War, power games and impunity. I watched the farce that is the UN general assembly: what a tragedy, what a mess | Nesrine Malik

Ukraine, Iran, Palestine and Sudan: a myriad of problems await the United Nations General Assembly, yet it consistently fails to address them effectively. Close inspection reveals a stagnant and declining organization, struggling to maintain international law and uphold humanitarian standards amidst mounting crises. This year's assembly epitomized the instability and decline of global governance and a humanitarian order that has become increasingly fragile.

The proceedings were far from a constructive gathering aimed at resolving global conflicts. Instead, they served as a spectacle of boisterousness, discontent, and internal strife. The event served as a stark reminder for historians to document four monumental instabilities that remain unresolved and unaddressed - Ukraine, Iran, Palestine, and Sudan.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy presented a harrowing account of five years of relentless Russian aggression. His speech detailed the devastating loss of life on both sides, the porous nature of sanctions imposed on Russia, and the futility of the ongoing conflict. Donald Trump, in a moment reminiscent of his previous statements, threatened to "annihilate" Iran if it did not come to an agreement on a deal.

However, this had become a tired promise, repeated so often that its mere repetition highlighted its lack of substance.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian retorted in his own speech, accusing the United States of terrorism and aggression towards Iran. He vowed to defend Iran with all his strength. In the midst of these impassioned debates, the sole representative from the United States delegation abruptly departed the room, leaving a void in the proceedings.