Wed Sep 24 22:10:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Finnish President Alexander Stubb addressed the UN General Assembly, condemning Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories since 1967 and calling for an end to it. He emphasized the importance of international law, human rights, and the UN Charter. He also highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, urging for a ceasefire, humanitarian aid access, and hostage release. Stubb further advocated for UN Security Council reforms, including increased representation for underrepresented regions and limiting veto power, to enhance the UN’s effectiveness in maintaining peace. He condemned other breaches of international law, referencing the situation in Ukraine, Sudan and Congo.

**News Article:**

**Finnish President Stubb Demands End to Israeli Occupation, Calls for UN Reform**

**New York, NY** – In a forceful address to the UN General Assembly on Wednesday, Finnish President Alexander Stubb called on Israel to end its occupation of Palestinian territories that began in 1967, asserting that Israel “has no right to violate international law.”

Stubb used his platform to champion the principles of sovereignty, human rights, and the UN Charter, drawing parallels between the situation in Palestine and other global conflicts, including Russia’s aggression in Ukraine and proxy wars in Sudan and Congo.

“Russia has no right to continue its aggression on Ukraine. Israel has no right to violate international law in Palestine,” Stubb stated, emphasizing a commitment to upholding international law globally.

He expressed deep concern over the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, calling for an immediate ceasefire, the provision of safe and unfettered access for humanitarian aid, and the release of all hostages. He insisted that negotiations must ensure the security of both Israelis and Palestinians while respecting the legitimate aspirations of Palestinians for statehood and sovereignty.

“The occupation that began in 1967 must end, and all permanent status issues must be resolved,” Stubb declared, highlighting the urgent need for a lasting solution. He added that the deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza has reached unbearable levels, representing a failure of the international system. His statement comes as UN investigators recently concluded that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, where over 65,000 people have been killed since October 2023.

Beyond the Middle East, Stubb also used his address to advocate for significant reforms to the UN Security Council. He proposed expanding the number of permanent members to include greater representation from Asia, Africa, and Latin America, while also suggesting limitations on the veto power held by individual states.

“The number of permanent members should be increased in the UN Security Council. At least there should be two new seats for Asia, two for Africa and one for Latin America. No single state should have a veto power, and if a member of the Security Council violates the UN Charter, its voting rights should be suspended,” Stubb argued, underscoring the need for a more effective and representative body to maintain international peace and security.

Stubb’s remarks signal a strong stance from Finland on key global issues, prioritizing international law, human rights, and the urgent need for a reformed and more effective United Nations.

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