Gaza Offensive to Continue, Netanyahu Tells Near-Empty UN Assembly

Benjamin Netanyahu told a near-empty UN General Assembly that Israel’s offensive in Gaza would continue until the “job is finished.” The Israeli Prime Minister’s declaration of military intent was delivered after a mass walkout by over 100 diplomats protesting his government’s actions.
Netanyahu focused on the need to eliminate the “final remnants of Hamas” in Gaza City, framing the nearly two-year war as a defensive necessity. His vow came as reports from Gaza detailed over 20 new deaths, including in a strike on a camp for displaced people, underscoring the ongoing humanitarian cost of the conflict.
In addition to his military promises, Netanyahu launched a scathing attack on the international community’s support for Palestinian statehood. He called the decision by 157 nations, including recent recognitions by the UK and France, “insane” and a reward for the violence of October 7.
The speech was also notable for what it omitted. Netanyahu made no mention of Donald Trump’s recent pledge to block any Israeli annexation of the West Bank, a key policy goal for his rightwing coalition partners. A meeting with the White House is scheduled for Monday, where these diverging views may be discussed.