BREAKING: Albanese Takes UN Stage, Confronts Trump on Climate Change and Gaza Crisis
- Anthony Albanese delivers passionate speech at UN General Assembly, rebuking Trump’s climate skepticism
- Australia to push for temporary seat on UN Security Council in 2029-30, amidst growing global tensions
- Albanese urges Middle East peace, calls out Iran’s “criminal acts of cowardice” and condemns Hamas
Anthony Albanese has taken a bold stand on the world stage, using his debut speech at the UN General Assembly to confront the climate change skepticism of former US President Donald Trump and urge world leaders to seize the “moment of opportunity” for peace in the Middle East.
In a 19-minute address, Albanese reiterated Australia’s commitment to fighting climate change, outlining a vision to harness clean energy to reach the country’s emission goals. This came just a day after Trump trashed the world’s climate change efforts in his own speech, labelling them a “con job” that was destroying the West.
“Clean energy can carry the world beyond the false choice between economic growth and environmental responsibility,” Albanese declared, as he urged world leaders to work together to address the environmental challenge. “We must ask ourselves: When can those words hold meaning, if not now?”
The Prime Minister also used the speech to recommit Australia to seeking a temporary seat on the UN Security Council in 2029-30, a project started by the previous Coalition government but rarely mentioned since Labor’s return to power.
“The United Nations is much more than an arena for the great powers to veto each other’s ambitions,” Albanese told the assembly. “This is a platform for middle powers and small nations to voice — and achieve — our aspirations.”
Albanese also spoke out against Iran’s alleged antisemitic plots in Australia, calling them “criminal acts of cowardice, aimed at spreading fear.” In a strong rebuke, he stated, “There is no place for antisemitism” and reiterated Australia’s support for Ukraine against Russia’s illegal and immoral invasion.
The Prime Minister’s speech came as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned the UN of the “most destructive arms race in human history” and called for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and the flow of aid.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Energy Minister Chris Bowen, and Communications Minister Anika Wells were part of the Australian delegation in attendance, as Albanese reiterated his government’s support for a two-state solution in the Middle East and urged Hamas to have no role in Gaza’s future.
In a powerful conclusion, Albanese quoted the UN Charter’s peace-oriented vision, saying, “We stand for peace, for justice, and for human rights. We stand for the dignity of every human being.”