Benjamin Netanyahu used his address to the United Nations General Assembly to condemn recent recognition of Palestinian statehood and to reaffirm Israel’s commitment to continuing its military campaign in Gaza. The appearance by Benjamin Netanyahu triggered walkouts from dozens of delegates and fueled mass protests across New York City.
Benjamin Netanyahu’s Message at the UN
Benjamin Netanyahu focused his remarks on defending Israel’s actions in Gaza, rejecting accusations of genocide, and criticizing Western nations such as France, the UK, Canada, and Australia for recognizing a Palestinian state. Calling the decisions “sheer madness,” Netanyahu argued they would encourage terrorism against Jews and innocent civilians worldwide.
Walkouts and Divided Reaction
As Benjamin Netanyahu delivered his speech, large portions of the UN hall emptied in protest, with many delegates walking out. While some supporters applauded from the galleries, others booed or sat in silence. Outside, protests in Times Square grew intense, with demonstrators waving Palestinian flags and demanding Netanyahu’s arrest under an International Criminal Court warrant for alleged war crimes. Even some Jewish groups joined the protests, rejecting Netanyahu’s claim to speak on their behalf.
Propaganda Accusations and Maps of Conflict
Benjamin Netanyahu’s address was broadcast across Gaza via loudspeakers and mobile networks, though residents dismissed it as propaganda. He presented a map titled “The Curse” illustrating what he called Iran’s terror network across the Middle East, while praising Israel’s strikes on Iranian-linked targets and U.S. support in attacking Iran’s Fordo nuclear facility.
Benjamin Netanyahu also issued a direct ultimatum to Hamas: lay down arms and release hostages or face continued pursuit. Reading out names of hostages believed to be alive, he vowed Israel had not forgotten them “for even a second.”
Domestic and International Backlash
Inside Israel, opposition leaders criticized Benjamin Netanyahu’s performance. Former Prime Minister Yair Lapid called it “tired and whining,” while Yair Golan of Israel’s Democrats labeled the Gaza loudspeaker broadcast “childish and insane.” The Palestinian Authority dismissed the remarks as “eight major lies” meant to justify war crimes.
Globally, Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech was met with sharp condemnation. Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin described Israel’s actions as “an affront to human dignity.” Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called the Gaza campaign “one of the most heart-wrenching tragedies of our time.” Leaders from Greece and Bangladesh echoed concerns, warning Israel’s actions meet the criteria for genocide, as noted by the International Court of Justice.
Benjamin Netanyahu Denies Genocide Claims
Benjamin Netanyahu firmly rejected accusations that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, blaming Hamas for the humanitarian crisis by stealing aid and using civilians as shields. He insisted Israel provides warnings before strikes to minimize casualties, despite UN reports that 90% of Gaza’s population is displaced and conditions are catastrophic.
Political Context and Future Outlook
The speech came as multiple nations moved to formally recognize a Palestinian state, increasing Israel’s diplomatic isolation. Even as speculation about a possible ceasefire grew—fueled by remarks from former U.S. President Donald Trump—Benjamin Netanyahu insisted that Israel would “never recognize a Palestinian state” and vowed to continue its campaign in Gaza.
Benjamin Netanyahu’s appearance at the UN highlighted the widening gap between Israel and much of the international community, underscoring the intensifying global backlash against its military strategy in Gaza.
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