In brief
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized the recognition of a Palestinian state during his speech at the UN General Assembly, labeling it a 'mark of shame.' His remarks led to a significant walk-out by diplomats, as protests erupted in support of Gaza outsiders. Netanyahu reiterated Israel's opposition to Palestinian statehood and claimed the bulk of Israelis support this stance, while also rejecting allegations of genocide by a UN commission. The speech, laden with geopolitical context, touched upon regional conflicts and highlighted Israel's military strategy against various groups linked to Iran.
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 that '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 war in Gaza gathered in Times Square.
Israel has come under huge international pressure over its military action in Gaza, culminating in the UK, France, Canada, Australia, and other countries recognizing a Palestinian state this week.
In his opening remarks, Netanyahu displayed a map labelled 'The Curse' showing Iranian proxy groups across the Middle East and highlighted Israeli military operations against groups such as Hezbollah and Hamas.
He contrasted Hamas's recent attack on Israel with 9/11, claiming both nations face common enemies.
Netanyahu insisted that Israel would not allow a Palestinian state to exist and rejected claims of genocide by UN officials, calling such accusations baseless.
He also stated that Israeli intelligence had hacked phones in Gaza for broadcasting his speech, although reports suggested this was not possible due to technical conditions.
This speech sparked criticism within Israel, with leaders from opposition parties decrying the address as ineffective and detached from the realities on the ground.
Amid rising death tolls and civilian suffering in Gaza, the speech marks a significant moment in an ongoing conflict and escalates tensions over the possibility of peace negotiations.
