- September 21, 2025
- 11:48 am
- World News
This week marks the start of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly — the most important diplomatic event on the international calendar.
Over six days, heads of state will speak from a podium framed by green marble, while conferences and summits will simultaneously take place to shape the global agenda. This year’s theme, “Better Together: 80 Years and Beyond for Peace, Development, and Human Rights,” is relevant against the backdrop of significant crises, including conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, rising tensions around Iran, and criticism of the UN’s effectiveness. Secretary-General António Guterres noted that “the world is in unprecedented turbulent waters,” unseen for decades.
Key Events of the General Assembly
During the general debate, special attention will be drawn to the “Two-State Conference,” which will take place on Monday under the joint chairmanship of France and Saudi Arabia. This event is a continuation of a meeting held in July and aims to establish an “irreversible” path to an independent Palestinian state.
New Charter
The “New York Declaration,” prepared in July and approved by 142 countries, will propose a temporary administrative mechanism for Gaza, the reconstruction of the Strip, and steps toward a permanent solution. Among the signatories are the UK and Canada, which are expected to officially recognize the Palestinian state during the conference. Israel and the US strongly oppose this initiative, insisting on its unilateral nature and detachment from realities, calling it “rewards for Hamas.”
Brazil’s First Word
Traditionally, the General Debate will begin with Brazil’s speech, immediately followed by President Trump’s address, which is highly anticipated. This will be his first speech at the General Assembly since returning to the White House this year, and he plans to discuss his foreign policy achievements, including what he claims is “ending seven wars,” as well as focusing on the conflict with Iran, which suffered losses in the form of bombers destroying three of its main nuclear facilities.
Trump’s Position
In addition, Trump will continue to punish aid and cut funding for agencies like UNRWA and UNESCO, maintaining a tough stance toward UN institutions. He will be accompanied by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and newly appointed UN Ambassador Mike Waltz.
Debut of Syria’s President
On Wednesday, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa will address the General Assembly with a debut speech following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime late last year. His speech will aim to gain international legitimacy as he calls for “patience and support” to stabilize Syria and rebuild its shattered economy.
Seeking Recognition
The fact that visas were granted to the delegation and the speech was scheduled is seen as a primary sign of recognition, despite ongoing violence and suspicions in the region. Reports indicate progress in security between Damascus and Jerusalem, which could pave the way for a historic US-backed security agreement. However, there are currently no clear signals that a deal will be finalized during the General Assembly.
Abbas’s Address
On Thursday, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas will address the General Assembly with a pre-recorded message after the Trump administration denied visas to his senior officials. The General Assembly voted to allow him to speak remotely. Abbas is expected to thank countries that have already recognized the Palestinian state, outline his position, and condemn Israel for the war and other actions. His appearance, coinciding with the France and Saudi Arabia conference, is intended to increase international pressure on Israel and the US.
Netanyahu’s Address
On Friday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will deliver his 14th address to the General Assembly, amid increasing pressure on Israel: the UN Commission of Inquiry accused Israel of “genocide” in Gaza, which is punishable by the International Court.
Netanyahu’s Response
Simultaneously with Netanyahu’s address, he is expected to reject these accusations, remind of the hostages still held by Hamas, and call on countries to support Israel. For him, this will be a moment of personal and political realization.
Macron’s Speech
On the same day, French President Emmanuel Macron will speak, presenting the “Two-State Conference” as a historic victory and calling for the implementation of the “New York Declaration.” France’s first official recognition of the Palestinian state is expected as the final touch of diplomatic effort.
Consequences for Relations with Israel
Such a step could lead to a sharp confrontation with Israel and the US, while Macron hopes to establish France as a leading force in restoring trust in the international system, despite a sharp decline in domestic support.
Throughout the week, New York will become the center of intense diplomacy, high-stakes decisions, and a renewed attempt to restore the two-state solution. For Israel, this is a unique moment of unprecedented global pressure, offset only by the support of the US president. As characterized by the UN Secretary-General: “This is the World Cup of diplomacy.” The outcome remains uncertain.