Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's UN speech sparks a walkout as delegates condemn his Gaza war claims. Netanyahu accused critics of being 'moral cowards' and defended Israel's actions, despite facing an International Criminal Court arrest warrant. The speech, which lasted 40 minutes, was broadcast live and marked a key moment in Netanyahu's political campaign ahead of elections.
Netanyahu accused New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani of supporting Hamas and called Western leaders 'antisemitic mobs.' He also accused Qatar and Turkey of spreading lies about Israel. Mamdani, who campaigned on a promise to arrest Netanyahu for alleged war crimes, described him as 'the architect of a horrific genocide against Palestinians.' Netanyahu's speech, which included references to Iran and Hezbollah, was met with protests and calls for Israel to stop arming the country.
The walkout and protests highlight deepening diplomatic isolation for Israel since its Gaza war. Netanyahu's political future is on the line as he faces criticism over his government's actions. The UN address, which included a visual spectacle of charts and props, was part of a broader campaign to defend Israel's position. The speech, which was broadcast live, underscores the intense scrutiny facing Netanyahu and his government.
Netanyahu's speech included a false accusation against Mamdani, who described him as 'the architect of a horrific genocide against Palestinians.' Mamdani's statement highlights the ongoing debate over Israel's actions in Gaza. The walkout and protests underscore the complex political and diplomatic landscape surrounding Netanyahu's government and its actions in the region.