Wed Sep 25 07:58:02 UTC 2024: ## World Leaders Demand End to Violence in Middle East at UNGA
**United Nations, New York** – World leaders gathered at the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Tuesday, condemning the ongoing violence in the Middle East and calling for a ceasefire in the Hamas-Israel conflict. Several leaders directly criticized Israel for its actions in Gaza and Lebanon, describing them as “genocide” and “ethnic cleansing.”
UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned of a “whirlwind” of global challenges, including escalating conflicts, climate change, and the rise of artificial intelligence. He called for global solutions to address these issues, emphasizing the need for diplomacy and cooperation.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, drawing parallels to his country’s struggle against apartheid, condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza and called for an end to the “collective punishment” of Palestinians. He also urged international action to alleviate civilian suffering and support South Africa’s legal action against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan denounced Israel’s actions as “ethnic cleansing” and “genocide,” stressing the need for a protection mechanism for Palestinian civilians. He also expressed his opposition to antisemitism and the targeting of Muslims based on their faith.
King Abdullah II of Jordan echoed calls for a protection mechanism for Palestinians and emphasized the international community’s moral duty to act. He highlighted the world’s failure to address the situation in Gaza and urged action to prevent further suffering.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza and Lebanon, calling for an immediate ceasefire and holding those who have obstructed efforts to end the conflict responsible for the consequences.
Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu described the situation in Gaza as a “travesty of justice” and a “genocide,” calling for accountability for Israel’s actions. He also urged the international community to recognize a sovereign Palestinian state.
US President Joe Biden, while acknowledging the suffering on both sides of the Israeli-Lebanese border, advocated for a diplomatic solution and a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine.
Israel’s UN Ambassador Danny Danon, while expressing a preference for diplomacy in Lebanon, said Israel would use other methods to protect its citizens.
Despite the international condemnation, the UNGA General Debate also focused on other pressing global issues, including sea-level rise, antimicrobial resistance, and nuclear disarmament.
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