iran and Iranian retaliation against US bases have added fresh pressure to an already tense regional environment and disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. That diplomatic pressure is compounded by divisions in the Security Council itself, particularly over the status of sanctions against Iran. The resulting deadlock has affected the council's ability to reach agreement on routine business, the supplied material says. Leaders are also expected to discuss Sudan, Myanmar, Haiti and Cyprus alongside the major conflicts. Also read | UN General Assembly 2026: 193 member countries, key events and what to expect Climate Change: Can the SDGs still be achieved? Before the General Debate begins, the UN will hold its annual SDG Moment on September 18. In 2015, the member nations adopted 17 Sustainable Development Goals in 2015, covering issues such as poverty, hunger, education, clean water and energy. These SDGs have a deadline of 2030, and with less than five years remaining, the focus will be on whether governments can accelerate implementation rather than simply restate existing commitments. The UN says this year's SDG Moment, under the theme “Together, We Can Get There”, will examine how proven solutions can be scaled up despite financing gaps, conflicts, climate shocks, debt pressures and inequality. Climate and the threat of rising seas Climate diplomacy will get a major platform on September 23, when Secretary-General António Guterres convenes a high-level event on climate action and the just transition. The discussions will focus on accelerating the shift to renewable energy, increasing climate finance for developing countries and strengthening support for communities already facing climate impacts. The following day, the General Assembly will hold a high-level meeting on sea-level rise, with particular attention on small island developing states and low-lying coastal communities. The meeting is expected to produce an action-oriented declaration. Lessons from Covid Pandemic preparedness will also mark a return to the UN agenda on September 25. Governments will revisit the lessons of Covid-19, including weaknesses exposed in health systems and disparities in access to vaccines, medicines and other essential supplies. The meeting will examine ways to improve prevention, preparedness and responses to future health emergencies. Also read | UNGA 2026 theme explained: What does ‘Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all’ mean? AI becomes a UN issue Artificial intelligence is also emerging as a major issue on the sidelines of the General Assembly. Guterres has said AI governance will be part of his discussions with world leaders, with the UN looking at how to promote the safe, secure and responsible development of the technology while identifying situations in which more powerful systems require stronger safeguards. The debate comes as governments grapple with rapid advances in AI and disagreements over how much regulation is needed. Racism, development and nuclear weapons September 23 will also mark the 40th anniversary of the UN Declaration on the Right to Development, while September 28 will be devoted in part to the 25th anniversary of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action against racism and related forms of discrimination. The high-level week extends beyond September 28. On September 29, the General Assembly will hold a plenary meeting on the total elimination of nuclear weapons, an issue the UN has treated as a central disarmament priority since its earliest years. Final UNGA season for Guterres For Guterres, the session has added significance. His second and final term as UN secretary-general ends on December 31, 2026, making this his final General Assembly session to begin as the organisation's chief. The process of selecting his successor is already underway, with the next secretary-general due to take office on January 1, 2027. The UN chief has repeatedly called for renewed international cooperation at a time of deepening geopolitical divisions. In a recent message, he invoked the opening words of the UN Charter: “We the peoples”. For the UN, the test of this year's gathering will be whether that language can translate into tangible cooperation in a world where consensus on some of the most urgent crises remains increasingly difficult to achieve.

<p>World leaders are heading to New York for UNGA81 as wars, climate threats and rapid advances in AI test international cooperation. From Gaza and Ukraine to rising seas and pandemic preparedness, here are the key issues to watch.</p>

Global wars, AI, Covid-19 and more: Here's what's on top agenda as world leaders gather in New York for UNGA 2026

<p>Palestinian Ambassador to India Abdullah M. Abu Shawesh has hit out at Washington and accused it of practising “might create the right” after the United States again denied President Mahmoud Abbas a visa for the UN General Assembly. Abbas would address the Assembly by pre-recorded statement for the second consecutive year. &nbsp;The Trump administration has extended visa restrictions on Palestinian Authority and PLO officials, citing alleged failures to reform, payments to prisoners’ families etc.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Speaking to WION, as world leaders prepare for the high-level week in New York, Abu Shawesh said the United States, as host under the UN Headquarters Agreement, had no legal right to bar a recognised official from the meeting. “This is the era which we are living in, where the might create the right,” he said. &nbsp;On India, the ambassador said relations remained “at the very highest level.” He pointed to a visit about a month ago by a senior Indian diplomat, during which New Delhi announced a hospital in the West Bank with an investment of about $28 million, plus a vocational training centre.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-three-killed-several-injured-in-philippines-school-shooting-1789718730184"><strong>At least three killed, several injured in Philippines school shooting</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar had earlier flagged the hospital and skills project; India has also discussed prosthetic care after the war in Gaza. Ground was broken in August on a 200-bed super-speciality hospital in Jenin, with a trauma centre, alongside medicines and other health assistance. “India has been with us since the very first day,” Abu Shawesh said. Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin visited India earlier this year.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for convening the BRICS summit in New Delhi “in a very tipping and very significant time.” The joint declaration, he said, included Palestine, a two-state solution with East Jerusalem as capital. BRICS text also opposed forced displacement and backed a sovereign Palestinian state on 1967 lines.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Separately, the ambassador criticised commemorations of the 1918 Battle of Haifa as a "false" narrative. Britain itself became the occupying power, and India was then a colony without an independent decision to “liberate” anyone, he argued. His mission had screened a short film on the issue. India has long backed a two-state solution and UN resolutions on Palestine while maintaining strong ties with Israel.</p>

