Netanyahu Defends Military Actions at UN Amidst Delegate Walkout

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a defiant speech at the UN General Assembly, defending his country's military operations in the Middle East and asserting Israel's right to self-defense. The address was met with a walkout by dozens of delegates, prompting Netanyahu to label them "moral cowards."

"We're going to win. We have no other choice," Netanyahu declared, vowing to continue Israel's fight. He specifically rejected accusations that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, stating that such claims are unfounded.

Earlier, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas addressed the UN via video link, criticizing Israel's expansion of settlements in the occupied West Bank as a threat to Palestinian existence and the two-state solution. Abbas also accused the Israeli military of engaging in a "genocidal war" in Gaza, characterized by "killing, destruction, starvation and attempts at displacement."

Netanyahu also turned his criticism towards international leaders and nations that have condemned Israel's actions. He specifically targeted Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, calling him a "tyrant" and accusing him of supporting Hamas. Erdogan had previously told the UN that the injustices faced by Palestinians "deeply offends the conscience of humanity."

The Israeli prime minister also criticized New York City's mayor, Zohran Mamdani, whose office responded by stating Netanyahu had used his speech to spread "baseless lies meant to sanitize his genocide of Palestinians."

Netanyahu expressed gratitude to former US President Donald Trump for his "bold leadership," referencing joint US-Israeli air strikes against Iran. He stated, "Israel and America acted together not only to protect ourselves, but to save civilisation."

Protests against Netanyahu's visit occurred in New York City, with some demonstrators, including actresses Susan Sarandon and Hannah Einbinder, being detained.

The current conflict in Gaza began after the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and the taking of 251 hostages. According to Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry, over 73,920 people have been killed during the subsequent Israeli military campaign. The International Association of Genocide Scholars passed a resolution last year stating that Israel's conduct met the legal definition of genocide.

Israel has consistently denied committing genocide, asserting its actions are necessary for self-defense. The UN address comes amidst ongoing Israeli military actions and international scrutiny of the conflict. In February, Israel and the US initiated air strikes on Iran, citing suspicions of nuclear weapon development, a claim denied by Tehran. Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and US bases in the Gulf.