On Tuesday, September 24th, President Biden delivered his final speech at the United Nations General Assembly. He discussed the stalemate in the Gaza ceasefire and hostage negotiations.
In his opening remarks, Biden recounted over fifty years ago when he first took public office amidst conflicts raging around the world, including the Vietnam War.
Speaking about reconciliation between the United States and Vietnam, Biden commented, “Things can get better. We should never forget that. I have seen this throughout my entire career.”
Biden stated, “Perhaps it’s because of everything I’ve seen and all that we’ve accomplished together over the past few decades, I am filled with hope.” “I know there is a way forward,” he added.
The President vowed to support Ukraine until victory is achieved in the war against Russia.
Biden noted that over the two years since the start of the war, “Our NATO allies and partners, as well as over fifty countries, have stepped up to confront Russia.”
“Most importantly, the Ukrainian people have stood up. I ask the people in this chamber to support them,” the President said.
Biden added, “The good news is that Putin’s war has failed, his core objectives have failed. He wanted to destroy Ukraine, but Ukraine remains free. His aim was to weaken NATO, but NATO is now bigger, stronger, more united than ever, with the addition of Finland and Sweden as new members.”
“But we cannot let our guard down,” he cautioned.
Biden mentioned the Hamas attack on Israel eleven months ago, where thousands of civilians were killed and hundreds were taken hostage. “I have met with the families of those hostages. My heart goes out to them,” Biden said.
Regarding the stalled Gaza ceasefire agreement, Biden stated that it is time for all parties to finalize the terms, bring the hostages home, ensure the safety of Israel and Gaza from Hamas influence, alleviate Gaza’s suffering, and end the war.
President Biden and his senior aides have begun to acknowledge that the prospects for reaching an agreement before his term ends are growing dim. However, the President and his team have not given up, with Biden hoping to put pressure on all sides during his UN speech to reach an agreement.
While external dissatisfaction with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is increasing, US senior officials currently believe that Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar is the main obstacle to reaching an agreement.
Biden also took the opportunity to highlight his government’s efforts in addressing climate change, eradicating world hunger, and harnessing the power of technology.
US officials stated in a briefing before Biden’s speech that during the General Assembly, the President will urge global action to address some of the world’s greatest challenges. This week, he will discuss the climate crisis and the environment. “We will discuss the importance of strengthening humanitarian aid systems; ending the brutal wars in Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan. We will discuss the impact of new technologies like artificial intelligence.”