At the Munich Security Conference on Saturday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered a striking critique of the United Nations, particularly highlighting its shortcomings in addressing global conflicts. His speech resonated with the audience, as he pinpointed the UN’s inability to effectively tackle critical international issues, notably its role in the Israeli hostage crisis in Gaza.

Rubio did not hold back, stating, “We cannot ignore that today, on the most pressing matters before us, [the UN] has no answers and has played virtually no role.” His remarks underscored a growing sentiment of frustration with the UN’s perceived inaction in significant global crises.

The Secretary of State contrasted the UN’s inaction with the decisive steps taken by the United States, asserting, “It could not solve the war in Gaza. Instead, it was American leadership that freed captives from barbarians and brought about a fragile truce.” His words highlighted the pivotal role the U.S. played in resolving a crisis that had gripped the world’s attention.

The issue of hostages was particularly poignant, with the last of the 251 Israelis kidnapped during the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas being released only a few weeks ago. This tragic episode underscored the urgency and complexity of the situation that the UN struggled to address effectively.

Moreover, the return of the remains of Israel Defense Force Sgt. Ran Gvili on January 26, 2026, more than three years after his abduction, served as a grim reminder of the protracted nature of these conflicts and the continuing challenges faced by those working towards peace and resolution.

The remains of Israel Defense Force Sgt. Ran Gvili were returned to the Jewish state on Jan. 26, 2026, more than three years after he was abducted.

Rubio also called out the UN for failing to solve several other global crises which he said had fallen to the Trump administration to take on.

“[The UN] had not solved the war in Ukraine. It took American leadership and partnership with many of the countries here today just to bring the two sides to the table in search of a still-elusive peace,” Rubio said.

He then called out the UN for being unable to halt the nuclear program of Iran, stating, “That required 14 bombs dropped with precision from American B-2 bombers.”

“And it was unable to address the threat to our security from a narcoterrorist dictator in Venezuela,” Rubio said, adding, “Instead, it took American Special Forces to bring this fugitive to justice.”

Despite the critiques, Rubio stated the United Nations “still has tremendous potential to be a tool for good in the world.”