Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu launched a scathing attack on Friday at the United Nations General Assembly, criticising Western nations that recently recognised Palestinian statehood. Calling the move “dangerous,” he accused them of legitimising violence against Jews at a time when Israel has been engaged in a prolonged war with Hamas in Gaza.
“This week, leaders of France, Britain, Australia, Canada, and others recognised a Palestinian state — unconditionally. They did so after the horrors of October 7, when Hamas committed atrocities that nearly 90 percent of Palestinians publicly applauded,” Reuters quoted Netanyahu as saying. “You know what message it sends? A very clear one: murdering Jews pays off.”
Strong message amid ongoing war
Netanyahu’s remarks come as Israel’s most right-wing government has reiterated its outright opposition to the creation of a Palestinian state. Since Hamas’ October 7, 2023 attack, which killed around 1,200 people in Israel, the country has carried out a sweeping military campaign in Gaza. Local health authorities there report more than 65,000 deaths and widespread destruction.
His speech saw delegates from some countries walk out of the hall, even as others in the balcony gave him a standing ovation. Netanyahu accused world leaders of bending to pressure from “biased media, Islamist constituencies, and antisemitic mobs,” but claimed many privately acknowledge their reliance on Israel’s intelligence services in preventing terrorist attacks.
UN split over Palestine question
Australia, Britain, France, and Canada were among several countries this week to extend recognition to a Palestinian state, arguing it is the only way to revive the two-state solution and halt the war. Their stance followed mounting frustration over Israel’s Gaza offensive and U.S. President Donald Trump’s reluctance to press Netanyahu to ease military action.
Netanyahu dismissed allegations of genocide including an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court as “false charges.” He also addressed hostages still held in Gaza, insisting Israel “has not forgotten you for a single moment,” with his speech broadcast via loudspeakers along the border in hopes captives would hear.
Trump backed Israel’s position at the UN, warning Palestinian recognition would only embolden Hamas and perpetuate violence. However, he also ruled out demands from Netanyahu’s far-right ministers to annex parts of the West Bank, reflecting unease raised by Arab leaders. Trump hinted that a deal to end the war and secure hostage releases was “close,” though he provided no details.
Abbas welcomes recognition, slams Israel
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, denied entry to the U.S., addressed the UN via video link. He condemned Israel’s actions as “a war of genocide” and welcomed new recognitions of Palestinian statehood. Abbas said the Authority was ready to govern a post-war Gaza but reiterated that Hamas must be disarmed and excluded.
With Israel’s war in Gaza dragging on and global divisions sharpening, Netanyahu’s address underscored the widening gulf between Jerusalem and key Western allies. The matter is expected to dominate discussions when Netanyahu and Trump meet at the White House on Monday.
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