Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, faced a mass walkout of delegations during his speech at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on September 26, 2025.
Netanyahu denied accusations of “genocide” in Gaza and using “starvation” as a tactic, insisting that Israel is actually feeding the people of the devastated Palestinian territory.
The Prime Minister also claimed that Israel has “crushed the bulk” of Hamas’s “terror machine” and vowed to finish the job “as fast as possible”.
He further celebrated what he described as a series of Israeli strategic victories in the past year, including targeting Iran’s nuclear programme and assassinating Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in Lebanon.
Netanyahu also held up a map titled “THE CURSE” during his speech, marking it up with a large marker to illustrate his points.
In response, Netanyahu slammed Western leaders for succumbing to pressure, asserting that “Israel won’t” compromise on its goals.
U.S. President Donald Trump, however, has opposed Israeli annexation plans for the West Bank, saying, “I will not allow it. ”
As Netanyahu spoke, pro-Palestinian protesters gathered near the UN, expressing their opposition to Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Nidaa Lafi from the Palestinian Youth Movement accused Israel of waging war against “every conscientious human being in this world,” prompting chants of “shame” from the growing crowd.
The walkout by dozens of delegates underscored Israel’s deepening isolation as it continues its war in Gaza.
Many countries, including Western nations, have called for a ceasefire in Gaza and recognized Palestinian statehood.
Netanyahu faces war crime charges at the International Criminal Court, and his speech at the UNGA was seen as an opportunity for him to push back against international criticism.
Despite the backlash, Netanyahu remained defiant, stating that Israel “must finish the job” against Hamas.
