Netanyahu Strongly Criticizes Recognition of Palestinian State at the UN, Many Delegates Walk Out

New York, United Nations Headquarters: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday delivered a fiery and dramatic speech at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, strongly criticizing Western nations for their decision to recognize a Palestinian state. He alleged that such actions send a message that “killing Jews brings rewards.”

Netanyahu said:

“This week, the leaders of France, Britain, Australia, Canada, and other countries unconditionally recognized a Palestinian state. They did this after Hamas’ October 7 atrocities — which were supported by nearly 90% of Palestinians at the time.”

He called the move a “stain of shame” and added:

“The message sent to Palestinians is absolutely clear — if you kill Jews, you get rewarded.”

Dramatic Presentation and Use of Props

Known for his theatrical style, Netanyahu again used props and visual aids this year. At the start of his speech, he unveiled a large map titled “THE CURSE” and used a thick marker to highlight the countries where Israel has killed its enemies over the past two years.

He then displayed a large card with multiple-choice questions, asking the audience:
“Who shouts ‘Death to America’?”
The options listed were Iran, Hamas, Hezbollah, and Yemen’s Houthi militia — the answer being “All of the above.”

Netanyahu also wore a large badge featuring a QR code that linked to a website explaining Israel’s perspective on the October 7 Hamas attack and the hostages taken. His office claimed that loudspeakers had been set up along the Gaza border so that people inside Gaza and the hostages could hear the speech. However, Gaza residents said they heard nothing.

Delegate Walkout and Protests

As Netanyahu took the podium, dozens of delegates walked out of the hall. Outside in New York’s Times Square, thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters blocked roads and chanted slogans against Israel. Inside the hall, Netanyahu’s supporters welcomed him with a standing ovation.

Gaza War and International Reaction

The October 7, 2023, Hamas attack killed about 1,200 people in Israel. In response, Israeli operations have killed more than 65,000 people in Gaza, according to local authorities, leaving most of the territory in ruins.

The countries recognizing the Palestinian state said the move was essential to preserving the two-state solution and bringing an end to the war. Shortly after Netanyahu’s speech, Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin addressed the UN, strongly criticizing Israel’s actions in Gaza.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu over alleged war crimes in Gaza, which he dismissed as a “blood libel of genocide.”

Message to the Hostages

Delivering part of his speech in Hebrew, Netanyahu addressed the hostages held in Gaza:

“We have not forgotten you for even a second. We will not stop until you are freed.”

Hamas has said it is ready to release the remaining hostages in exchange for the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza. Of the 48 remaining hostages, around 20 are believed to be alive.

Meeting with Trump and Diplomatic Context

U.S. President Donald Trump told reporters that a ceasefire and hostage-release deal is “very close.” Netanyahu is scheduled to meet with Trump in Washington on Monday. Analysts have warned that annexation of the West Bank could undermine the Abraham Accords.

Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid wrote on X:

“Instead of stopping the diplomatic tsunami, Netanyahu made Israel’s situation worse today.”

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, in a video message, called Israel’s actions in Gaza “genocide” and said preparations are underway for governing Gaza after the war.