President Joe Biden’s farewell speech at the United Nations General Assembly shed light on the challenges faced in resolving conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine. While Biden had hoped to announce a cease-fire in Gaza and the release of Israeli hostages, negotiations for such a deal have reached a deadlock. This impasse has led to an escalation of the Israel-Hezbollah conflict, which could potentially draw in Iran and the United States.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with Russia’s aggressive actions, has also reached a critical juncture. Biden’s speechwriters had to adapt their message to emphasize the potential for resolving these conflicts and address pressing global threats such as climate change and artificial intelligence. However, the negative outcomes in Gaza and Ukraine could further undermine the United Nations’ ability to effectively resolve conflicts and jeopardize the security of the United States.
It is important to note that while Biden’s foreign policy flaws are evident, they pale in comparison to those of his predecessor, Donald Trump. Trump’s unwavering support for Israel appeared to be driven more by political considerations than genuine concern for its security. Additionally, his approach to Ukraine would have likely favored Russian President Vladimir Putin.
In the case of Gaza, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s opposition to a deal and constant undermining of negotiation efforts have left Hamas free to reject any potential agreement. The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has now expanded, necessitating a new approach to the Gaza war. A fresh perspective from the United Nations is also crucial.
The United Nations Security Council’s failure to enforce Resolution 1701, which demanded Hezbollah’s withdrawal from the Israeli border, has allowed the Lebanese proxy militia to maintain a threatening presence. This situation has resulted in significant displacement and suffering for Israeli civilians in the northern part of the country. A diplomatic solution, backed by Arab nations and Security Council sanctions against Iran, could potentially force Iran to control its proxies.
Parallel progress on Gaza is essential, as the Arab world, including states with peace treaties with Israel, is deeply concerned about the dire humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip. Violent attacks by Israeli settlers in the West Bank and calls for annexation by far-right cabinet ministers further complicate the prospects for a two-state solution.
To achieve a just peace in Ukraine, a significant shift in Biden’s approach is necessary. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky rightly insists that any peace talks be based on the principles of the U.N. Charter, rather than Putin’s imperial claims. The U.N.’s relevance will be defined by its defense of the principle of non-expansion through force, as enshrined in its charter.
Biden’s speech raised important questions about the application and strengthening of international principles and the consequences of neglecting them. The immediate test lies in whether Biden will support Ukraine’s use of U.S. long-range missiles to target Russian aerodromes and weapons depots. This critical moment will determine whether a dictator can violate the fundamental principle required to maintain global order.