Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has attacked the recognition of a Palestinian State by multiple Western countries during a combative speech at the UN General Assembly. Netanyahu labelled the recognition moves a 'mark of shame' that sent the message 'murdering Jews pays off'. Dozens of officials and diplomats staged a walk-out as he took to the podium, leaving large parts of the conference hall empty. Outside, protesters against Israel's military actions in Gaza gathered in Times Square. International pressure has been mounting against Israel following its military actions in Gaza, leading to countries like the UK, France, Canada, and Australia recognizing Palestinian statehood this week.
In his opening remarks, Netanyahu displayed a map labelled The Curse representing Iranian proxy groups across the Middle East and highlighted Israeli military operations against threats from Hezbollah, Hamas, and Iran. He expressed gratitude to US President Donald Trump for the US's involvement in military actions against Iran, contrasting Hamas's attacks with the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
Netanyahu refuted claims by a UN inquiry that Israel had committed genocide in Gaza and denied allegations that Israel was deliberately restricting aid to the region. His speech also included statements aimed at Israeli hostages held in Gaza, asserting that their return was a national priority.
The speech came amid ongoing debates and criticism from Israeli opposition leaders who accused Netanyahu of failing to address diplomatic challenges effectively. After the speech, former President Trump hinted at a potential ceasefire deal for Gaza but provided no further details. The situation remains tense, marked by escalating violence and complex international dynamics.
In his opening remarks, Netanyahu displayed a map labelled The Curse representing Iranian proxy groups across the Middle East and highlighted Israeli military operations against threats from Hezbollah, Hamas, and Iran. He expressed gratitude to US President Donald Trump for the US's involvement in military actions against Iran, contrasting Hamas's attacks with the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
Netanyahu refuted claims by a UN inquiry that Israel had committed genocide in Gaza and denied allegations that Israel was deliberately restricting aid to the region. His speech also included statements aimed at Israeli hostages held in Gaza, asserting that their return was a national priority.
The speech came amid ongoing debates and criticism from Israeli opposition leaders who accused Netanyahu of failing to address diplomatic challenges effectively. After the speech, former President Trump hinted at a potential ceasefire deal for Gaza but provided no further details. The situation remains tense, marked by escalating violence and complex international dynamics.
