World leaders spotlight Middle East issues in UN General Assembly speeches

Middle East issues took center stage in speeches by world leaders at the United Nations General Assembly, with many emphasizing the urgent need for peaceful solutions to the region’s escalating crises, particularly the Palestinian issue and deteriorating humanitarian conditions in Gaza and the West Bank.

French President Emmanuel Macron advocated for a two-state solution for Palestinians and Israelis, telling the General Assembly it was unacceptable to “stand by idly” amid events in Gaza and the West Bank. He said a two-state solution was essential for Israel’s security, and called for renewed commitment to international law and the UN system.

Macron also urged stronger international efforts to counter what he called “the law of the jungle,” reiterated support for Ukraine, and demanded an end to attacks on civilians and energy infrastructure. On artificial intelligence, he proposed developing an advanced open-source model free from domination by major powers.

Jordan’s king: Regional crises are interconnected with global impact

Jordan’s King Abdullah II warned that crises in the region are interconnected, and neglecting them today would have serious future consequences. He noted that the conflict between Iran and Israel had affected people beyond the region, especially in energy and food sectors, and said ongoing conflicts from Lebanon to Yemen and Sudan were deepening humanitarian suffering.

The king stressed the need to confront attempts to erase Palestinian presence and impose new realities in Gaza and the West Bank, criticizing the international community for treating Israeli violations as temporary measures. He added that any threat to Jordan’s security was a threat to national security, and called for genuine international action to address the crises.

Qatar’s emir: Middle East facing dangerous phase, Gaza a stain on humanity

Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani said the Middle East was experiencing one of its most dangerous periods due to years of delayed solutions. He emphasized that diplomacy and dialogue were the only way to resolve disputes, warning that the absence of a regional collective security system encouraged non-peaceful approaches to conflict.

The emir described the situation in Gaza as “a stain on the conscience of humanity,” cautioning that treating displacement as a solution would hinder efforts to improve life for Gaza’s residents. He also said “Israeli aggression” had spilled into neighboring countries, accusing Israel of failing to honor agreements in Lebanon.

Erdogan: Recognition of Palestine essential, rejects state terrorism

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged countries that do not recognize Palestine to reconsider their positions, expressing regret that Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas could not attend. He accused Israel of practicing “state terrorism,” saying Gaza had become “a death camp” and “the largest graveyard for children.”

Erdogan also criticized the United Nations, arguing that the organization was no longer able to fulfill its role in maintaining global peace and security.

Guterres: Preserve two-state solution, reject settlement expansion

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the past decade had seen devastating wars and widespread human rights violations, stressing that political solutions and international cooperation were key to addressing crises.

Guterres warned of widening global divisions, stating that the world’s future depended on strengthening collective action and upholding international law. He called for preserving the two-state solution, rejected settlement expansion and displacement in the West Bank, and urged Israel to hold perpetrators accountable and protect civilians.