Saturday, March 29, 2025
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to address the United Nations General Assembly on Friday, amid growing international isolation, mounting accusations of war crimes, and increasing pressure to end the Gaza conflict. His annual speech at the UN is always closely watched and often sparks protests due to his sharp rhetoric and dramatic accusations.
In recent weeks, countries including Australia, Canada, France, and the United Kingdom have announced recognition of Palestine as a state. Meanwhile, the European Union is considering imposing tariffs and sanctions on Israel. Earlier this month, the UN General Assembly passed a non-binding resolution urging Israel to commit to the creation of an independent Palestinian state.
At the same time, the International Criminal Court has issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu over alleged crimes against humanity—charges he has rejected. The International Court of Justice is also examining South Africa’s claims that Israel committed genocide in Gaza, which Israel denies.
Before boarding his flight to New York on Thursday, Netanyahu declared:
“I will tell the truth. I will denounce those leaders who, instead of condemning the murderers, rapists, and child-burners, want to give them a state in the heart of Israel.”
Despite this defiance, opposition to his approach has been growing. During a special UN General Assembly session this week, many nations expressed concern over the 2023 Hamas attacks, which killed about 1,200 people in Israel, left 251 hostages in captivity, and triggered the ongoing war. Several delegates called for an immediate ceasefire and urgent humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Ahead of Netanyahu’s appearance, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas addressed the assembly via video, after the United States denied him a visa. Abbas welcomed recent recognitions of Palestine but said the international community must take stronger steps to secure full statehood.
“It is time for the world to treat the Palestinian people fairly,” he said.
Israel captured the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza Strip during the 1967 Middle East war. Although Israel withdrew from Gaza in 2005, Palestinians want all three territories to form part of a future independent state—a two-state solution long backed by the international community.
Netanyahu, however, remains firmly opposed, arguing that a Palestinian state would only strengthen Hamas. Speaking at the airport on Thursday, he said,
“That will not happen.”
