Lana Nusseibeh, a diplomat from the United Arab Emirates, is the newest contender for United Nations secretary-general. She brings Palestinian roots and defense of UAE-Israel relations to her candidacy to lead the world body. But she faces criticism over her country's alleged support for paramilitary fighters in Sudan's civil war, which the UAE denies. Any leader succeeding Antonio Guterres in January would inherit a U.N. weakened by harsh criticism and steep funding cuts by the Trump administration.  Nusseibeh aims to rebuild trust in the U.N. and promote “quiet diplomacy.” She has been outspoken on issues like aid for Gaza and women's roles internationally.