Netanyahu vows to block Palestinian state project, describes it as ‘national suicide’
By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini
In a fiery speech at the United Nations General Assembly, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged to prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state, accusing Western nations of rewarding terrorism and pushing Israel toward “national suicide.”
Addressing the assembly on Friday, Netanyahu sharply criticized recent decisions by Britain, France, and other powers to recognize a state of Palestine.
“Israel will not allow you to shove a terrorist state down our throats,” he declared, arguing that such moves send a message that “murdering Jews pays off.”
The speech came amid ongoing efforts by US President Donald Trump to secure a ceasefire in Gaza.
Trump, following Netanyahu’s address, stated, “I think we have a deal.” However, Netanyahu vowed to continue Israel’s military campaign against Hamas, promising to “finish the job.”
Netanyahu’s appearance at the UN was marked by controversy. Facing an International Criminal Court arrest warrant for alleged war crimes, he took an unusual route to New York.
As he spoke, several delegations walked out, and protesters gathered nearby calling for his arrest.
The Israeli leader aggressively defended his country’s actions in Gaza, challenging genocide allegations and stating that civilians were urged to flee.
The conflict, triggered by Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack that killed 1,219 people in Israel, has resulted in over 65,549 Palestinian deaths, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.
Netanyahu also claimed parts of his speech were broadcast via loudspeakers in Gaza, aimed at both Hamas leaders and the remaining Israeli hostages, assuring them, “We have not forgotten you.”