Netanyahu Slams 'Moral Cowards' at UN After Walkout During Speech

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a fiery address at the UN General Assembly in New York this week, defending Israel amid ongoing international scrutiny over the war in Gaza. As Netanyahu began his speech, several delegates and representatives walked out of the hall, prompting the prime minister to label them "moral cowards."

Netanyahu dedicated a significant portion of his address to Iran's nuclear program, referencing a "red line" he had previously set at the UN. He acknowledged the difficult but necessary decision to act against Iranian nuclear facilities and highlighted cooperation with the United States in countering Iran.

Addressing criticism from Western nations, particularly accusations of colonialism, Netanyahu rejected claims made by France and the United Kingdom. He asserted that Israel defends countries whose leaders chose not to attend his speech. The prime minister also discussed the war against Hamas, recounting the events of October 7 and detailing Hamas's actions. He stated that Israel has been fighting on multiple fronts and inflicting heavy blows on its enemies, a point made against the backdrop of international criticism of Israel's operations in Gaza.

Furthermore, Netanyahu touched upon the situation in the West Bank, citing attempts to harm Israeli families on roads and mentioning the murders and injuries of Israelis. He argued that such incidents receive insufficient international media coverage. Regarding Israeli violence against Palestinians, Netanyahu characterized perpetrators as a "small group of criminals" against whom the state is enforcing the law.

Concluding his remarks, Netanyahu expressed gratitude to U.S. President Donald Trump, describing him as a key partner. This stance aligns with Netanyahu's pre-trip declaration to use the UN platform to counter criticism and present Israel's position. Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas also addressed the assembly via a pre-recorded video, having been denied entry to the U.S. Abbas criticized Israel's actions in Gaza, described a severe humanitarian crisis, and accused Israel of a "war of annihilation" while calling for a two-state solution and Palestinian self-determination.