Topic: Un Aid

The United States stands alone in vetoing a UN Security Council resolution that called for "humanitarian pauses" to deliver aid to Gaza, citing the resolution's failure to mention Israel's right to self-defense. Russia responds by suggesting the issue be moved to the General Assembly, where no country holds veto power. The hosts characterize the U.S. veto as a technicality that serves as a further "triggering mechanism" for regional anger.

U.S. Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield visited the Turkish-Syrian border to advocate for the renewal of a UN aid program. During her trip, she met with the White Helmets, a group that has been both praised as rescuers and criticized for allegedly staging events. The mission is viewed with suspicion by some who suggest the aid routes may be used for purposes beyond humanitarian relief in opposition-controlled regions.

The UN General Assembly passed a symbolic resolution condemning the violence in Syria and the inaction of the Security Council. The resolution expresses concern over the potential use of chemical weapons and demands humanitarian access to affected populations. The hosts argue that the resolution is "total bullcrap" and merely buys time before the next phase of the crisis.

Angelina Jolie visited Libya as a UN Goodwill Ambassador to highlight the country's humanitarian needs, including security and education. The hosts dismiss the visit as a "disgusting" PR move to justify the NATO intervention and the eventual deployment of ground troops.