Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a speech at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on Friday, but most diplomats walked out as he took the stage, leaving the hall nearly empty.
The walkout comes amid allegations of “genocide” against Netanyahu and the IDF in Israel’s offensive in Gaza. Since October 7, 2023, over 60,000 Palestinians have reportedly died in Israeli attacks following Hamas militants’ cross-border assault, which killed more than 1,200 Israelis and took hundreds hostage.
Multiple ceasefire attempts and hostage negotiations collapsed after the IDF attacked Qatar earlier this month while pursuing Hamas leadership.
What Benjamin Netanyahu Said
Netanyahu recalled the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas: “Much of the world no longer remembers October 7. But we remember.”
During his UNGA address, he sharply criticized global leaders, accusing them of “appeasing evil rather than supporting Israel.”
He added: “Many leaders who condemn Israel in public, thank us behind closed doors.”
Regarding recognition of a Palestinian state, Netanyahu warned: “This week’s decisions send the message that murdering Jews pays off and will encourage terrorism against Jews, innocent people everywhere.”
He issued a stern message to Western leaders: “Israel will not allow you to shove a terror state down our throats.”
Context of the Gaza Conflict
The speech occurs amid escalating tensions in Gaza following Hamas’s October 2023 attack and Israel’s subsequent military operations. Despite international mediation efforts, peace talks have largely stalled, and global criticism of Israel’s offensive continues.
