Netanyahu Addresses UN General Assembly, Criticizing Iran, Hamas, and Qatar

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a speech at the 81st session of the UN General Assembly in New York on September 24th, focusing heavily on the war with Iran and its allies, the events of October 7th, the war in Gaza, international accusations against Israel, and criticism of Qatar, Turkey, and New York City Mayor Eric Adams. His address was marked by the departure of dozens of diplomats from numerous Arab and Muslim nations, including Iran, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, though delegates from the UAE, Bahrain, China, and Colombia remained. Netanyahu began by challenging those who left, stating, "If there are still moral cowards left in this hall who have not yet left, please do so now."

Netanyahu recounted his 2012 "red line" speech regarding Iran's nuclear program, asserting that Israel prevented Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. He highlighted the irony that while Israel acted to protect itself and the world, many nations whose delegates walked out privately thanked Israel for curbing Iran's nuclear capabilities. He drew parallels to the existential threats faced by Israel in 1967 and the Six-Day War, emphasizing that the conflict is about Israel's existence, not territory, and recalling the nation's preparation for mass casualties.

The Prime Minister then recounted the 1976 Entebbe rescue operation, led by his brother Yoni Netanyahu, who was killed during the mission. He connected this to the October 7th Hamas attack, describing it as the "darkest day in Israel's history" and the "greatest massacre of Jews since the Holocaust." Netanyahu detailed the atrocities committed by Hamas, stating that 1,200 Israelis were killed, which he equated to 40,000 Americans proportionally. He asserted that Israel is fighting on seven fronts against Hamas, Hezbollah, the Houthis, Iran, and other militant groups, and has inflicted significant damage on them.

Netanyahu strongly criticized Qatar and Turkey for hosting Hamas leaders and accused Qatar of spreading anti-Israel propaganda through media like Al Jazeera. He labeled Turkish President Erdogan a "tyrant" for his actions and rhetoric against Israel and other nations. He also addressed the accusations of genocide against Israel, calling them the "greatest lie of this century" and citing a West Point expert who stated Israel has done more to prevent civilian casualties than any other army in history. He specifically criticized New York City Mayor Eric Adams for his stance on the conflict and alleged antisemitism within his administration.

Concluding his address, Netanyahu declared that the era of Jews being defenseless victims is over, emphasizing Israel's strength and resolve. He urged Jews worldwide to stand proud and resist intimidation. He also called for a united front against the "barbarians" threatening civilization, while acknowledging that some Western nations have chosen appeasement over defending freedom. He expressed confidence in Israel's future, highlighting its innovations and its commitment to defending itself, stating, "We have no other choice."