Israeli Politicians React to Netanyahu's UN Address

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's recent speech at the United Nations General Assembly has drawn a spectrum of reactions from across Israel's political system. Members of the ruling coalition largely lauded the address, characterizing it as a powerful presentation of Israel's truth on an international stage often perceived as hostile.

Ministers Gideon Sa'ar, Bezalel Smotrich, and Itamar Ben-Gvir, along with Energy Minister Eli Cohen and MKs Aryeh Deri and Avi Maoz, praised Netanyahu for confronting what they termed 'lies' and 'anti-Semitism' directed at Israel. They emphasized his ability to represent Israel's interests internationally, with some contrasting his capabilities with those of potential political rivals.

In contrast, members of the opposition, specifically from the Democratic Party, focused on specific points within Netanyahu's speech. MKs Yair Golan and Gilad Kariv questioned Netanyahu's accusation against Qatar regarding its alleged role in spreading falsehoods and hosting Hamas officials, suggesting a lack of coordination in his messaging.

Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett criticized Netanyahu for what he saw as a missed opportunity to label Qatar as an enemy and expose its involvement in the October 7th attacks. Bennett argued that failing to directly confront Qatar harms Israel's national security and international standing.

Other reactions included a brief statement from MK Bisumot stating, 'We cannot be silenced. He cannot be silenced.' Yair Lapid offered a more conciliatory response, expressing support for Netanyahu's words to the Leiters and a prayer for Neria's well-being. Ahmad Tibi sarcastically noted Netanyahu's 'voluntary departure' from the hall as another international achievement.