The Trump administration has extended visa restrictions on Palestinian Authority and PLO officials, citing alleged failures to reform, payments to prisoners’ families etc

Palestinian Ambassador to India Abdullah M. Abu Shawesh has hit out at Washington and accused it of practising “might create the right” after the United States again denied President Mahmoud Abbas a visa for the UN General Assembly. Abbas would address the Assembly by pre-recorded statement for the second consecutive year. The Trump administration has extended visa restrictions on Palestinian Authority and PLO officials, citing alleged failures to reform, payments to prisoners’ families etc. Speaking to WION, as world leaders prepare for the high-level week in New York, Abu Shawesh said the United States, as host under the UN Headquarters Agreement, had no legal right to bar a recognised official from the meeting. “This is the era which we are living in, where the might create the right,” he said. On India, the ambassador said relations remained “at the very highest level.” He pointed to a visit about a month ago by a senior Indian diplomat, during which New Delhi announced a hospital in the West Bank with an investment of about $28 million, plus a vocational training centre. Also Read: At least three killed, several injured in Philippines school shooting External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar had earlier flagged the hospital and skills project; India has also discussed prosthetic care after the war in Gaza. Ground was broken in August on a 200-bed super-speciality hospital in Jenin, with a trauma centre, alongside medicines and other health assistance. “India has been with us since the very first day,” Abu Shawesh said. Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin visited India earlier this year. He congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for convening the BRICS summit in New Delhi “in a very tipping and very significant time.” The joint declaration, he said, included Palestine, a two-state solution with East Jerusalem as capital. BRICS text also opposed forced displacement and backed a sovereign Palestinian state on 1967 lines. Separately, the ambassador criticised commemorations of the 1918 Battle of Haifa as a "false" narrative. Britain itself became the occupying power, and India was then a colony without an independent decision to “liberate” anyone, he argued. His mission had screened a short film on the issue. India has long backed a two-state solution and UN resolutions on Palestine while maintaining strong ties with Israel.

<p>The Trump administration has extended visa restrictions on Palestinian Authority and PLO officials, citing alleged failures to reform, payments to prisoners’ families etc</p>

Palestinian Ambassador Shawesh criticises US for blocking Abbas' visa ahead of UNGA

<p>The 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has opened with a theme that reflects the challenges facing the international system: “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations That Delivers for All.” The theme was put forward by General Assembly President Khalilur Rahman of Bangladesh, who was elected to lead the 2026–27 session in June.</p><p>But what does the phrase actually mean? At its core, the UNGA 2026 theme is about rebuilding confidence in multilateral institutions while ensuring that the United Nations can adapt to a rapidly changing world. Rahman’s programme links trust and reform, arguing that the United Nations needs to demonstrate through concrete results that it can respond effectively to global challenges.</p><h2>What does ‘Restoring Trust’ mean?</h2><p>The first part of the theme focuses on a growing challenge for international cooperation: trust in the ability of global institutions to deliver results. The UN’s 81st session begins against a backdrop of armed conflicts, humanitarian crises, widening inequalities, climate emergencies and pressure on the multilateral system. The President’s programme says these developments have contributed to an erosion of confidence in international institutions.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>For Rahman, restoring trust means showing that the UN can move beyond declarations and produce practical outcomes.</p><p>In his opening remarks on September 8, he said restoring trust requires both 'delivery and reform', with the organisation demonstrating that it can effectively serve the people it represents. That also means strengthening cooperation among UN member states and making the organisation more accountable, responsive and effective.</p><h2>What does ‘Managing Transformation’ mean?</h2><p>The second part of the theme focuses on the major changes reshaping the world. Technology, artificial intelligence, climate change, shifting economic structures, demographic changes and new security challenges are transforming societies and international relations. The UNGA programme particularly highlights AI, big data and digital platforms. While these technologies can accelerate development, the UN also identifies risks including inequality, bias, surveillance and misuse.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The theme therefore is not simply about embracing technological change. It is also about governing that change fairly and ensuring that developing countries and communities are not left behind. Rahman has called for inclusive implementation of the Global Digital Compact, investment to close the digital divide and stronger international cooperation on AI governance.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-underwater-footage-shows-capsized-indonesian-passenger-ship-as-129-remain-missing-1789711156071"><strong>WATCH | Underwater footage shows capsized Indonesian passenger ship as 129 remain missing</strong></a></p><h2>What does ‘A United Nations That Delivers for All’ mean?</h2><p>The final part of the theme connects trust and transformation with the UN's ability to deliver results for its entire membership.</p><p>The programme is organised around six interconnected pillars:</p><ul><li>Silence the Guns, Amplify the Voices — peace, security and justice</li><li>No One Left Behind, No Country Left Out — sustainable development and accelerating the SDGs</li><li>Our Planet, Our Pact — climate resilience and environmental sustainability</li><li>Rights and Protection: Freedom from Fear and Want — human rights and humanitarian action</li><li>Innovation with Inclusion — AI, digital governance, science and technology</li><li>We the Peoples, Reimagined — UN reform and inclusive global governance&nbsp;</li></ul><p>The six areas are designed to be interconnected. The UN argues that peace, development, climate action, human rights and effective global governance cannot be treated as completely separate challenges.</p><h2>Why is the theme significant in 2026?</h2><p>The timing is important because the UN is entering its ninth decade amid major geopolitical and economic changes. The 81st session follows the UN's 80th anniversary and comes as the organisation continues initiatives such as UN80 reforms, the Pact for the Future and the Global Digital Compact. The new session seeks to turn those reform efforts into more effective and member-driven action.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The theme also places particular emphasis on making multilateralism more responsive to today's challenges rather than relying solely on structures created decades ago. Rahman has described the task as making the United Nations “fit for the future”, while emphasising the importance of dialogue and cooperation among member states.</p><h2>From conflicts to AI: What will UNGA 2026 focus on?</h2><p>The theme covers a wide range of issues expected to dominate discussions during the 81st session and its High-Level Week.</p><p>These include peace and security, sustainable development, climate change, humanitarian crises, human rights, AI governance and digital inclusion.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The High-Level Week is scheduled for September 22–28, 2026, with nearly 130 heads of state and government expected to attend in person, according to the UN. For the UN, the central challenge is therefore twofold: restore confidence in multilateral cooperation while adapting the institution to a world undergoing rapid transformation. That is the broader meaning behind “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations That Delivers for All.”</p>

