Trump at UN Criticizes Push for Palestinian Statehood, Warns Recognition Rewards Hamas

Asghar Imam

United Nation: U.S. President Donald Trump delivered a combative address to the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, reviving his “America First” rhetoric while warning Europe against what he called the twin threats of migration and costly green energy projects.

The roughly hour-long speech mixed self-praise with criticism of the world body, which Trump described as an institution failing to meet its potential. “The U.N. has such tremendous potential. But it’s not even coming close to living up to that potential,” he said.

World leaders listened as Trump defended his foreign policy record and renewed skepticism of multilateralism. Since returning to office, Trump has pulled the U.S. out of the World Health Organization and the UN Human Rights Council, while ordering reviews of American participation in dozens of global organizations.

Warnings to Europe

Trump sharply criticized European migration and energy policies, warning they risk “devastating” economies and cultures. “If you don’t get away from the ‘green energy scam,’ your country is going to fail,” he said, describing migration and energy as a “double-tailed monster” threatening Europe. The remarks drew groans and uneasy laughter from the hall.

Military Strikes and Controversy

The president highlighted U.S. military actions, including airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities in June and recent attacks on alleged Venezuelan drug-smuggling boats. The strikes, which resulted in fatalities, have fueled concerns of extrajudicial killings. Human rights advocates argue that suspects should be interdicted and prosecuted, not targeted with lethal force.

Gaza and Ukraine Loom Large

The wars in Gaza and Ukraine dominated the backdrop to Trump’s speech. He reiterated U.S. opposition to international recognition of Palestinian statehood, calling it a “reward for Hamas terrorists.” France this week became the latest country to endorse Palestinian statehood, with more expected to follow.

On Ukraine, Trump urged European leaders to stop buying Russian oil and threatened sweeping tariffs to pressure Moscow. Despite hosting a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Alaska, Trump’s efforts to broker talks have stalled as Russian attacks intensify.

Pursuit of Peace and Recognition

Trump again suggested he deserved the Nobel Peace Prize, claiming to have ended multiple conflicts across the globe. He cited U.S. mediation efforts in regions spanning from South Asia to Africa, though analysts dispute the extent of his role.

“Everyone says I should get the Nobel Prize,” Trump said. “But for me, the real prize will be the sons and daughters who live to grow up because millions of people are no longer being killed in endless wars.”

UN Leaders Push Back

General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock countered Trump’s criticism, urging member states not to abandon multilateralism. “Sometimes we could’ve done more, but we cannot let this dishearten us,” she said. “If we stop doing the right things, evil will prevail.”

Following his address, Trump met with UN Secretary-General António Guterres and was scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with leaders from Ukraine, Argentina, and the European Union, as well as a group session with Middle Eastern and Asian partners.

Trump will conclude his UN visit by hosting a reception for over 100 world leaders before returning to Washington.