"Each year in September, the bustling east side of Midtown Manhattan becomes even busier as it hosts the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). New York briefly transforms into the centre of international politics as presidents, prime ministers and royals descend on the UN headquarters to speak at the opening debate for the latest UNGA session. This year, the summit arrives amid heightened security concerns in the United States following the assassination of right-wing commentator Charlie Kirk."
"Traffic has been blocked in the eight city blocks flanking the UN complex, establishing a restricted zone that can only be accessed by authorised personnel. Hundreds if not thousands of heavily armed local and federal law enforcement agents surround the area, ensuring that no one gets near the summit without prior approval. Armed police guard a security checkpoint near the UN headquarters in New York City on September 23, 2025 [Ali Harb/Al Jazeera]"
"Due to the restrictions, many local residents told Al Jazeera they feel a mix of apathy and annoyance towards the annual gathering, which has been informally dubbed the World Cup of Politics. Ugur Dikici, who operates a fruit stand across from the UN, said it may seem cool to have leaders from across the world come to your neighbourhood. But when you're stuck in traffic for two hours, it's not fun, he told Al Jazeera."
The United Nations General Assembly turns Midtown Manhattan into a focal point for global leaders and heightened security each September. The summit arrives amid elevated security concerns in the United States after the assassination of a right-wing commentator and during widespread outrage over violence in Gaza. Eight city blocks around the UN are blocked off and designated as restricted zones accessible only to authorised personnel. Hundreds or thousands of heavily armed local and federal law enforcement agents enforce checkpoints and perimeter security. Many local residents express apathy and annoyance at the disruptions, with some experiencing multi-hour traffic delays.
Read at www.aljazeera.com
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