In a development highlighting polarisation in the UN Security Council, the monthly programme of work for the U.S. Presidency of the powerful UN organ could not be adopted after Russia and China raised objections concerning Iran.
The United States, a veto-wielding permanent member, assumed the Presidency of the 15-nation UN Security Council for the month of March. As is customary, a monthly programme of work that outlines the Council’s anticipated meetings and events for the month is adopted by the UN body at the commencement of the Presidency.
Iran-Israel war LIVE
The Council President then briefs the media in the UN headquarters on the UNSC programme of work and agenda for the month.
However, the U.S.-drafted programme of work for its monthly presidency of the Council could not be adopted on Monday (March 2, 2026) after the other veto-wielding permanent members Russia and China raised objections pertaining to the 1737 Sanctions Committee concerning Iran.
