UAE nominates diplomat to lead UN amid criticism over Sudan and Israel policy

The United Arab Emirates on Wednesday formally nominated Lana Nusseibeh, its former ambassador to the United Nations, to succeed Antonio Guterres as UN secretary-general, adding a new contender to a deadlocked race. Her candidacy has drawn immediate criticism due to the UAE's controversial foreign policy, in particular its support for parties accused of genocide. They include the Sudanese Rapid Support Forces paramilitary group and Israel , which is carrying out a genocide of Palestinians in Gaza. No candidate has emerged as a favourite for the Trump administration, so the UAE's close ties with Washington and the other permanent members could open a path for Nusseibeh.