Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu firmly denied accusations of genocide in Gaza during his address to the United Nations General Assembly, asserting that such claims are unfounded and defending Israel’s military actions as necessary for national security. In his speech, Netanyahu also justified Israel’s aggressive stance toward Iran, labeling it one of the simplest decisions he has made, and suggested that several countries covertly back Israel’s efforts against Iran.
The address was marked by controversy as numerous delegates exited the hall, both before and during Netanyahu’s speech. Reacting to the walkouts, Netanyahu criticized those delegates, arguing that they failed to acknowledge Israel’s right to self-defense. He pointed to the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths, as a key justification for Israel’s military campaign.
Netanyahu took the opportunity to thank former U.S. President Donald Trump for his support regarding actions against Iran. He refuted allegations of Israeli war crimes and reiterated that operations in Gaza did not amount to genocide. The Prime Minister also addressed Israel’s position on the West Bank, condemning any violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians, yet maintaining his stance that Israel would not recognize a Palestinian state under his leadership.
His speech occurred amidst ongoing international criticism of Israel’s conduct in Gaza and continued disputes over the future of Palestinian territories. Netanyahu expressed skepticism about the Palestinian Authority’s effectiveness as a peace partner, emphasizing his government’s refusal to establish a Palestinian state.