UN Delegates Boycott Netanyahu Speech Amid Growing Isolation of Israel
On Friday, global diplomatic circles witnessed a significant event at the United Nations General Assembly: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered his speech in an almost empty hall as delegates walked out en masse to protest and boycott his address.
This act symbolized an increasing international isolation of Israel, reflected in the growing number of countries supporting Palestine and recognizing the State of Palestine.
Over 150 UN member states have already voted or expressed support for this stance, while South Africa’s lawsuit to the International Court regarding alleged genocide in the Gaza Strip is under review by the UN’s principal judicial body.
Additionally, the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu on charges of crimes against humanity, further escalating tensions surrounding the Israeli leader.
During his speech before a nearly deserted hall, Netanyahu defended his government’s actions, dismissing accusations.
“Do you know what message Palestinian leaders sent this week? It’s a clear message: killing Jews is being rewarded,” he stated.
He emphasized that Israel is taking measures to prevent civilian casualties, including facilitating food deliveries to the besieged Gaza Strip.
“Would a country accused of committing genocide plead with the civilian population to leave danger zones? The answer is obvious: no,” Netanyahu argued.
He also highlighted Israel’s efforts to evacuate civilians from conflict zones, contrasting with Hamas’s attempts to retain them.
Meanwhile, U.S.
former President Donald Trump expressed opposition, stating that recognizing Israeli annexation of the West Bank would be unacceptable and contrary to international commitments.
Supporters of Israel maintain that civilian casualties are unfortunate but an inevitable consequence of urban combat and fighting against enemies hiding among civilians.
Critics, however, argue that Israel’s extensive military strikes often maximize civilian suffering and that policies like periodic blockades of humanitarian aid are deliberate tactics to inflict harm and pressure Hamas.
The ongoing debate continues to shape international perceptions of the conflict and diplomatic responses.