World

United Nations: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a combative address at the UN General Assembly on Friday, vowing to prevent the creation of a Palestinian state and accusing European leaders of pushing Israel toward “national suicide.” The speech came days after France, Britain, and other Western nations recognized a Palestinian state. Palestine, officially the State of Palestine, is a country in West Asia. Recognized by 157 of the UN's 193 member states, it encompasses the Israeli-occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip, collectively known as the Palestinian territories. “You have sent a very clear message that murdering Jews pays off. Israel will not allow you to shove a terrorist state down our throats.” Netanyahu said. He pledged to “finish the job” against Hamas, claiming part of his address was broadcast on Israeli military loudspeakers in Gaza. “We have not forgotten you not even for a second,” Netanyahu said in Hebrew, addressing hostages still held since October 2023. “We will not be silent or let up until we bring you all home, the living and the dead alike.” Netanyahu also accused the Palestinian Authority of corruption, dismissing President Mahmoud Abbas as a weak rival to Hamas. Abbas, speaking virtually a day earlier after being denied a US visa, condemned both antisemitism and attacks on civilians. While Netanyahu has long opposed Palestinian statehood, he notably avoided mention of West Bank annexation a step some of his cabinet ministers have demanded. US President Donald Trump, promoting his own peace plan that includes Hamas disarmament, cautioned against annexation but praised Netanyahu. “I think we have a deal,” Trump said shortly after the Israeli leader’s speech. Also Read | Billie Eilish reaffirms support for Gaza in graduation post The address unfolded under heavy controversy. Netanyahu faces an International Criminal Court warrant over alleged war crimes, including starvation tactics in Gaza. His arrival in New York required an unusual flight route via the Strait of Gibraltar. Inside the UN hall, several delegations staged a walkout as he took the podium. Outside, protesters filled Times Square, calling for his arrest. Netanyahu rejected accusations of genocide, arguing Israel had “repeatedly warned civilians to leave” targeted areas. Critics note that nearly all of Gaza’s population has been displaced, and humanitarian law considers forced displacement a war crime. The Israeli leader also highlighted his recent strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, displaying a map and crossing out adversaries Israel claims to have killed. Iran boycotted the speech, leaving photographs on its desk of those it said were killed in the bombings. Netanyahu struck a defiant tone throughout his address. “We will not commit national suicide because you lack the courage to stand up to antisemitic mobs demanding Israel’s blood,” he told world leaders.