Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a fiery address at the United Nations General Assembly, vowing to “finish the job” in Gaza and condemning international recognition of a Palestinian state as “insane.” The speech was met with a mass walkout by dozens of diplomats and sparked large protests outside the UN in New York.
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Walkouts Mark Contentious Speech
More than 100 diplomats from over 50 countries walked out of the assembly hall as Netanyahu began speaking. Reports noted that the U.S. and U.K. delegations remained, though staffed largely by junior officials. The auditorium, which holds 1,800 seats, was largely empty throughout his remarks.
Netanyahu Rejects Two-State Solution
Netanyahu fiercely rejected the recent recognition of a Palestinian state by the UK, France, Canada, Australia, and others, calling the move “madness” and a threat to global security. He argued:
“Giving the Palestinians a state one mile from Jerusalem after October 7 is like giving al-Qaeda a state one mile from New York City after September 11.”
Ongoing Gaza Offensive
Hours before Netanyahu spoke, Gaza officials reported more than 22 people killed in Israeli strikes, while Al Jazeera reported up to 47 Palestinian deaths since dawn, including civilians in a tent camp. Netanyahu insisted Israel would press on with its Gaza City offensive, describing it as essential to prevent future attacks.
He denied allegations of genocide, claiming Israel urges civilians to evacuate and highlighting intelligence-sharing with other nations.
Trump and Annexation Debate
Former U.S. President Donald Trump said he would block Netanyahu from annexing West Bank territories despite growing right-wing pressure in Israel. Netanyahu avoided addressing annexation directly, saying he would respond after his meeting with Trump at the White House.
Protests and Global Reactions
Thousands of demonstrators filled New York streets, with rallies in Times Square denouncing Netanyahu’s policies. Outside his hotel, police arrested several pro-Palestinian protesters. Meanwhile, New Zealand stated it would not yet recognize Palestine, citing risks of further hardening positions.
Ultimatum to Hamas
Netanyahu ended his speech with a warning to Hamas leaders:
“Lay down your arms. Free the hostages. If you do, you will live. If you don’t, Israel will hunt you down.”
He also employed props, including a QR code linking to footage of the October 7 Hamas attacks, and claimed his remarks were broadcast across Gaza—though reporters disputed this.
Conclusion
Netanyahu’s UN speech underscored Israel’s uncompromising stance on Gaza and rejection of Palestinian statehood, even as global recognition for Palestine grows. The mass walkout and protests highlight deepening divisions in the international community, signaling that the Israel-Palestine conflict remains a central flashpoint on the world stage.