Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated he will not permit Western leaders to impose a “terror state down Israel’s throat,” referring to the recognition of a Palestinian state as a “reward for Hamas.” He claimed that such recognition would lead to increased violence against Jews globally.
Of the 193 member states of the United Nations, 157 have officially recognized the Palestinian state, with Canada, France, and the United Kingdom being the latest to do so. In response to this recognition, Israel has threatened to annex parts of the occupied West Bank. During a speech at the UN General Assembly, Netanyahu presented a map that excluded the occupied territory.
U.S. President Donald Trump stated he would not allow the establishment of a Palestinian state, adding that it was irrelevant whether he had discussed this position with Netanyahu. Netanyahu’s speech at the UN was met with protests, as many attendees left the room, and he faced interruptions from the father of a hostage, who was subsequently removed.
In his address, Netanyahu reiterated that Hamas must disarm and release hostages, warning that Israel would “continue to hunt down” Hamas if they did not comply. He dismissed accusations of genocide and starvation, attributing any starvation to “theft by Hamas.” Earlier this year, Israel had restricted food supplies to Gaza as punishment for Hamas’ refusal to release hostages.
Netanyahu asserted that a total victory over Hamas would lead to peace in the region and mentioned the possibility of a security agreement with Syria. He also expressed a desire to initiate direct talks with the Lebanese government regarding peace.
Netanyahu instructed the Israeli military to broadcast his speech throughout the Gaza Strip, despite objections from the armed forces due to safety concerns. According to The Times of Israel, soldiers would need to leave their protected positions to set up loudspeakers, exposing them to potential enemy fire. Nonetheless, the military reported that it complied with the order.
During his speech, Netanyahu highlighted the threats Israel has eliminated over the past year using a map and marker.
