At the United Nations General Assembly, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faced immediate backlash as dozens of delegates walked out during his speech. Netanyahu defended Israel’s military campaigns in Gaza, Iran, and the broader Middle East, dismissing allegations of genocide as "the biggest lie of the century." His remarks, which included accusations against Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan for allegedly supporting Hamas, were met with visible protests both inside and outside the UN headquarters.
Netanyahu’s speech, delivered amid heightened tensions, drew criticism from multiple nations. Turkish state media condemned his "baseless accusations" against Erdoğan, while Saudi, Turkish, and Pakistani military leaders called for urgent talks over Houthi attacks, invoking the Mecca pact. Meanwhile, in New York, activists including Hannah Einbinder and Susan Sarandon were detained during a protest against Netanyahu’s policies.
The UN assembly remained tense as delegates left the hall, reflecting growing international divisions over Israel’s actions in Gaza. Reports suggest the situation could escalate, with calls for further diplomatic engagement. As the debate continues, the international community remains divided on the legitimacy of Israel’s military operations.
