NEW YORK: President Joe Biden used his final address before world leaders at the United Nations General Assembly to call for peace in Lebanon and an end to the conflict in Gaza — two prospects that analysts say are unlikely to happen soon.
“A full-scale war is not in anyone’s interest,” Biden said, referring to the escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. He said a diplomatic solution is still possible.
As the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza nears the one-year mark, Biden urged the parties to “finalize the terms” of a cease-fire and hostage deal that has been endorsed by the U.N. Security Council.
And on Ukraine’s efforts to fight off Russia’s invasion, Biden said, “We cannot grow weary. We cannot look away, and we will not let up on our support for Ukraine, not until Ukraine wins with a just and durable peace.”
But it was this line — about his decision not to seek reelection — that garnered the most applause from the packed audience, which included leaders from the body’s 193 member states.
“My fellow leaders, let us never forget: some things are more important than staying in power,” he said. “It’s your people.”
Yet several delegations did not react during Biden’s 25-minute address — notably, the delegations from China and from Russia, who did not clap for any of his remarks.
(VOA)
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