UNGA 2026 theme explained: Understand what ‘Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation’ means and why trust, reform, AI and global cooperation matter

The 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has opened with a theme that reflects the challenges facing the international system: “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations That Delivers for All.” The theme was put forward by General Assembly President Khalilur Rahman of Bangladesh, who was elected to lead the 2026–27 session in June. But what does the phrase actually mean? At its core, the UNGA 2026 theme is about rebuilding confidence in multilateral institutions while ensuring that the United Nations can adapt to a rapidly changing world. Rahman’s programme links trust and reform, arguing that the United Nations needs to demonstrate through concrete results that it can respond effectively to global challenges. What does ‘Restoring Trust’ mean? The first part of the theme focuses on a growing challenge for international cooperation: trust in the ability of global institutions to deliver results. The UN’s 81st session begins against a backdrop of armed conflicts, humanitarian crises, widening inequalities, climate emergencies and pressure on the multilateral system. The President’s programme says these developments have contributed to an erosion of confidence in international institutions. For Rahman, restoring trust means showing that the UN can move beyond declarations and produce practical outcomes. In his opening remarks on September 8, he said restoring trust requires both 'delivery and reform', with the organisation demonstrating that it can effectively serve the people it represents. That also means strengthening cooperation among UN member states and making the organisation more accountable, responsive and effective. What does ‘Managing Transformation’ mean? The second part of the theme focuses on the major changes reshaping the world. Technology, artificial intelligence, climate change, shifting economic structures, demographic changes and new security challenges are transforming societies and international relations. The UNGA programme particularly highlights AI, big data and digital platforms. While these technologies can accelerate development, the UN also identifies risks including inequality, bias, surveillance and misuse. The theme therefore is not simply about embracing technological change. It is also about governing that change fairly and ensuring that developing countries and communities are not left behind. Rahman has called for inclusive implementation of the Global Digital Compact, investment to close the digital divide and stronger international cooperation on AI governance. Also Read: WATCH | Underwater footage shows capsized Indonesian passenger ship as 129 remain missing What does ‘A United Nations That Delivers for All’ mean? The final part of the theme connects trust and transformation with the UN's ability to deliver results for its entire membership. The programme is organised around six interconnected pillars: Silence the Guns, Amplify the Voices — peace, security and justice No One Left Behind, No Country Left Out — sustainable development and accelerating the SDGs Our Planet, Our Pact — climate resilience and environmental sustainability Rights and Protection: Freedom from Fear and Want — human rights and humanitarian action Innovation with Inclusion — AI, digital governance, science and technology We the Peoples, Reimagined — UN reform and inclusive global governance The six areas are designed to be interconnected. The UN argues that peace, development, climate action, human rights and effective global governance cannot be treated as completely separate challenges. Why is the theme significant in 2026? The timing is important because the UN is entering its ninth decade amid major geopolitical and economic changes. The 81st session follows the UN's 80th anniversary and comes as the organisation continues initiatives such as UN80 reforms, the Pact for the Future and the Global Digital Compact. The new session seeks to turn those reform efforts into more effective and member-driven action. The theme also places particular emphasis on making multilateralism more responsive to today's challenges rather than relying solely on structures created decades ago. Rahman has described the task as making the United Nations “fit for the future”, while emphasising the importance of dialogue and cooperation among member states. From conflicts to AI: What will UNGA 2026 focus on? The theme covers a wide range of issues expected to dominate discussions during the 81st session and its High-Level Week. These include peace and security, sustainable development, climate change, humanitarian crises, human rights, AI governance and digital inclusion. The High-Level Week is scheduled for September 22–28, 2026, with nearly 130 heads of state and government expected to attend in person, according to the UN. For the UN, the central challenge is therefore twofold: restore confidence in multilateral cooperation while adapting the institution to a world undergoing rapid transformation. That is the broader meaning behind “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations That Delivers for All.”

