While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was on the United Nations General Assembly platform in New York, the hall witnessed the withdrawal of dozens of diplomats, in a scene expressing the widening wave of international anger from its policies in Gaza and the continuation of the devastating war.
External protests raise Palestinian flags
Abroad, the speech coincided with mass protests in front of the United Nations headquarters, where the demonstrators carried Palestinian flags and banners calling for the end of the war and cutting American support to Israel. Israeli activists also raised opposition slogans against Netanyahu’s government, in the scene of the most prominent division even within the Israeli community.
Visual means and anti -advertising campaign
Inside the hall, Netanyahu used visual tools, including a map called “Damn” and a “QR” poster that leads to a site documenting the events of October 7. In parallel, his government launched a propaganda campaign in the streets of New York with slogans “Remember October 7”, but activists against Israel responded with opposition messages to the same advertising spaces.
Israeli opposition in the heart of New York
The protests were not limited to supporters of the Palestinians, as Israeli and American activists from hostages and survivors participated in demonstrations against Netanyahu. They raised slogans such as “Save Israel from Netanyahu” and “Stop the War”, stressing that the Prime Minister’s policies threaten Israeli democracy and the future of the hostages.
An increased international isolation and arrest warrants
Netanyahu’s speech came amid unprecedented diplomatic isolation, as countries such as Australia, Canada, France and the United Kingdom recognized an independent Palestinian state. The European Union also discussed the imposition of sanctions, while the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant against him on charges of crimes against humanity.
Applacement in contrast
Hundreds of officials and diplomats left in protest against the war in Gaza and human rights violations. While the American delegation applauded warmly confirming its steadfast support for Israel, as well as other delegations such as Canada, Britain and Norway survived without interaction, while delegations withdrew, including China, the Philippines and Azerbaijan.
Abbas calls for fairness of the Palestinians
Netanyahu’s speech was preceded by a speech by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas via video, after the American authorities refused to grant him an entry visa. Abbas welcomed the confessions of states in the Palestinian state, calling on the international community to take practical steps to end the occupation and ensure the rights of the Palestinians.
The continuation of the war and the tragedy of the humanity of Gaza
According to the Ministry of Health in Gaza, the war resulted in the killing of more than 65,000 Palestinians and the displacement of about 90% of the population. Despite international calls for an immediate ceasefire and aid flow, Netanyahu stressed in his speech his adherence to continuing military operations, saying: “We must finish the mission.”
