The new Israeli ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, has issued a stern warning to the international body amidst escalating tensions with Hezbollah and concerns over Iran's potential nuclear capabilities.
Ambassador Danon highlighted Security Council Resolution 1701, emphasizing the failure to prevent Hezbollah's military presence in southern Lebanon since 2006, leading to the region becoming a hub for terrorism with a significant arsenal of rockets.
Danon stressed the need for action against various groups in the Middle East, including Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and the Houthis in Yemen, by addressing the root cause – Iran.
He urged Western democracies to exert pressure on Iran to prevent it from acquiring nuclear weapons, citing the dangers posed by Iran's aggressive actions, such as the recent projectile attacks on Israel.
Replacing Gilad Erdan, Danon expressed a more optimistic view on the U.N.'s potential for reform, calling on the U.S. to lead efforts in demanding accountability and focusing on promoting security and peace rather than allowing the U.N. to be a platform for hate and incitement.
He criticized the U.N.'s failure to condemn attacks on Israel, highlighting the need for reform to ensure the organization's effectiveness and impartiality.
With the U.S. contributing a significant portion of the U.N.'s budget, Danon emphasized the importance of holding the organization accountable and redirecting its focus towards its core objectives.
Overall, Danon's message underscores the urgent need for international cooperation and reform within the U.N. to address escalating conflicts and prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons in the region.