Netanyahu Faces Criticism Over Abbreviated US Visit Amid Security Concerns

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to deliver a significant address at the UN General Assembly in New York, focusing on Iran's nuclear program. The approximately 40-minute speech, scheduled for 9:00 PM Israel time, is expected to present new intelligence and visual aids, and will include an unprecedented direct appeal to the Iranian people, referencing the potential collapse of the Tehran regime.

However, the brevity of Netanyahu's visit to the United States, lasting only about six hours, has drawn sharp criticism. He will land in New Jersey, proceed directly to Manhattan, and depart immediately after his speech, a schedule significantly shorter than in previous years. This tight itinerary notably excludes meetings with senior American officials, including former President Donald Trump.

The Prime Minister's Office attributed the reduced schedule to time constraints related to the upcoming Sukkot holiday and limited meetings with leaders from Argentina, Greece, and other nations. Critics, such as media personality Barak Seri, have interpreted this as a snub, suggesting Netanyahu is being ostracized and that Trump does not wish to meet him.

Conversely, Culture and Sports Minister Miki Zohar offered a different explanation, stating the visit was shortened due to security concerns. He indicated that security officials advised against a longer stay for Netanyahu, citing fears for his personal safety, partly in anticipation of large pro-Palestinian demonstrations expected in the city.

Amidst these diplomatic and security matters, Netanyahu also made a political announcement. On September 22, while en route to the UN, he revealed that Dr. Keren Assaig, a respected breast cancer researcher and academic, had joined his Likud party. Netanyahu welcomed her to the party in a video posted on his X account.