Israel's Netanyahu defends Iran war, rails against critics in combative UN speech
Hundreds of diplomats left the Assembly Hall as the increasingly isolated Israeli Prime Minister defended the Iran war and railed against Israel’s critics.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a combative speech at the UN General Assembly on Thursday, defending the Iran war and criticizing his country's critics. The speech, which showcased Israel's growing isolation, was tailored to an Israeli audience in preparation for his re-election campaign, according to an Atlantic Council expert.
Despite the hostile atmosphere, with diplomats filing out as Netanyahu approached the lectern, the speech did not achieve its intended goal of securing meetings with major world leaders, including the US president, according to a former US ambassador. Netanyahu also failed to reach out to Abraham Accords partners, instead using the platform to criticize New York City's mayor.
Brief written by urgent.news from Semafor's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
- UN General Assembly 2026: Walkout during Netanyahu's speech, and Middle East wars in spotlight middleeasteye.net
- PAL to resume Manila-Dubai flights after months-long Middle East suspension gulfnews.com
- Netanyahu’s UN speech was aimed at the world, yet Israelis wanted more - comment jpost.com
- Mass walkout for Netanyahu at UN; further AI hacks warning; and Lachie’s lucky break theguardian.com
- US, Chinese presidents discuss Middle East, Ukraine and Korean Peninsula crises english.ajel.sa
