Prime Minister Netanyahu Addresses U.N. General Assembly and Calls for Global Action Against Iran

On Friday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a charged speech at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, as dozens of diplomats walked out in protest. Netanyahu, undeterred, spoke about Israel’s fight for survival, stressing that the country seeks peace but is surrounded by enemies intent on its destruction.

"After hearing the lies against my country from many speakers before me, I decided to come speak here. Israel wants peace but it has enemies who want to destroy it. They want to destroy our common civilization and return us to an era of terror," Netanyahu stated.

Hamas and Iran's Role in Escalating Conflict

Netanyahu highlighted the devastating Hamas-led attack on Israel, backed by Iran, which took place earlier this month. "Normalization with Saudi Arabia seemed closer than ever, but then thousands of Hamas terrorists supported by Iran invaded Israel, murdered, raped, burned whole families, and kidnapped people. We will not rest until all the abductees are returned home," he declared, referencing the ongoing hostage situation.

Six Fronts of Conflict: Iran and Hezbollah's Escalation

Netanyahu also revealed the extent of Israel's ongoing conflict across multiple fronts, all with Iranian backing. "Israel is fighting on six more fronts that Iran has organized. Hezbollah attacked Israel from Lebanon. Then the Houthis in Yemen attacked us with missiles and bombs. Pro-Iranian militias in Iraq and Syria have also attacked Israel. Palestinian terrorists in the West Bank also carried out attacks with the support of Iran, and in April Iran attacked Israel directly from its territory." He issued a stern warning to Tehran, stating, "Attack us, and we will attack you."

Focus on Iran’s Nuclear Threat

The Israeli Prime Minister dedicated a significant portion of his speech to Iran’s nuclear ambitions, urging a global effort to halt their weapons program. "There is no place in Iran that Israel's long arm cannot reach. Iranian aggression will endanger every country in the Middle East and many countries in the West. The conciliatory approach towards Iran must end now," he emphasized, calling for renewed international sanctions against the regime.

War in Gaza and Hamas’ Exploitation of Aid

Netanyahu also addressed the situation in Gaza, claiming that while Israel has destroyed most of Hamas' military capabilities, the group continues to exploit humanitarian aid. "The terrorists still have control over Gaza by taking over the aid we bring in. They steal the food and then sell it for money to stay in power. This too has to end, and we are working on it," he stated, ruling out any future role for Hamas in Gaza’s governance.

Diplomatic Tensions and Ceasefire Talks

Netanyahu's trip to New York came amid reports of a U.S.-French proposal for a 21-hour ceasefire with Hezbollah in Lebanon, though the Prime Minister's Office has denied these claims. The tense diplomatic atmosphere, alongside ongoing conflict, underscored the high stakes of Netanyahu’s U.N. address.