World cannot bear for Lebanon to become another Gaza, UN’s Guterres warns

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres sounded the alarm during the opening speech of the 79th United Nations General Assembly, stating, “Lebanon, Israel, and the world cannot bear for Lebanon to become another Gaza.”

Guterres pointed out that the world is undergoing significant and unprecedented changes, saying: “The planet is heating up, wars with unpredictable ends are raging, and nuclear threats cast a dark shadow.”

He emphasized that the ongoing global challenges are without precedent and require urgent solutions, but geopolitical divisions continue to deepen.

Global challenges on brink

“The world is moving towards a situation we dare not even contemplate: a ticking time bomb with the potential to engulf the entire globe,” warned Guterres, reflecting on the escalating tensions across the planet.

He further stressed that the current global state is unsustainable and that while solutions are possible, they require effective international problem-solving mechanisms.

Impunity across the world

Guterres also addressed the increasing level of impunity, which, in his view, is prevalent globally. “Impunity is everywhere – in the Middle East, at the heart of Europe, in the Horn of Africa – and beyond,” he said.

The Secretary-General criticized countries that, according to him, believe they can evade consequences while breaching international law, the U.N. Charter, and international courts.

“Some nations think they’ve found a way to escape any accountability, occupying other countries, destroying entire societies, and disregarding the well-being of their own citizens,” he stated.

Gaza crisis ‘never-ending nightmare’

Regarding the ongoing situation in Gaza, Guterres described it as a “never-ending nightmare,” posing a threat to engulf the entire region. He pointed out that the situation in Lebanon could spiral out of control, underscoring: “Lebanon, Israel, and the global community cannot afford for Lebanon to become another Gaza.”

He further highlighted the precarious state Lebanon is currently in, warning that the situation is “alarming.”

While condemning the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, he stressed, “Nothing can justify it.” However, he also noted that the collective punishment of the Palestinian people cannot be justified either.

Guterres reminded the assembly that the death toll and destruction in Gaza had reached unprecedented levels, with over 200 U.N. staff members killed.

The Secretary-General called for the international community to urgently work towards a cease-fire, the release of hostages, and a two-state solution.

He pressed the issue further by questioning those who hinder progress by expanding settlements and escalating violence: “What is the alternative? How can the world accept a one-state solution that destroys the freedom, rights, and dignity of countless Palestinians?”

His remarks were met with applause in the General Assembly hall.

Uncertain future

Reflecting on the current geopolitical landscape, Guterres remarked, “We are in limbo,” and warned that more nations are exploiting divisions and operating without accountability.

He also pointed to the outdated global institutions, recalling that the U.N. Security Council was designed by the victors of World War II when much of Africa was still under colonial rule.

He argued reforms are urgently needed, particularly noting the absence of permanent African representation on the Security Council.

Additionally, Guterres stressed that the global financial architecture must change.

“Without reform, fragmentation is inevitable. The legitimacy, credibility, and impact of global institutions will continue to diminish,” he cautioned.

Climate crisis looms

Turning to the climate crisis, Guterres warned, “We are facing climate collapse,” and said that while every country will be affected, the poorest will suffer the most. He stressed polluters must be held accountable: “Those who pollute must pay.”

Role of artificial intelligence

Finally, Guterres highlighted the existential threat posed by emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), warning that AI will reshape everything from education to politics.

He urged international cooperation to manage AI responsibly, warning that failure to act could deepen divisions.