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By Amanda Castro
Associate News Editor
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a combative speech to the United Nations General Assembly on Friday, declaring that Israel “must finish the job” in Gaza. His remarks came amid mounting global criticism and a walkout by dozens of delegates from Arab, African and European nations as he took the stage. The U.S. delegation remained seated, while shouts and scattered applause echoed through the hall.
Newsweek reached out to Netanyahu’s office for comment.
Why It Matters
Netanyahu’s appearance at the U.N. comes amid mounting international condemnation of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, which has resulted in tens of thousands of Palestinian deaths and widespread displacement. With the International Criminal Court pursuing charges against him and growing calls for Palestinian statehood, Netanyahu used his time to defend his government’s actions and reject global pressure for a ceasefire or territorial concessions.
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Netanyahu Delivered U.N. Address During Walkout: What To Know
Netanyahu opened his speech by warning of Iran’s nuclear ambitions and its alliances with regional militias, claiming that Israel’s military operations have dismantled what he called “Iran’s terror axis.” He praised Lebanon’s stated intent to disarm Hezbollah but dismissed it as insufficient, and touted a pending security agreement with Syria’s new government as a sign of shifting regional dynamics.
He rejected the idea of a Palestinian state, calling it a “terror state” and accusing countries that recently recognized Palestinian sovereignty—such as France, Britain, Canada and Australia—of sending the antisemitic message that “Murdering Jews pays off." He condemned their decisions as a “mark of shame.”
Addressing humanitarian concerns, Netanyahu blamed Hamas for widespread hunger in Gaza, alleging theft of U.N. aid. He denied accusations of genocide and war crimes, asserting that Israel issues evacuation orders to protect civilians. “Did the Nazis ask the Jews to kindly leave?” he asked rhetorically. He also said that Israel is doing what it can to "get civilians out of harm’s way."
Netanyahu also spoke directly to Hamas fighters and hostages, saying Israel would end the war if Hamas agreed to demilitarize Gaza—a demand Hamas has publicly rejected. He warned militants to release hostages or face lethal consequences, saying, “If you don’t, Israel will hunt you down.”
He listed militant leaders killed by Israel over the past year, including Yahya Sinwar in Gaza and Hassan Nasrallah in Lebanon, and claimed that Israeli intelligence was broadcasting his speech live to Gazans’ phones. He read aloud the names of 20 hostages believed to still be alive and reiterated that “Israel remembers” the October 7, 2023, attacks.
Why Did U.N. Delegates Walk Out During Benjamin Netanyahu's Speech?
The walkout was a visible rebuke of Netanyahu’s refusal to halt Israel’s offensive in Gaza and his rejection of Palestinian statehood. Delegates from Arab League nations, several African countries and European states exited the hall as Netanyahu approached the podium. The protest followed a week of diplomatic momentum for Palestinian recognition, with countries including France, Canada and the U.K. formally endorsing statehood.
Inside the chamber, Netanyahu’s speech was met with mixed reactions—unintelligible shouts from some corners, applause from others and silence from the U.S. delegation, which has continued to support Israel’s military campaign.
Where Is the U.N. General Assembly?
The U.N. General Assembly convenes annually at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City, drawing leaders and diplomats from all 193 member states. The General Assembly Hall, in the Secretariat Building, serves as the primary venue for speeches, resolutions and global debates. Netanyahu’s speech was part of the high-level General Debate in which world leaders present their views on pressing international issues.
This year’s session has been dominated by the war in Gaza, with multiple countries using their platform to call for an immediate ceasefire, humanitarian aid and recognition of Palestinian sovereignty.
What People Are Saying
Benjamin Netanyahu via Telegram: "Many world leaders have buckled under the pressure. This is not an indictment against Israel, but against leaders who cower in the face of evil. You will not escape the storm of jihad by sacrificing Israel. You have become good."
In his UN speech, Netanyahu said: "I've surrounded Gaza with massive loudspeakers connected to this microphone with the hope that our dear hostages will hear my message. Our brave heroes, this is Prime Minister Netanyahu speaking to you live from the United Nations. We have not forgotten you, not even for a second. The people of Israel are with you. We will not falter and we will not rest until we bring all of you home.
“I want to thank President Trump for his bold and decisive action. President Trump and I promised to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, and we delivered on that promise.
“We lifted a dark cloud that could have claimed millions and millions of lives. But, ladies and gentlemen, we must remain absolutely clear-minded and vigilant.
“We must not allow Iran to rebuild its military nuclear capacity,” adding that U.N. Security Council sanctions on Iran “must be snapped back.”
What Happens Next
As Netanyahu doubles down on his rejection of Palestinian statehood and defends Israel’s military strategy, tensions with international allies may deepen.
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