This week’s U.N. gathering of world leaders occurs amid wars, democratic anxieties, and geopolitical divisions. Dignitaries will advocate for cooperation, but the U.N. struggles with numerous challenges. The Security Council, seen as outdated, is ineffective, highlighted by its inability to address Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the Israel-Gaza conflict. The U.S. has shielded Israel, preventing a cease-fire with Hamas. The situation worsened as Israel’s conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon risked escalating into a full-blown war.