By Muhammad Ayub
This year’s general debate began with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva addressing the UN’s membership.
Over the course of six days, representatives from 190 Member States took to the iconic green marble podium to discuss the critical challenges facing the international community and the necessity for global unity to address them. Three Observers also delivered speeches.
As these leaders spoke about worldwide issues, Philémon Yang, President of the General Assembly, concluded the session with a poignant reminder of the ongoing conflicts and the urgent need for peace.
He pointed out that the conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon, Sudan, and Ukraine are unfortunately just a few examples.
“In recent days, we have witnessed a dramatic escalation of violence between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, which threatens to ignite war across the entire Middle East,” he said.
“This must stop, and it must stop immediately. The world cannot allow an all-out war to unfold in this unstable region,” he emphasized, urging all parties—including Israel, Hamas, and Hezbollah—to urgently agree to a ceasefire.
He also called for the immediate and safe release of all remaining hostages.
