Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended Israel's military actions in Iran, Gaza, and other regions during his speech at the UN General Assembly. His address was met with protests as dozens of delegates walked out. Netanyahu stated, "We're going to win. We have no other choice," and challenged those who remained in the hall to leave if they were "moral cowards." He also dismissed allegations of genocide in Gaza.
In a recorded message prior to Netanyahu's speech, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas criticized Israeli policies, particularly the expansion of Jewish settlements in the West Bank, which he claimed threaten the existence of the Palestinian people and the two-state solution. Abbas, addressing the assembly via video link due to a denied US visa, described the situation in Gaza as a "genocidal war" by the Israeli military.
Netanyahu criticized nations and leaders who have condemned Israel, specifically targeting Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, whom he labeled a "tyrant" for his support of Hamas. Erdogan had previously condemned the injustices faced by Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank.
Netanyahu's remarks drew a response from Burhanettin Duran, communications director for the Turkish presidency, who stated that Netanyahu's accusations against Turkey were incompatible with the UN's ideals. The Israeli Prime Minister also criticized New York City's mayor, Zohran Mamdani, for creating an environment where many Jews feel unsafe.
Netanyahu expressed gratitude to US President Donald Trump for his leadership, particularly in relation to joint military actions against Iran. He aimed his speech at both Israeli citizens, as he faces an upcoming election, and American audiences, amid declining support for Israel in the US.
Protests against Netanyahu's visit led to several arrests, including actress Susan Sarandon and other demonstrators. The Israeli military's ground offensive in Gaza followed the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, which resulted in significant casualties on both sides. According to Hamas-run health ministry reports, over 73,920 people have been killed in Gaza during the ongoing conflict. The International Association of Genocide Scholars has stated that Israel's actions meet the legal definition of genocide, a claim Israel denies, asserting its military actions are acts of self-defense.