Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address to the United Nations was a composition of threats and rejections. He threatened the leaders of Hamas with death, and he rejected the international community’s calls for a two-state solution and a ceasefire in Gaza.
His ultimatum to Hamas was stark: “Lay down your arms… Free the hostages… If you do, you will live. If you don’t, Israel will hunt you down.” This threat was delivered after a mass walkout of over 100 diplomats protesting his government’s actions.
His rejection of Palestinian statehood was equally blunt. He called the recognition by 157 nations “sheer madness” and a “disgraceful decision.” He vowed that Israel would not participate in this diplomatic path, which he believes rewards terrorism.
Finally, he rejected calls to halt the Gaza offensive, pledging to “finish the job” in Gaza City. This trifecta of threats and rejections defines his current policy, one that prioritizes military force and unilateral action over diplomacy and international consensus.
A Speech of Threats and Rejections by Israel’s Netanyahu at UN
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