In his final address as president to the United Nations General Assembly, Joe Biden urged nations to unite in the face of escalating conflicts in the Middle East, the ongoing war in Ukraine, and rising concerns about China’s influence.
"I truly believe we’re at another inflection point in world history. The choices we make today will determine our future," Biden stated. He highlighted that Russian President Vladimir Putin has "failed" in his attempts to undermine Ukraine and NATO. "But Ukraine is free," he asserted. "NATO is bigger, stronger, and more united than ever before, with two new members: Finland and Sweden."
The president emphasized the need for continued support for Ukraine amid Russian aggression, stressing that the world must not waver in its commitment to protecting the nation.
Biden also addressed the brutal Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, which resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people, including horrific acts of sexual violence and hostage-taking. He acknowledged the suffering of innocent civilians in Gaza as Israel retaliates against Hamas, describing their plight as “hell.”
The U.S. has proposed a ceasefire, backed by the U.N. Security Council, which he urged both parties to finalize. "A diplomatic solution is still possible. In fact, it remains the only path to lasting security," he said, while also condemning violence against innocent Palestinians in the West Bank and reiterating the importance of a two-state solution.
Moreover, Biden noted that Gaza is "not the only conflict that deserves outrage," calling attention to the civil war in Sudan, where millions face famine. He urged the international community to cease arming warring generals, insisting that nations must come together to demand an end to the conflict.
* NBC contributed to this article.
