Tag: Netanyahu Faces Global Backlash at UN

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a defiant speech at the United Nations General Assembly on Friday, defending Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza and criticizing Western nations for recognizing a Palestinian state. His remarks came as protests erupted outside the UN headquarters in New York and many delegates walked out of the chamber in protest as he approached the podium. Netanyahu said Israel must “finish the job” in Gaza, referencing the 2023 Hamas-led attacks that killed over 1,100 people. He warned that recent recognitions of Palestinian statehood by some Western countries would, in his words, encourage terrorism and bring shame on those governments. The Israeli leader, currently facing an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court for alleged war crimes, addressed a near-empty hall. Meanwhile, thousands demonstrated outside, demanding an end to the war, which has killed more than 65,000 Palestinians according to local authorities in Gaza. During his speech, Netanyahu also addressed Israeli captives held in Gaza, promising their families that the government had not forgotten them. He said Israel would not stop its campaign until all hostages are returned and Hamas is defeated. He claimed his message was being transmitted directly into Gaza through loudspeakers and cellphones, warning Hamas fighters to surrender or die. Critics, including members of Israel’s own parliament, argue that Netanyahu’s refusal to accept a ceasefire has prolonged the conflict and prevented hostage negotiations. Netanyahu also presented what he called a “seven-front war” Israel is fighting across the region, including Gaza, Iran, Syria, Yemen, and Lebanon. He used a map titled “The Curse” to illustrate what he sees as Israel’s ongoing regional threats. He strongly criticized Western countries that have recognized Palestinian statehood, though he spared the United States, which remains Israel’s closest ally and top military supporter. Netanyahu claimed that behind closed doors, Western leaders had thanked him for Israel’s role in fighting terrorism. Throughout the speech, members of the US delegation applauded, but other delegations remained silent or were absent. Netanyahu also denied accusations of genocide in Gaza, arguing that Israel’s efforts to warn civilians before attacks prove otherwise. He also denied that Israel is responsible for the widespread famine reported in Gaza, blaming Hamas for diverting humanitarian aid. However, a report from USAID earlier this year found no evidence of Hamas systematically stealing or selling US-provided aid. Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized Netanyahu’s speech as tired and unproductive, noting that it failed to offer a strategy for ending the war or freeing the hostages. Gaza’s government also rejected the speech, saying it was filled with falsehoods aimed at justifying war crimes.