The United Nations held a daily press briefing on April 17, 2025, addressing various pressing global issues, including human rights and humanitarian crises.

The meeting began with a light-hearted exchange about culinary excellence, highlighting France and Japan as the countries with the most Michelin-starred restaurants. This discussion, while informal, set a tone of engagement before transitioning to more serious matters.

A significant portion of the briefing focused on the Human Rights Council and the role of special rapporteurs. Questions arose regarding the Secretary-General's support for these independent experts, particularly in light of criticisms surrounding the nomination process. The spokesperson clarified that the Secretary-General supports the human rights architecture established by member states but does not endorse specific rapporteurs. This distinction was emphasized as a point of contention, especially following a member state's withdrawal from the Council.

The briefing also addressed the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. The spokesperson reported that supplies have dwindled significantly, with no food or fuel entering the territory since March 2. The situation is critical, with the United Nations struggling to stretch remaining resources. While an exact timeline for when supplies will run out was not provided, it was made clear that the situation is approaching a breaking point.

In summary, the meeting covered a range of topics, from culinary accolades to serious human rights and humanitarian issues, reflecting the complexity and urgency of the United Nations' ongoing global mission. The discussions underscored the need for continued attention and action on these critical matters.