Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faced a mass walkout during his speech at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Friday. As he vowed to continue Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, delegates reacted with a mix of boos and applause. Netanyahu declared that Israel “must finish the job” against Hamas.
Message to Hostages
Netanyahu said his speech was broadcast through loudspeakers in Gaza so Israeli hostages could hear it. He added that the address was also streamed through cell phones in Gaza after Israel’s intelligence accessed the devices.
He told the hostages, “We have not forgotten you, not even for a second. The people of Israel are with you.” To Hamas, he warned, “Lay down your arms. Let my people go. If you do, you will live. If you don’t, Israel will hunt you down.”
Criticism of Western Countries
Netanyahu criticised countries that recognised Palestinian statehood, saying their actions were “disgraceful” and would “encourage terrorism against Jews and against innocent people everywhere.” He also said, “Western leaders may have buckled under the pressure, but Israel won’t.”
Most countries walk out of Netanyahu’s speech at the UN, leaving him to talk to an empty hall.
— ADAM (@AdameMedia) September 27, 2024
Israel is done.
pic.twitter.com/PdCETLhCFZ
Trump Intervenes on West Bank
US President Donald Trump responded firmly, stating, “I will not allow Israel to annex the West Bank. No, I will not allow it. It’s not going to happen. There’s been enough. It’s time to stop now.”
War Crime Charges and Legal Pressure
Netanyahu currently faces war crime charges from the International Criminal Court alongside former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant. Friday’s speech allowed him to defend Israel’s actions on a major international stage.
Protests Outside the UN
Pro-Palestinian protesters gathered near the heavily secured UN. Nidaa Lafi, organiser with the Palestinian Youth Movement, said, “Israel has chosen a war against every conscientious human being in this world.” Protesters chanted “shame,” with Lafi adding, “This war was always about the complete ethnic cleansing of Palestine and the stealing of Palestinian land.”
Netanyahu framed Israel’s actions as a wider battle against radical Islam. He said, “You know deep down that Israel is fighting your fight.”