<p>UNGA 2026's theme focuses on rebuilding trust in the United Nations, managing global change and ensuring the organisation delivers for people worldwide</p>

UNGA 2026 theme explained: What does ‘Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all’ mean?

<p>The United States will allow a core Iranian delegation to attend the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York City next week, despite the ongoing conflict between Washington and Tehran. A source familiar with the matter said the Iranian delegation will include President Masoud Pezeshkian, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and essential staff members for the UNGA high-level week.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Consistent with our host country obligations, the core delegation from the Iranian regime will be able to attend UN General Assembly High Level Week,” the State Department spokesman said. The State Department official said the delegation will be significantly scaled down and subject to tighter travel restrictions and luxury import prohibitions ‘per our policy’. The 81st UNGA is set to take place amid continued military tensions between the United States and Iran, with uncertainty surrounding efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and restart negotiations between Washington and Tehran.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The disruption of the strategic waterway, through which roughly 20 per cent of global seaborne energy transit passes, has contributed to a sharp increase in global oil prices. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly said that the conflict with Iran is approaching an end. He has also said that his administration has held direct discussions with Iranian officials, although fighting continues in the wider region. Meanwhile, tensions have also intensified around the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, where Houthi forces have seized control and fighting has continued in Yemen involving the Saudi-led coalition.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-have-a-big-decision-coming-up-trump-says-he-s-approaching-major-crossroad-in-iran-war-1789672655068"><strong>‘I have a big decision coming up’: Trump says he’s approaching major ‘crossroad’ in Iran war</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The decision to allow Iranian officials to enter the United States for the UNGA comes as Washington has again barred Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and dozens of Palestinian Authority (PA) officials from attending the gathering in person. The Trump administration denied visas to Abbas and other PA officials for the second consecutive year. Last year, the visa restrictions meant that the Palestinian president addressed the UN General Assembly virtually instead of attending in person.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Palestinians will nevertheless be represented at the upcoming high-level UNGA session by diplomats who are already accredited to the United Nations. Without specifically naming Abbas, the State Department announced a wider visa ban affecting officials from the PA and Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). Washington cited ‘their failure to reform, contrary to their commitments to the United States, and their ongoing activities that undermine the prospects for peace’, the statement said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In response, the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates said, “Punitive measures and restrictions imposed on Palestinian officials do not contribute to advancing peace or combating violence', the authority’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates said in a statement in response. “Rather, they weaken the Palestinian partner committed to a political solution and encourage forces working to undermine the two-state solution and impose the reality of occupation, settlement and annexation by force.”</p>

US allows Iran’s President Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Araghchi to attend UNGA as Palestinian officials face visa restrictions amid global crises

The United States will allow a core Iranian delegation to attend the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York City next week, despite the ongoing conflict between Washington and Tehran. A source familiar with the matter said the Iranian delegation will include President Masoud Pezeshkian, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and essential staff members for the UNGA high-level week. “Consistent with our host country obligations, the core delegation from the Iranian regime will be able to attend UN General Assembly High Level Week,” the State Department spokesman said. The State Department official said the delegation will be significantly scaled down and subject to tighter travel restrictions and luxury import prohibitions ‘per our policy’. The 81st UNGA is set to take place amid continued military tensions between the United States and Iran, with uncertainty surrounding efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and restart negotiations between Washington and Tehran. The disruption of the strategic waterway, through which roughly 20 per cent of global seaborne energy transit passes, has contributed to a sharp increase in global oil prices. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly said that the conflict with Iran is approaching an end. He has also said that his administration has held direct discussions with Iranian officials, although fighting continues in the wider region. Meanwhile, tensions have also intensified around the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, where Houthi forces have seized control and fighting has continued in Yemen involving the Saudi-led coalition. Also Read: ‘I have a big decision coming up’: Trump says he’s approaching major ‘crossroad’ in Iran war The decision to allow Iranian officials to enter the United States for the UNGA comes as Washington has again barred Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and dozens of Palestinian Authority (PA) officials from attending the gathering in person. The Trump administration denied visas to Abbas and other PA officials for the second consecutive year. Last year, the visa restrictions meant that the Palestinian president addressed the UN General Assembly virtually instead of attending in person. The Palestinians will nevertheless be represented at the upcoming high-level UNGA session by diplomats who are already accredited to the United Nations. Without specifically naming Abbas, the State Department announced a wider visa ban affecting officials from the PA and Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). Washington cited ‘their failure to reform, contrary to their commitments to the United States, and their ongoing activities that undermine the prospects for peace’, the statement said. In response, the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates said, “Punitive measures and restrictions imposed on Palestinian officials do not contribute to advancing peace or combating violence', the authority’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates said in a statement in response. “Rather, they weaken the Palestinian partner committed to a political solution and encourage forces working to undermine the two-state solution and impose the reality of occupation, settlement and annexation by force.”

