Netanyahu Defies Global Pressure at UN, Vows to ‘Finish the Job’ in Gaza Amid Walkout

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a defiant address at the United Nations General Assembly on Friday, asserting Israel’s unwavering resolve to “finish the job” against Hamas in Gaza. His speech, given amidst mounting international pressure and a notable walkout by numerous delegates, underscored Israel’s stance despite growing global isolation over the protracted conflict.

Speaking to world leaders, Netanyahu declared, “Western leaders may have buckled under the pressure… Israel won’t.” His address was met with a mass exodus of delegates from multiple nations as he began, symbolizing the deep divisions within the international community regarding the conflict.

Netanyahu condemned recent decisions by several nations to recognize Palestinian statehood, labeling them “disgraceful” and an encouragement to terrorism. He also reiterated his frequent accusation of antisemitism against critics, stating, “Anti-semitism dies hard. In fact, it doesn’t die at all.” The Prime Minister utilized a visual aid, a map titled “THE CURSE,” and wore a special pin with a QR code related to the October 7th attacks. He also praised former U.S. President Donald Trump for his stance on Iran and other regional issues.

In an unusual move, Netanyahu claimed his speech was being broadcast via loudspeakers at the Israel-Gaza border and streamed to residents’ mobile phones – a claim that journalists in Gaza could not immediately verify. The address comes at a time of unprecedented scrutiny for Israel, with countries including Australia, Canada, France, and the UK recently recognizing an independent Palestinian state.

The International Criminal Court has issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu, and the UN’s highest court is considering South Africa’s genocide allegations. Earlier this month, a UNHRC-commissioned panel concluded that Israeli authorities have committed acts of genocide in Gaza.

Despite the intense criticism, Netanyahu remained resolute, stating before his departure for New York that he would “tell our truth” and condemn leaders who “want to give them a state in the heart of Israel.” The conflict, triggered by Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack, has resulted in over 65,000 Palestinian deaths, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, and widespread displacement and starvation in Gaza.

While the U.S. has largely supported Israel, former President Trump, scheduled to meet Netanyahu, signaled limits by stating he wouldn’t allow Israel to annex the occupied West Bank. Netanyahu firmly opposes a two-state solution, maintaining it would reward Hamas. Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas, addressing the assembly via video, urged the international community to do more to achieve Palestinian statehood, lamenting their situation as “hostage to the temperament of Israeli politics.”

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