At the United Nations, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered one of his fiercest speeches yet—slamming Western nations for recognizing a Palestinian state and accusing them of sending a dangerous message: “Murdering Jews pays off.”
The remarks came as France, Britain, Australia, Canada, and other U.S. allies openly recognized Palestinian statehood. For Netanyahu, this was nothing short of betrayal, especially after the October 7 Hamas attacks that killed around 1,200 people in Israel.
“This week, leaders recognized a Palestinian state after the horrors of October 7—horrors praised by nearly 90% of Palestinians. The message is clear: murdering Jews pays off,” Netanyahu declared.
A Divided Room at the UN
As Netanyahu took the stage, the hall split in two—scores of delegates walked out, while others rose to their feet with a standing ovation. The contrast reflected Israel’s growing isolation on the world stage.
Netanyahu accused many leaders of caving to pressure from media, radical groups, and what he called “antisemitic mobs.” Yet he claimed that behind closed doors, these same leaders thank Israel for its intelligence work that prevents terror in their own countries.
War, Hostages, and Accusations
The war in Gaza has stretched nearly two years. Israel’s response, according to local officials, has killed more than 65,000 people and devastated the territory. Arab and Muslim leaders have gone as far as accusing Israel of genocide—a charge Netanyahu fiercely rejected.
Speaking in Hebrew, Netanyahu turned emotional as he addressed Israeli hostages still trapped in Gaza:
“We’ve not forgotten you—not even for a second.”
He even arranged for his speech to be broadcast on loudspeakers at the Gaza border, hoping the hostages could hear his promise.
Trump, Abbas, and the Road Ahead
Adding to the drama, former U.S. President Donald Trump told reporters a deal for the release of hostages was “close,” though he gave no details. He warned that recognizing a Palestinian state could reward Hamas and prolong the conflict.
Meanwhile, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, speaking via video after being denied a U.S. visa, accused Israel of genocide and thanked countries recognizing Palestine. He vowed the Palestinian Authority was ready to govern Gaza after the war—without Hamas.
The Uncertain Future
Netanyahu is walking a political tightrope—balancing his pledge to crush Hamas, the demands of far-right allies, the grief of hostage families, and the war-weariness of Israelis.
While more nations back Palestinian independence, ultimate recognition hinges on the UN Security Council, where the United States holds veto power. For now, the path to peace—or escalation—remains uncertain.
