Question... Rephrase... Repeat

If speeches tested the delegates’ diplomacy, the press conference tested something far more difficult, their ability to answer questions.

France defended its proposal to impose sanctions should Iran fail to improve its human rights record. When asked why sanctions would work now despite years of limited success, the delegate stood by the policy but offered little reassurance that this time would be different.

Egypt also found itself under scrutiny after its position appeared to shift throughout the

committee. Initially perceived as leaning towards Iran before later claiming neutrality, the

delegation was questioned about Egypt’s stance on a ceasefire. The response left many

unconvinced and raised further questions about the country’s position.

Israel faced one of the most direct questions of the afternoon after proposing humanitarian aid for Iran before later redirecting that support towards Israel during the same session. When asked what prompted such a significant policy shift, the delegate’s answer was brief:

“No comment”

The United States also found itself under scrutiny after being asked several follow-up questions by the press. Rather than addressing the question directly, the delegate requested that it be rephrased. Even after it was asked again, the delegate appeared uncertain, prompting one of the volunteers to step in and simplify the question before it could be answered. Despite the additional explanation, the original question remained unanswered. Moreover, multiple delegates admitted that they did not understand the questions. In some cases, delegates abandoned listening altogether and instead asked to read the question directly from the device.

By the end of the session, the conference had evolved into less of a question-and-answer

session and more of a group exercise in question interpretation. While the committee entered the room prepared to defend national policies, many delegates first had to figure out what the question actually was.

Prénjuhl Jenn,

Politico Europe