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WASHINGTON: Two separate, but closely watched developments at the United Nations, have drawn attention to the institution’s internal procedures and shifting diplomatic dynamics, one involving the presidency of the General Assembly and the other the rotating leadership of the Security Council.
Palestinian Ambassador Riyad Mansour has withdrawn his candidacy for the presidency of the next session of the UN General Assembly, diplomatic sources confirmed.
While some observers suggested that US and Israeli pressure may have played a role in the decision, diplomats familiar with internal deliberations said the decisive factor was procedural.
Under the UN’s established system of regional rotation, the presidency of the General Assembly alternates annually among five regional groups. The upcoming session falls to the Asia-Pacific Group.
