Israel's Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, faced a significant backlash at the United Nations General Assembly on Friday. As he began his speech, scores of delegates from various nations exited the room, leaving behind a visibly sparse audience. This mass departure was widely interpreted as a protest against Israel's policies towards the Palestinian population and its military operations in Gaza.
During his address, Netanyahu defended Israel's actions in the Gaza Strip, emphasizing the necessity for Israel to "finish the job" as swiftly as possible. He claimed that the last Hamas fighters remain entrenched in Gaza, continuing to pose a threat. In a direct message to the Palestinian group, he warned that hostages would "live" if freed, but Israel would relentlessly pursue them otherwise.
Netanyahu also voiced strong criticism towards nations that have recently recognized the Palestinian State, including France, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada. He accused these countries of "rewarding the most anti-Semitic actors in the world." He categorically rejected any prospect of acknowledging a Palestinian state, describing it as a "madness that we will not commit." In his view, such a move would be tantamount to "national suicide" for Israel and would reward those who, according to him, backed the October 7, 2023 attacks.
Netanyahu declared unequivocally, "My stance against a Palestinian state is also that of the Israeli people," effectively closing the door on any negotiated resolution to the conflict. His speech comes amid increasing global pressure on the Israeli government following months of military offensives and allegations of human rights violations in Gaza.
Key Questions About Netanyahu's UN Speech and Its Implications
Why did leaders walk out during Netanyahu's speech?
Many leaders left as a form of protest against Israel's policies towards Palestinians and its military actions in Gaza.
What was Netanyahu's response to countries recognizing Palestine?
Netanyahu criticized these countries, accusing them of rewarding anti-Semitic actors and firmly rejected the recognition of a Palestinian state.
What stance did Netanyahu express regarding a Palestinian state?
Netanyahu declared that acknowledging a Palestinian state would be a "national suicide" for Israel and stood firmly against it.