<p>US allows a scaled-down Iranian delegation to attend UNGA 2026, while Palestinian officials face visa restrictions amid conflicts and global tensions</p>

Pezeshkian, Araghchi set to attend UNGA 2026 in New York amid ongoing conflict as US-imposed travel curbs remain

<p>President Donald Trump said on Thursday that he is approaching a critical juncture in the Iran war and has to take a decision on whether to restart massive attacks in an effort to bring the conflict to a close.</p><p>“I have a big decision coming up. Do I want to go in and annihilate them [the Iranian regime] or do I not? It’s a big decision. Anything could happen with me,” Trump told Axios.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Though the US president has made similar threats earlier, his comments come ahead of a planned meeting with leaders from six Gulf countries on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York on Tuesday.</p><p>The meeting would be crucial in charting the next phase of the war, including whether to intensify military action or make another push for diplomacy. If Trump wants to resume major combat operations, he would need agreement of support from his regional allies.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tata-trusts-chairman-noel-tata-calls-chandrasekaran-s-reappointment-illegal-rejects-tata-sons-listing-1789664770040"><strong>Tata Trusts chairman Noel Tata calls Chandrasekaran’s reappointment ‘illegal’, rejects Tata Sons listing</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Trump has been repeatedly saying in recent days that the war will end soon. However, some US officials warn that the conflict has settled into an unsustainable, neither-war-nor-peace stalemate, and they believe Trump could return to major combat operations after the midterms if a deal isn’t reached by then.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Trump made it clear that he wants to use the meeting at the UN to hear directly from regional allies about the war’s next steps.</p><p>“I want to find out where they are and how they are doing. We have been very protective of them,” Trump said.</p><p>The Gulf countries which will be participating in the meting are Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman.</p><p>Trump refused to commit, whether he will decide on the path forward before or after the midterms.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In early August, Trump held off on resuming major combat operations after Saudi Arabia and Qatar expressed concern that Iran would bomb Saudi oil and gas facilities in retaliation.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-urges-iran-to-rein-in-houthis-after-saudi-arabia-s-appeal-for-help-report-1789657903169"><strong>China urges Iran to rein in Houthis after Saudi Arabia’s appeal for help: Report</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Trump then suspended negotiations with Tehran and launched a new economic sanctions campaign, while continuing a naval blockade on Iranian ports and focusing the US military on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and increasing oil flow to the global energy market.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The US military has significantly increased oil and gas tanker transit through the strait, but the traffic is still below pre-war levels, and consequently oil prices remain high.</p><p>Trump further told Axios that he is very satisfied that the naval blockade has prevented Iran from exporting its oil. “Not one ship has gone to Iran since we started. They tried and we blew them up,” he said.</p><p>The president added that Iran is in direct contact with the US and that the Iranians still want to reach a deal.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-drone-firm-linked-to-trump-s-sons-signs-mou-with-pakistan-army-gets-initial-order-1789648161978"><strong>US drone firm linked to Trump’s sons signs MoU with Pakistan army, gets initial order</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>US officials say Trump and Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth have ordered the military to maintain its level of forces in the Middle East until the end of the year and be ready for a potential return to full-scale combat.</p><p>The officials say Trump will have to decide on the way forward soon, partly because the US military can’t stay in its current holding pattern much longer.&nbsp;</p><p>“At some point you have to decide what is the end game,” said one official.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The White House has also been working on a post-war regional strategy to contain Iran while expanding normalisation of relations between Israel and its neighbours.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Notably, the Oct. 27 election in Israel and the US midterms in November will play a prominent role in shaping up the planning.</p>

The US military has significantly increased oil and gas tanker transit through the strait, but the traffic is still below pre-war levels, and consequently oil prices remain high. President Trump said he is very satisfied that the naval blockade has prevented Iran from exporting its oil.

