Things got heated at the United Nations General Assembly in New York when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took the stage. His appearance came after he faced harsh criticism as a war criminal from various world leaders throughout the assembly. Notably, many delegates couldn’t stick around and walked out as he started to speak.
Strong Words from Netanyahu
Before addressing the UN, Netanyahu declared, “We’re not finished yet,” emphasizing the need to tackle Hamas, suggesting that remnants are still hiding in Gaza and threatening future violence.
In an unusual move, just hours ahead of his speech, Netanyahu’s office announced that his address would be pumped through speakers positioned to broadcast into Gaza. He expressed hope that Israeli hostages might hear his words.
In both Hebrew and English, he addressed the hostages: “This is Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaching out to you live from the UN. You are not forgotten. The nation of Israel stands with you. We will ensure your return as swiftly as possible.”
Additionally, he revealed that the same speech was being streamed on cellphones in Gaza. He then called on Hamas leaders, urging: “Lay down your arms and release our hostages, all 48 of them. If you surrender, you will live; if not, we will hunt you down!”
Israel’s Growing Isolation
Even before Netanyahu set foot in New York, it seemed the UN was not on his side. Qatar’s Emir denounced Israel as a “rogue government” and described recent Israeli actions as hostile. Things weren’t looking good for Netanyahu’s position at the gathering.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres lamented the severe repercussions of the conflict in Gaza, emphasizing that while nothing justified Hamas’ terror, there’s also no justification for punishing the Palestinian people. He reiterated the need for Israel to adhere to measures aimed at preventing conflict escalation.
Netanyahu’s remarks at the UN included sharp critiques aimed at countries supporting Palestinian statehood—a stance met with cool receptions. The Israeli prime minister insisted that approving such support was a severe mistake.
Controversial Travel Plans
Interestingly, reports indicated that Netanyahu’s flight to New York was deliberately longer, avoiding certain airspaces possibly due to an ICC arrest warrant issued for him. Neither he nor his administration have commented on this altered route.
Briefing with Trump
Post-UN assembly, Netanyahu is scheduled to meet President Trump in Washington—marking their fourth face-to-face encounter since Trump took office again. This discussion might have heavier implications for Israel and the region compared to Netanyahu’s UN address, especially regarding the US-Israel dynamic related to Palestinian state recognition efforts.
While Trump has expressed a consistent stance against Israel’s expansion in the West Bank, both leaders are expected to pledge towards finding potential solutions as pressure mounts for releasing hostages from Gaza.
During this tense backdrop, both Netanyahu and Trump addressed similar resolutions to address the conflicts, emphasizing urgency amid rising uncertainties.
