In a fiery address to the United Nations General Assembly, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed claims that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza as “the biggest lie of the century.” He framed the speech as a direct response to a wave of criticism from world leaders and a handful of delegates who walked out of the hall.
Trump praised for decisive stance on Iran
Netanyahu explicitly thanked President Donald Trump for taking decisive action against Iran, noting that the United States’ firm posture has helped protect Israel and its allies. He reiterated that confronting Iran’s nuclear ambitions was “one of the easiest decisions I’ve ever had to make,” positioning the move as a moral and strategic necessity.
Accusations of genocide rejected
Addressing the assembly after several leaders condemned Israel’s war in Gaza, Netanyahu argued that Israel is defending not only its own citizens but also the interests of many nations represented in the chamber. He labeled the departing delegates “moral cowards” and urged any remaining critics to leave the hall as well.
Domestic audience and upcoming election
The speech was clearly aimed at a domestic audience as Israel prepares for a national election on Oct. 27. Netanyahu invoked the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack that killed about 1,200 people, comparing the loss to “40,000 innocent Americans slaughtered in less than 24 hours,” a figure intended to underscore the severity of the threat Israel faces.
Claims about West Bank violence
When pressed about reports of Israeli settler violence in the West Bank, Netanyahu dismissed the incidents as the work of “a handful of young juvenile delinquents” and warned foreign leaders and the international press of “distorted” reporting. He emphasized that his government will not tolerate vigilantism.
International criticism and walkouts
Scores of delegates left the chamber in protest, leaving many seats empty. General Assembly President Khalilur Rahman repeatedly called for order, while Netanyahu challenged the departing officials, saying, “If there are any other moral cowards who have not yet left this hall, please do so now.”
Broader context
Netanyahu’s remarks came after Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas delivered a prerecorded address urging the international community to act against Israel. The UN has documented more than 1,600 settler attacks this year, and the Gaza conflict has resulted in at least 73,922 Palestinian deaths according to the Gaza Health Ministry.
Implications for U.S. policy
By praising President Trump’s stance on Iran and condemning UN criticism, Netanyahu signaled a desire for continued U.S. support. The speech underscores the alignment between the Trump administration’s foreign‑policy priorities and Israel’s security objectives, reinforcing a partnership that many American conservatives view as vital to regional stability.
Netanyahu concluded by reaffirming Israel’s right to defend itself and warned that any nation that aids Iran’s nuclear program will face Israel’s resolve.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
