The second day of the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York focused on critical global issues, including the Israeli War on Palestine and reforms to the UN Security Council. World leaders, particularly from Africa and Latin America, pushed for an immediate ceasefire in Palestine and renewed discussions about the two-state solution as violence in the Middle East continues to escalate. The UN Security Council reform remains a pressing topic, as many nations call for changes that reflect the modern world order.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa was among the most vocal proponents for reform, arguing that the lack of permanent representation from Africa and Latin America is a colonial-era hangover. He stressed that it is essential to have more inclusivity and representation in the Security Council, saying, “It cannot remain an exclusive club of just five nations to the exclusion of the many nations in the world.” This sentiment has been echoed by other nations, including Nigeria, Brazil, and India, who believe their regions deserve permanent seats. These nations argue that the current structure does not reflect the global political landscape, where emerging economies and regions play increasingly significant roles in international affairs.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov also expressed support for expanding the Security Council, advocating for permanent representation from Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Lavrov is expected to address the Security Council and G20 meetings, focusing on Middle Eastern tensions, particularly Israeli attacks on Lebanon, and broader geopolitical concerns.

In addition to the General Assembly sessions, Security Council meetings are scheduled to address the escalating attacks from Israel on Lebanon. These discussions are critical as they aim to prevent a regional spillover of the conflict, which has already caused significant casualties and displacement. The United Nations has voiced concern over the ongoing violence and the potential for further escalation, particularly given the intensity of recent Israeli bombardment on lebanon, killing over 600 civilians in only three days. 

The push for Security Council reform has been a longstanding debate within the UN, and this year’s Assembly may mark a turning point as more nations demand an inclusive and modernized council to address the world’s most pressing challenges effectively.