President Donald Trump said on Thursday that he is approaching a critical juncture in the Iran war and has to take a decision on whether to restart massive attacks in an effort to bring the conflict to a close. “I have a big decision coming up. Do I want to go in and annihilate them [the Iranian regime] or do I not? It’s a big decision. Anything could happen with me,” Trump told Axios. Though the US president has made similar threats earlier, his comments come ahead of a planned meeting with leaders from six Gulf countries on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York on Tuesday. The meeting would be crucial in charting the next phase of the war, including whether to intensify military action or make another push for diplomacy. If Trump wants to resume major combat operations, he would need agreement of support from his regional allies. Also Read: Tata Trusts chairman Noel Tata calls Chandrasekaran’s reappointment ‘illegal’, rejects Tata Sons listing Trump has been repeatedly saying in recent days that the war will end soon. However, some US officials warn that the conflict has settled into an unsustainable, neither-war-nor-peace stalemate, and they believe Trump could return to major combat operations after the midterms if a deal isn’t reached by then. Trump made it clear that he wants to use the meeting at the UN to hear directly from regional allies about the war’s next steps. “I want to find out where they are and how they are doing. We have been very protective of them,” Trump said. The Gulf countries which will be participating in the meting are Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman. Trump refused to commit, whether he will decide on the path forward before or after the midterms. In early August, Trump held off on resuming major combat operations after Saudi Arabia and Qatar expressed concern that Iran would bomb Saudi oil and gas facilities in retaliation. Also Read: China urges Iran to rein in Houthis after Saudi Arabia’s appeal for help: Report Trump then suspended negotiations with Tehran and launched a new economic sanctions campaign, while continuing a naval blockade on Iranian ports and focusing the US military on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and increasing oil flow to the global energy market. The US military has significantly increased oil and gas tanker transit through the strait, but the traffic is still below pre-war levels, and consequently oil prices remain high. Trump further told Axios that he is very satisfied that the naval blockade has prevented Iran from exporting its oil. “Not one ship has gone to Iran since we started. They tried and we blew them up,” he said. The president added that Iran is in direct contact with the US and that the Iranians still want to reach a deal. Also Read: US drone firm linked to Trump’s sons signs MoU with Pakistan army, gets initial order US officials say Trump and Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth have ordered the military to maintain its level of forces in the Middle East until the end of the year and be ready for a potential return to full-scale combat. The officials say Trump will have to decide on the way forward soon, partly because the US military can’t stay in its current holding pattern much longer. “At some point you have to decide what is the end game,” said one official. The White House has also been working on a post-war regional strategy to contain Iran while expanding normalisation of relations between Israel and its neighbours. Notably, the Oct. 27 election in Israel and the US midterms in November will play a prominent role in shaping up the planning.

<p>The US military has significantly increased oil and gas tanker transit through the strait, but the traffic is still below pre-war levels, and consequently oil prices remain high. President Trump said he is very satisfied that the naval blockade has prevented Iran from exporting its oil.</p>

‘I have a big decision coming up’: Trump says he’s approaching major ‘crossroad’ in Iran war

