Netanyahu sparks UN uproar with fiery attack on Iran, Britain, France
UNITED NATIONS, United States: Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, facing a difficult reelection campaign at home, delivered a fiery UN speech Thursday assailing enemies and allies alike – and sparking uproar in the chamber.
United Nations: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a contentious speech at the UN General Assembly, criticizing not only Iran but also Britain, France, and New York's first Muslim mayor, Zohran Mamdani. The speech, timed ahead of Israel's October 27 elections, left many envoys from around the world walking out in protest.
Netanyahu's accusations against Mamdani, branding him antisemitic, and his denials of ICC war crime allegations against him, drew strong reactions. The UN chamber saw tensions rise as demonstrators, including Hollywood actress Susan Sarandon, protested outside. Netanyahu also targeted Britain and France, accusing them of colonialism and past sanctions on Israeli exports.
He accused Turkey of backing Hamas and called its leader, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, a tyrant. Despite the heated atmosphere, Netanyahu's speech aimed to bolster his re-election campaign, though his standing with key allies was clearly strained.
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