Netanyahu: Addresses UNGA80, Facing Strong Global Pressure

(The Post News)– Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is currently delivering his much-anticipated address on Friday at the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The prime minister faces global isolation, allegations of war crimes, and mounting pressure to end a war he continues to intensify.

His annual addresses at the UNGA are constantly closely monitored, frequently challenged, always assertive, and occasionally the stage for dramatic claims. However, he faces higher stakes this time around.

Global Pressure on Netanyahu to End the War

Over the past days, the recognition of an independent Palestinian state was announced by the U.K., France, Canada, Australia, and many other global leaders. On the other hand, the EU is contemplating imposing sanctions and tariffs against Israel. However, Netanyahu has noted that the nonbinding resolution passed by the UN assembly in September, which urges Israel to vow to a sovereign Palestinian state, is a dead end.

While the International Criminal Court has a pending warrant of arrest against Netanyahu for crimes against humanity, the International Court of Justice is looking into allegations made by South Africa that Israel committed a genocide in Gaza. He has, however, vehemently denied the allegations. Moreover, the Israeli prime minister also faces pressure from the U.S., his close ally, as President Donald Trump demands a permanent ceasefire deal between Israel and Gaza.

Trumps Rejects Annexing of Gaza

Meanwhile, Netanyahu continues to reject the recognition of the Palestinian state. To eliminate any genuine possibility of a sovereign, he has, together with his far-right allies, considered annexing the West Bank.

However, as he presents a peace deal that calls on Hamas to disband, Trump has issued a stern warning on Gaza annexation. Trump told reporters at the White House that he refuses to let Israel annex Gaza. “It is not going to happen,” Trump emphasized.

In light of this, the Israeli prime minister sounded determined as he boarded an Israeli plane on Thursday headed to New York, where UN top officials are gathering for this year’s UNGA summit. He declared that he aims to be the voice for his nation by denouncing the leaders who support the recognition of the Palestinian state, instead of “condemning the murderers, rapists, and burners of children.” According to Netanyahu, allowing Palestine to exist independently would be rewarding Hamas.

About the Author

Nomfundo Ngobese

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An experienced journalist who believes that giving voice to the voiceless can lead to constructive social change. For me, journalism is more than just writing stories; it is about enlightening, educating, and entertaining people of all ages, rich and poor, literate or illiterate. As a news editor at TPN, my responsibility is to guarantee people encounter all of these features through well-written, properly structured, and easy-to-understand stories, while also ensuring that our agency adheres to the essential principles and values of journalism.

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