<p>The United Nations General Assembly is set to bring world leaders together once again as the 81st session intensifies at the UN headquarters in New York. The high-level meetings segment, scheduled for September 22-26, 2026, will see heads of state and government, ministers and senior officials from around the world discuss pressing international challenges.</p><p>The annual gathering comes as countries seek to strengthen global cooperation, advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promote collective action on peace, dignity, equality and environmental sustainability.</p><h2><strong>UN General Assembly 2026: What to expect</strong></h2><p>The 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, also known as UNGA81, will feature a series of discussions and events focused on international cooperation and practical solutions to global challenges.</p><p>Two platforms will place a particular emphasis on the Sustainable Development Goals and efforts to accelerate progress towards the 2030 Agenda.</p><p>The SDG Media Zone, produced by the UN Department of Global Communications, will run from September 21 to 25. The platform will feature interviews, panel discussions and conversations highlighting solutions to challenges linked to sustainable development.</p><p>Another key platform, the Goals Lounge, will operate from September 14 to 25. Convened by the UN Deputy Secretary-General and hosted by the UN Office for Partnerships, it will feature informal dialogues, in-depth discussions on critical issues and interactive experiences.</p><p>Events from both platforms will be available to audiences worldwide through live streams on UN WebTV.</p><h2><strong>High-level meetings to begin on September 22</strong></h2><p>The high-level segment of UNGA81 will begin on September 22 and continue through September 26. The meetings are expected to draw senior representatives from UN member states for discussions on issues affecting international peace, development and global governance.</p><p>The General Assembly remains the UN's principal deliberative, policymaking and representative body. Its annual session provides a platform for all member states to present their positions, debate international issues and work towards collective decisions.</p><h2><strong>How many countries are members of the United Nations?</strong></h2><p>The United Nations currently has 193 member states. These countries make up the organisation's membership and participate in the General Assembly, where each member state has one vote.</p><p>The UN also recognises two non-member observer states: the Holy See and the State of Palestine. While they do not have the same voting rights as member states, they can participate in the work of the General Assembly under observer status.</p><p>The full list of the 193 UN member states is arranged alphabetically below.</p><h2><strong>Full list of 193 United Nations member countries</strong></h2><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Afghanistan</td></tr><tr><td>Albania</td></tr><tr><td>Algeria</td></tr><tr><td>Andorra</td></tr><tr><td>Angola</td></tr><tr><td>Antigua and Barbuda</td></tr><tr><td>Argentina</td></tr><tr><td>Armenia</td></tr><tr><td>Australia</td></tr><tr><td>Austria</td></tr><tr><td>Azerbaijan</td></tr><tr><td>Bahamas</td></tr><tr><td>Bahrain</td></tr><tr><td>Bangladesh</td></tr><tr><td>Barbados</td></tr><tr><td>Belarus</td></tr><tr><td>Belgium</td></tr><tr><td>Belize</td></tr><tr><td>Benin</td></tr><tr><td>Bhutan</td></tr><tr><td>Bolivia</td></tr><tr><td>Bosnia and Herzegovina</td></tr><tr><td>Botswana</td></tr><tr><td>Brazil</td></tr><tr><td>Brunei Darussalam</td></tr><tr><td>Bulgaria</td></tr><tr><td>Burkina Faso</td></tr><tr><td>Burundi</td></tr><tr><td>Cabo Verde</td></tr><tr><td>Cambodia</td></tr><tr><td>Cameroon</td></tr><tr><td>Canada</td></tr><tr><td>Central African Republic</td></tr><tr><td>Chad</td></tr><tr><td>Chile</td></tr><tr><td>China</td></tr><tr><td>Colombia</td></tr><tr><td>Comoros</td></tr><tr><td>Congo</td></tr><tr><td>Costa Rica</td></tr><tr><td>Côte d'Ivoire</td></tr><tr><td>Croatia</td></tr><tr><td>Cuba</td></tr><tr><td>Cyprus</td></tr><tr><td>Czechia</td></tr><tr><td>Democratic People's Republic of Korea</td></tr><tr><td>Democratic Republic of the Congo</td></tr><tr><td>Denmark</td></tr><tr><td>Djibouti</td></tr><tr><td>Dominica</td></tr><tr><td>Dominican Republic</td></tr><tr><td>Ecuador</td></tr><tr><td>Egypt</td></tr><tr><td>El Salvador</td></tr><tr><td>Equatorial Guinea</td></tr><tr><td>Eritrea</td></tr><tr><td>Estonia</td></tr><tr><td>Eswatini</td></tr><tr><td>Ethiopia</td></tr><tr><td>Fiji</td></tr><tr><td>Finland</td></tr><tr><td>France</td></tr><tr><td>Gabon</td></tr><tr><td>Gambia</td></tr><tr><td>Georgia</td></tr><tr><td>Germany</td></tr><tr><td>Ghana</td></tr><tr><td>Greece</td></tr><tr><td>Grenada</td></tr><tr><td>Guatemala</td></tr><tr><td>Guinea</td></tr><tr><td>Guinea-Bissau</td></tr><tr><td>Guyana</td></tr><tr><td>Haiti</td></tr><tr><td>Honduras</td></tr><tr><td>Hungary</td></tr><tr><td>Iceland</td></tr><tr><td>India</td></tr><tr><td>Indonesia</td></tr><tr><td>Iran</td></tr><tr><td>Iraq</td></tr><tr><td>Ireland</td></tr><tr><td>Israel</td></tr><tr><td>Italy</td></tr><tr><td>Jamaica</td></tr><tr><td>Japan</td></tr><tr><td>Jordan</td></tr><tr><td>Kazakhstan</td></tr><tr><td>Kenya</td></tr><tr><td>Kiribati</td></tr><tr><td>Kuwait</td></tr><tr><td>Kyrgyzstan</td></tr><tr><td>Lao People's Democratic Republic</td></tr><tr><td>Latvia</td></tr><tr><td>Lebanon</td></tr><tr><td>Lesotho</td></tr><tr><td>Liberia</td></tr><tr><td>Libya</td></tr><tr><td>Liechtenstein</td></tr><tr><td>Lithuania</td></tr><tr><td>Luxembourg</td></tr><tr><td>Madagascar</td></tr><tr><td>Malawi</td></tr><tr><td>Malaysia</td></tr><tr><td>Maldives</td></tr><tr><td>Mali</td></tr><tr><td>Malta</td></tr><tr><td>Marshall Islands</td></tr><tr><td>Mauritania</td></tr><tr><td>Mauritius</td></tr><tr><td>Mexico</td></tr><tr><td>Micronesia (Federated States of)</td></tr><tr><td>Monaco</td></tr><tr><td>Mongolia</td></tr><tr><td>Montenegro</td></tr><tr><td>Morocco</td></tr><tr><td>Mozambique</td></tr><tr><td>Myanmar</td></tr><tr><td>Namibia</td></tr><tr><td>Nauru</td></tr><tr><td>Nepal</td></tr><tr><td>Netherlands</td></tr><tr><td>New Zealand</td></tr><tr><td>Nicaragua</td></tr><tr><td>Niger</td></tr><tr><td>Nigeria</td></tr><tr><td>North Macedonia</td></tr><tr><td>Norway</td></tr><tr><td>Oman</td></tr><tr><td>Pakistan</td></tr><tr><td>Palau</td></tr><tr><td>Panama</td></tr><tr><td>Papua New Guinea</td></tr><tr><td>Paraguay</td></tr><tr><td>Peru</td></tr><tr><td>Philippines</td></tr><tr><td>Poland</td></tr><tr><td>Portugal</td></tr><tr><td>Qatar</td></tr><tr><td>Republic of Korea</td></tr><tr><td>Republic of Moldova</td></tr><tr><td>Romania</td></tr><tr><td>Russian Federation</td></tr><tr><td>Rwanda</td></tr><tr><td>Saint Kitts and Nevis</td></tr><tr><td>Saint Lucia</td></tr><tr><td>Saint Vincent and the Grenadines</td></tr><tr><td>Samoa</td></tr><tr><td>San Marino</td></tr><tr><td>Sao Tome and Principe</td></tr><tr><td>Saudi Arabia</td></tr><tr><td>Senegal</td></tr><tr><td>Serbia</td></tr><tr><td>Seychelles</td></tr><tr><td>Sierra Leone</td></tr><tr><td>Singapore</td></tr><tr><td>Slovakia</td></tr><tr><td>Slovenia</td></tr><tr><td>Solomon Islands</td></tr><tr><td>Somalia</td></tr><tr><td>South Africa</td></tr><tr><td>South Sudan</td></tr><tr><td>Spain</td></tr><tr><td>Sri Lanka</td></tr><tr><td>Sudan</td></tr><tr><td>Suriname</td></tr><tr><td>Sweden</td></tr><tr><td>Switzerland</td></tr><tr><td>Syrian Arab Republic</td></tr><tr><td>Tajikistan</td></tr><tr><td>Thailand</td></tr><tr><td>Timor-Leste</td></tr><tr><td>Togo</td></tr><tr><td>Tonga</td></tr><tr><td>Trinidad and Tobago</td></tr><tr><td>Tunisia</td></tr><tr><td>Türkiye</td></tr><tr><td>Turkmenistan</td></tr><tr><td>Tuvalu</td></tr><tr><td>Uganda</td></tr><tr><td>Ukraine</td></tr><tr><td>United Arab Emirates</td></tr><tr><td>United Kingdom</td></tr><tr><td>United Republic of Tanzania</td></tr><tr><td>United States of America</td></tr><tr><td>Uruguay</td></tr><tr><td>Uzbekistan</td></tr><tr><td>Vanuatu</td></tr><tr><td>Venezuela</td></tr><tr><td>Viet Nam</td></tr><tr><td>Yemen</td></tr><tr><td>Zambia</td></tr><tr><td>Zimbabwe</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

