Netanyahu Faces UN Alone Amid Diplomatic Failure, Needs Peace Message

Israel's Ambassador to the UN stated that the organization, initially an anti-Nazi alliance, has become a global center for antisemitism, drawing parallels to Hitler's era. This sentiment echoes a harsh speech delivered by Israel's ambassador 51 years ago, around the time the UN passed a resolution labeling Zionism as racism, a resolution later rescinded in 1991. Despite this historical shift, the article contends that recent rhetoric from leaders like the King of Jordan, the President of Turkey, the Emir of Qatar, the UN Secretary-General, and the President of France has mirrored or exceeded the hostility of the past.

The author argues that while anti-Zionist propaganda has intensified, particularly on university campuses and spreading to media and social networks since the October 7th attacks, Israel has also contributed to its own diplomatic isolation. The article criticizes Prime Minister Netanyahu's government, suggesting it has played into Hamas's strategy by failing to prioritize hostage releases and demilitarization in exchange for a ceasefire. Instead, the narrative has focused on Israel refusing a ceasefire, exacerbated by statements about "no innocents" and government support for settlers in Judea and Samaria, which the author believes has alienated many Israelis and international supporters.

As Netanyahu prepares to address the UN General Assembly, the article posits he will be isolated, lacking the usual high-level meetings with world leaders. It contrasts this with past instances where Israel successfully navigated propaganda and garnered significant international attention. The author urges Netanyahu to choose between a speech appealing to his domestic base, further isolating Israel, or delivering a statecraft message that positions Israel as a nation seeking peace and reconciliation, expressing regret for civilian casualties, even those caused by Hamas. Such a message, the author suggests, could offer hope to those who support Israel both domestically and internationally.