Israel’s Netanyahu denounces enemies, allies in fiery UN speech

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a contentious speech at the United Nations General Assembly, targeting various adversaries and allies. The fiery address came as Netanyahu faces a challenging re-election bid in Israel's upcoming elections on October 27. During the speech, Netanyahu accused Iran of being a "murderous dictatorship" and claimed the ongoing war against Iran had prevented the nation from developing nuclear weapons.

He also criticized New York's first Muslim mayor, Zohran Mamdani, calling him antisemitic and alleging that his election had made Jews feel unsafe in the city. The International Criminal Court (ICC) holds Netanyahu responsible for war crimes in the Gaza campaign, a claim he denies. Tensions heightened as dozens of envoys walked out of the chamber, some jeering and booing, while Netanyahu's entourage applauded.

The UN session's speaker demanded order amidst the uproar. Critics, such as Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, denounced Netanyahu's claims as baseless lies meant to justify his actions in Gaza. Despite the strained relations, Britain and France, longstanding partners of Israel, also faced Netanyahu's wrath. The former colonial powers imposed limited sanctions on Israeli exports from the West Bank and criticized Israel for its past imperialistic endeavors.