As world leaders prepare to gather in New York for UNGA81, the United Nations is set for another major diplomatic week. But how many countries actually make up the UN and which ones are on the full list?

The United Nations General Assembly is set to bring world leaders together once again as the 81st session intensifies at the UN headquarters in New York. The high-level meetings segment, scheduled for September 22-26, 2026, will see heads of state and government, ministers and senior officials from around the world discuss pressing international challenges. The annual gathering comes as countries seek to strengthen global cooperation, advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promote collective action on peace, dignity, equality and environmental sustainability. UN General Assembly 2026: What to expect The 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, also known as UNGA81, will feature a series of discussions and events focused on international cooperation and practical solutions to global challenges. Two platforms will place a particular emphasis on the Sustainable Development Goals and efforts to accelerate progress towards the 2030 Agenda. The SDG Media Zone, produced by the UN Department of Global Communications, will run from September 21 to 25. The platform will feature interviews, panel discussions and conversations highlighting solutions to challenges linked to sustainable development. Another key platform, the Goals Lounge, will operate from September 14 to 25. Convened by the UN Deputy Secretary-General and hosted by the UN Office for Partnerships, it will feature informal dialogues, in-depth discussions on critical issues and interactive experiences. Events from both platforms will be available to audiences worldwide through live streams on UN WebTV. High-level meetings to begin on September 22 The high-level segment of UNGA81 will begin on September 22 and continue through September 26. The meetings are expected to draw senior representatives from UN member states for discussions on issues affecting international peace, development and global governance. The General Assembly remains the UN's principal deliberative, policymaking and representative body. Its annual session provides a platform for all member states to present their positions, debate international issues and work towards collective decisions. How many countries are members of the United Nations? The United Nations currently has 193 member states. These countries make up the organisation's membership and participate in the General Assembly, where each member state has one vote. The UN also recognises two non-member observer states: the Holy See and the State of Palestine. While they do not have the same voting rights as member states, they can participate in the work of the General Assembly under observer status. The full list of the 193 UN member states is arranged alphabetically below. Full list of 193 United Nations member countries Afghanistan Albania Algeria Andorra Angola Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cabo Verde Cambodia Cameroon Canada Central African Republic Chad Chile China Colombia Comoros Congo Costa Rica Côte d'Ivoire Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czechia Democratic People's Republic of Korea Democratic Republic of the Congo Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini Ethiopia Fiji Finland France Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Grenada Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Honduras Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Mauritania Mauritius Mexico Micronesia (Federated States of) Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria North Macedonia Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Qatar Republic of Korea Republic of Moldova Romania Russian Federation Rwanda Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Sweden Switzerland Syrian Arab Republic Tajikistan Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Türkiye Turkmenistan Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United Republic of Tanzania United States of America Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela Viet Nam Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe

<p>As world leaders prepare to gather in New York for UNGA81, the United Nations is set for another major diplomatic week. But how many countries actually make up the UN and which ones are on the full list?</p>

UN General Assembly 2026: 193 member countries, key events and what to expect

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