Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address to the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York City served as an exceedingly good example. He announced that Israel needs to “finish the job” in its ongoing military operation against Hamas in Gaza. His address was delivered after dozens of delegates stormed out in protest, a sign that the party is still divided over the bloody conflict. Amidst cheers and boos, Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s commitment to its military objectives while addressing the reality of hostages still held by Palestinian militants.
As he spoke, Netanyahu was no doubt thinking about the events of October 7, 2023. On that day alone, Hamas had carried out a surprise attack against Israel, killing over 1,200 people and taking many others hostage. He expressed concern that “much of the world no longer remembers October 7. We remember.” This message clearly highlighted his willingness to commit as long as necessary to make sure that the legacies of those who perished are not in vain.
Netanyahu’s address extended beyond a recounting of recent events. He catalogued Israel’s military successes against Hamas and other militant groups backed by Iran. He even went so far as to promote the idea that Israel has effectively eliminated any Iranian threat. He announced that the United States had “destroyed” Iranian nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities. His comments were reportedly piped through loudspeakers directed at Gaza, a tactic designed to scare both security threats and non-combatant civilians.
In one of the most moving parts of his address, Netanyahu went directly to the hostages still in Hamas’s clutches. During his speech, he promised them and their families a fair shot in life and that they had not been forgotten. “We’ve not forgotten you – not even for a second,” he stated, emphasizing the Israeli government’s commitment to securing their release.
The Prime Minister was obviously not afraid to call out Western countries for their reluctance to affirm Palestinian statehood. He warned countries of the consequences should they grant recognition to a Palestinian state. He said they failed to reckon with the consequences of their advocacy after the attacks on October 7. Netanyahu said, “This week, the leaders of France, Britain, Australia, Canada and other countries recognized a Palestinian state without any conditions. They responded with resolve after the atrocities perpetrated by Hamas on October 7. Not only that, but on that same day, almost 90% of the Palestinian people supported these operations. He articulated his belief that this recognition sends a troubling message: “It’s a very clear message: murdering Jews pays off.”
Netanyahu’s speech included a strong denunciation of what he described as Western nations’ embrace of Palestinian statehood. He reasoned that these kinds of moves are undercutting the US commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region. His rhetoric was pointed as he stated, “Would a country committing genocide plead with the civilian population it is supposedly targeting to get out of harm’s way?”
Netanyahu unapologetically defended IDF military operations and attacked geopolitical double standards. He too thanked US President Donald Trump for supporting Israel in its war against Iran. He praised Trump’s “bold, decisive action,” crediting it with contributing to Israel’s security.
As a man of action, Netanyahu is certainly devoted to openness and public discourse. He commanded that his address be transmitted to Palestinians living in Gaza through loudspeakers attached to trucks stationed on the Israeli border. This action served as a dual-purpose effort: to inform the local population of Israel’s intentions and to convey a message to Hamas.