In a highly charged comparison, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu equated recognizing a Palestinian state today with “giving al-Qaeda a state one mile from New York City after September 11.” He used this inflammatory analogy at the UN General Assembly to condemn the 157 nations that now recognize Palestine.
The speech was delivered to a mostly empty chamber, as a large contingent of diplomats from over 50 countries walked out in protest of his policies. The sparse attendance, even from allied nations like the US and UK who sent junior officials, highlighted the limited audience for his message within the diplomatic community.
Netanyahu was unyielding in his military promises, vowing to continue the offensive in Gaza until Hamas is completely dismantled. He stated that the “final remnants” of the group were in Gaza City and that Israel “must finish the job” to ensure its long-term security.
This defiant address came at a moment of unique political pressure, following a statement from Donald Trump that he would prevent Israel from annexing the West Bank. Netanyahu’s strategy appears to be one of confronting international criticism head-on while rallying his domestic base with uncompromising rhetoric.