Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a defiant speech at the United Nations General Assembly on Friday, but much of his audience was missing. Dozens of delegates walked out in protest as Netanyahu vowed to press ahead with Israel’s war in Gaza, condemning recent moves by countries to recognize Palestinian statehood as “disgraceful” and accusing them of encouraging terrorism.
Netanyahu claimed his remarks were being broadcast directly into Gaza so that Israeli hostages could hear his message. He told them, “We have not forgotten you, not even for a second. The people of Israel are with you.” Addressing Hamas, he issued a stark ultimatum: “Lay down your arms. Let my people go. If you do, you will live. If you don’t, Israel will hunt you down.”
The Israeli leader insisted that while some Western governments may have “buckled under the pressure,” Israel would not. He framed the war as not only Israel’s struggle but part of a broader global fight against radical Islam, telling delegates, “You know deep down that Israel is fighting your fight.”
His appearance came under a shadow of legal troubles: both he and former defence minister Yoav Gallant face war crimes charges before the International Criminal Court. Netanyahu used the UN stage to push back on mounting criticism as Israel’s military campaign continues to spark outrage worldwide.
Outside the UN’s heavily secured headquarters, pro-Palestinian protesters rallied. “Israel has chosen a war against every conscientious human being in this world,” said Nidaa Lafi of the Palestinian Youth Movement, leading chants of “shame” from the crowd. Demonstrators accused Israel of pursuing ethnic cleansing and land seizure under the cover of war.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump signaled limits to his support for Netanyahu, declaring, “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.”
As Netanyahu spoke, his emptying chamber told its own story — a vivid symbol of how isolated Israel’s government has become on the world stage.