Netanyahu Delivers Defiant UN Speech Amid Mass Walkout and Global IsolationNew York, September 26, 2025

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the United Nations General Assembly today, vowing to “finish the job” against Hamas in Gaza despite widespread international condemnation and a dramatic walkout by dozens of delegates. The speech, delivered during the fourth day of the 79th UNGA session, highlighted Israel’s military operations while rejecting Palestinian statehood and directly appealing to hostages held by militants.Key Highlights from the Address

• Walkout Protest: As Netanyahu approached the podium, representatives from numerous countries—including many from the Arab world, Europe, and Latin America—exited the hall in a coordinated demonstration organized by the Palestinian Authority. This marked the second consecutive year of such protests against the Israeli leader, leaving large sections of the assembly empty and underscoring Israel’s deepening diplomatic isolation over the ongoing Gaza conflict. Social media footage captured the exodus, with users describing it as a “huge insult” to Netanyahu.
• Defense of Israel’s Actions: Netanyahu categorically denied allegations of genocide in Gaza, calling them “saturated with lies” and instead framing Israel’s campaign as a necessary response to Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attacks. He touted successes against Iran and its proxies, including recent strikes, and warned that recognizing a Palestinian state would reward “murdering Jews.” In a stark visual aid, he used maps and a “pop quiz” to illustrate his points, drawing criticism from Israel’s domestic opposition for relying on “gimmicks.”
• Direct Appeal to Hostages and Hamas: In a poignant moment, Netanyahu revealed that his speech was being broadcast into Gaza via massive loudspeakers placed along the border. Speaking in Hebrew, he assured the 101 remaining hostages, “We have not forgotten you, not even for a second.” Turning to Hamas fighters, he issued a dire ultimatum: “Free the hostages now. If you do, you will live. If you don’t, Israel will hunt you down.”
• Broader Geopolitical Context: The address came amid optimism from U.S. President Donald Trump, who stated today that a Gaza deal is “very close.” However, Netanyahu doubled down on continuing the war until Hamas is eradicated. Protests erupted outside Netanyahu’s New York hotel and near UN headquarters, with demonstrators decrying Israel’s actions. Hamas responded by hailing the walkout as proof of Israel’s global pariah status.

Netanyahu’s 20-minute speech elicited a mix of jeers and sparse cheers, reflecting the polarized atmosphere at this year’s UNGA. The full transcript is available on the UN website, and reactions continue to pour in on social media, where hashtags like #UNGA2025 and #NetanyahuUN trended heavily.