A Divisive UN Speech
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a fiery address at the UN General Assembly, criticizing Western nations—including the UK, France, Canada, and Australia—for recognizing a Palestinian state. He labeled the recognition a “mark of shame” and claimed it sent a dangerous message that “murdering Jews pays off.”
Walk-Out and Protests
As Netanyahu took the podium, dozens of diplomats walked out, leaving large sections of the hall empty. Outside, protesters rallied in New York’s Times Square against Israel’s ongoing military actions in Gaza.
Linking Global Threats
Netanyahu displayed a map showing Iranian-backed groups across the Middle East, calling them “The Curse.” He compared Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel to the 9/11 attacks on the U.S., arguing that both nations were fighting the same enemies. He also praised U.S. support, particularly American airstrikes on Iran’s Fordo nuclear site in June.
Rejecting Genocide Claims
The prime minister dismissed a UN inquiry accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza, calling the charge “baseless.” He also denied UN reports that Israel is deliberately blocking humanitarian aid, despite international agencies warning of famine in Gaza City.
Broadcast to Gaza and Hostages
In a controversial move, Netanyahu’s office arranged loudspeakers near the Gaza border to broadcast his speech directly into the territory. He also claimed Israeli intelligence hacked into Gaza phones to deliver his message to hostages: “We will not rest until we bring all of you home.”
Backlash in Israel
Opposition leaders criticized the speech harshly. Yair Lapid described Netanyahu as “weary and whining,” while Yair Golan called the loudspeaker stunt “childish and insane propaganda.” Critics argued that the address highlighted victimhood rather than solutions.
The Bigger Picture
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, speaking a day earlier, said he was ready to work with global leaders on a peace plan. Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump hinted that “a deal on Gaza” might be near, fueling speculation about a possible ceasefire.