Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu firmly denied allegations of genocide in Gaza during his address to the United Nations General Assembly. He defended Israel’s military actions, underscoring the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack that resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people as justification for Israel’s response. Netanyahu described accusations against Israel as false and emphasized the country’s right to defend itself.
In his speech, Netanyahu also addressed Israel’s military actions against Iran, describing these decisions as straightforward and necessary for national security. He claimed that some countries, while not publicly supportive, back Israel’s stance on Iran. Netanyahu expressed gratitude to former US President Donald Trump for his support in actions against Iran.
During the address, a significant number of delegates exited the General Assembly hall, both before and during Netanyahu’s speech. The Israeli leader criticized these delegates for what he perceived as a failure to acknowledge Israel’s security concerns and its right to self-defense.
Netanyahu also tackled accusations of Israeli war crimes, rejecting claims that Israel’s actions in Gaza constitute genocide. He defended Israel’s position on the West Bank but stated that violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians is unacceptable and should be condemned.
The Israeli Prime Minister’s speech came amid ongoing global criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza and continued debates over the future of the Palestinian territories. Netanyahu reiterated his stance against the establishment of a Palestinian state and questioned the Palestinian Authority’s effectiveness as a peace partner.