Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the U.N. General Assembly on Friday, asserting that Israel “must finish the job” against Hamas in Gaza. His speech came as dozens of delegates from various nations walked out of the assembly hall in protest just before he began speaking. Despite the walkouts, applause was heard from some sections of the audience, while shouts of dissent echoed throughout the hall. The U.S. delegation, which has supported Netanyahu's military actions against Hamas, remained in attendance, although many other world powers sent lower-level diplomats instead of their senior officials.

During his speech, Netanyahu held up a map labeled “THE CURSE,” which he marked with a large marker. He wore a pin featuring a QR code that links to information about the October 7 attacks, which sparked the current conflict. Netanyahu also praised U.S. President Donald Trump, highlighting their alliance in the region. He announced an “unprecedented operation” where the Israeli army would take control of mobile phones belonging to Gaza residents and Hamas operatives, allowing his speech to be broadcast live through these devices.

Netanyahu's address came amid increasing international isolation and accusations of war crimes. His speech was a platform to counter growing pressure from the international community. Recently, several countries, including Australia, Canada, France, and the United Kingdom, recognized an independent Palestinian state. The European Union is also considering sanctions against Israel. A nonbinding resolution passed by the assembly this month urged Israel to commit to a Palestinian state, which Netanyahu has dismissed as unacceptable.

The International Criminal Court has issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu, accusing him of crimes against humanity, which he denies. Additionally, the U.N.'s highest court is reviewing allegations from South Africa that Israel has committed genocide in Gaza, a claim Israel strongly refutes. As he prepared for his speech, Netanyahu expressed determination, stating, “I will tell our truth,” and condemned leaders who support Palestinian statehood.

Opposition to Netanyahu's policies is mounting. During a special session earlier in the week, many nations condemned the October 7 Hamas attacks that resulted in approximately 1,200 Israeli deaths and 251 hostages. Representatives called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, where Israeli military actions have reportedly killed over 65,000 Palestinians and displaced 90% of the population, leading to severe humanitarian crises.

While more than 150 countries recognize a Palestinian state, the U.S. has not, continuing to provide strong support for Israel. However, Trump indicated there are limits to this support, stating he would not allow Israel to annex the occupied West Bank. Although no such announcement has been made, some members of Netanyahu's government have advocated for annexation. Recently, Israeli officials approved a controversial settlement project that critics argue could jeopardize the possibility of a Palestinian state.

In a related move, Israel announced plans to broadcast Netanyahu's U.N. speech into Gaza, using loudspeakers on trucks positioned along the border. This initiative aims to share his remarks with Palestinians in the besieged enclave without endangering Israeli soldiers.

Netanyahu's speech followed a video address from Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas, who was denied a visa to attend in person. Abbas welcomed the recognition of Palestinian statehood but urged the international community to take further action. He stated, “The time has come for the international community to do right by the Palestinian people” and emphasized their right to self-determination.

The ongoing conflict has deep historical roots, with Israel capturing the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza during the 1967 war. The Palestinians seek these territories for their future state, a goal that has been supported by the international community for decades. However, Netanyahu remains opposed to the establishment of a Palestinian state, asserting that it would reward Hamas. “This will not happen,” he declared.