Israeli UN Ambassador Challenges Hamas Portrayal in Security Council Quiz

Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations Danny Danon conducted a provocative "quiz" during a Security Council session in New York on the implementation of Resolution 2334, which declares Israeli settlements illegal. Danon displayed a series of images asking the council members to decide whether the individuals shown were "terrorists or journalists" and "UNRWA workers or commanders," aiming to highlight how international organizations, including the UN, allegedly present Hamas operatives as legitimate workers.

Danon identified several individuals by name, such as Muhammad Nasser Abu-Awadi and Ahmad Wisha, whom he labeled as Hamas terrorists despite claims they were journalists. He also questioned whether Muhammad Abu Itawi was a UNRWA employee or a terrorist, leaving the judgment to the audience. In his speech, Danon criticized UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres's report on Resolution 2334 implementation, accusing it of relying on Hamas propaganda rather than facts and unfairly condemning Israel while ignoring terrorist groups destabilizing the region.

Danon stated, "Hamas spreads lies. The UN repeats them. The world condemns Israel. Then the truth emerges with no apology or correction. It's time to stop echoing terrorist propaganda and start pressuring Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran."

During the same session, Israeli lawyer Itay Epstein harshly criticized Israel, comparing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former U.S. President Donald Trump to Hitler and urging the international community to take action against Israel. Epstein endorsed the International Court of Justice's advisory opinion and called for ending Israel's presence in the occupied Palestinian territories, dismantling settlements, and avoiding cooperation with what he termed an "illegal situation." He also urged countries to take measures against Jerusalem, accusing it of harming humanitarian efforts.

Danon reminded the council of Epstein's previous controversial comparisons and condemned his statements. The session underscored the deep divisions within the UN over Israel's policies and the ongoing debate about the legitimacy of settlements and the portrayal of Palestinian actors.