(AP) - President Barack Obama is challenging the international community to confront the root causes of turmoil in the Middle East, saying the world faces "a choice between the forces that would drive us apart and the hopes we hold in common."

Obama was speaking to the United Nations General Assembly, saying the United States will not shrink from its role with nations under transition despite the killing of four Americans in Libya, including U.S. Ambassador Chris Stevens, and more than 50 people in violence tied to an anti-Muslim film.

Obama says the video is an "insult not only to Muslims, but to America as well."

The president opened his address Tuesday with a tribute to Stevens, saying the diplomat "saw dignity in the people he met."

To watch President Obama's entire address to the United Nations General Assembly, click on News 12 Extra on Optimum TV channel 612.