Netanyahu Defends Gaza War, Denies Genocide at UN Amidst Protests

Facing a global audience and a hall emptied by a diplomatic walkout, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu used his UN speech to defend his country’s military actions in Gaza and explicitly deny accusations of genocide. “Would a country committing genocide plead with the civilian population it is supposedly targeting to get out of harm’s way?” he asked.
His defense came as part of a broader, defiant address where he pledged to “finish the job” against Hamas in Gaza City. This vow was made as rescue forces in Gaza reported more than 22 new fatalities, highlighting the ongoing human cost of the conflict that has now stretched for nearly two years.
Netanyahu also launched a blistering attack on the 157 countries that have recognized Palestinian statehood, labeling the decision “insane” and a dangerous concession to terrorism. The mass walkout by over 100 diplomats served as a silent but powerful rebuttal to his position from a significant portion of the international community.
The Israeli leader claimed to have private support from world leaders who publicly criticize him, a statement that could not be verified. Meanwhile, thousands of protesters gathered in New York’s Times Square, providing a public counterpoint to the official proceedings inside the UN headquarters.