Netanyahu’s UN Speech Blasted Into Gaza: Walkouts & Loudspeakers

On September 26, 2025, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a defiant address to the United Nations General Assembly, vowing to continue Israel’s military campaign against Hamas in Gaza. His speech, however, was not confined to the halls of the UN; it was broadcast into Gaza using loudspeakers mounted on trucks at the border and allegedly streamed through commandeered mobile phones. This unprecedented move, coupled with a mass walkout by over 100 diplomats, sparked international controversy and intensified the already volatile situation in Gaza.

Netanyahu’s UN Address: Defiance and Controversy

In his speech, Netanyahu declared that Israel would “finish the job” in Gaza, dismissing international calls for a ceasefire and the recognition of a Palestinian state. He criticized countries like the UK, France, Canada, and Australia for recognizing Palestinian statehood, labeling their decisions as “disgraceful” and accusing them of appeasing terrorism 

Netanyahu’s rhetoric was sharp and provocative. He compared the idea of a Palestinian state near Jerusalem to granting al-Qaeda territory near New York after the September 11 attacks, calling such a notion “insane” . He also claimed that nearly 90% of Palestinians celebrated the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks, citing celebrations and distribution of sweets as evidence .

The speech was marked by Netanyahu’s use of visual aids, including a map titled “THE CURSE,” highlighting countries where Israel claims to have neutralized enemies, and a multiple-choice card pointing to Iran, Hamas, Hezbollah, and Yemen’s Houthi militia as anti-American actors 

The Gaza Broadcast: A Propaganda Move or a Tactical Misstep?

The Israeli military’s decision to broadcast Netanyahu’s speech into Gaza was presented as an effort to communicate directly with the population and Hamas. Loudspeakers were mounted on trucks at the Gaza border, and Netanyahu’s office claimed that the speech was also streamed through the mobile phones of Gazans 

However, reports from Gaza residents contradicted these claims. Many stated that they did not hear the broadcast, with some mentioning that they heard only faint voices overpowered by other sounds . This discrepancy raised questions about the effectiveness and sincerity of the operation.

Military sources also criticized the loudspeaker campaign, suggesting it lacked tactical value and may have been more about propaganda than practical communication 

Diplomatic Fallout: Walkouts and Global Backlash

Netanyahu’s speech was met with a significant diplomatic response. Over 100 diplomats from more than 50 nations staged a walkout in protest during his address . This unprecedented action underscored the growing international condemnation of Israel’s actions in Gaza.

The United Nations had previously held meetings urging a two-state solution and calling for an end to the conflict. Netanyahu’s speech, which rejected these calls and defended Israel’s military campaign, further strained relations between Israel and the international community 

The Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

The backdrop to Netanyahu’s speech is the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Since the conflict began in 2023, over 65,000 Palestinians have reportedly died, and conditions in Gaza have deteriorated significantly. Recent airstrikes, particularly in Gaza City, have resulted in further civilian casualties and widespread destruction 

Despite Israel’s claims of delivering humanitarian aid, many international observers and organizations have criticized the blockade and military operations for exacerbating the suffering of Gaza’s civilian population 

Netanyahu’s Controversial Rhetoric: Allegations of Genocidal Intent

Netanyahu’s repeated invocation of the phrase “remember what Amalek did to you” during the war has drawn criticism from various quarters. Amalek is a biblical figure associated with genocide, and scholars have argued that invoking this phrase may suggest genocidal intent .

Critics, including South Africa, have expressed concern that such rhetoric could be interpreted as a call for the destruction of the Palestinian people of Gaza. This has added to the international scrutiny of Israel’s actions and Netanyahu’s leadership.

The Role of International Leaders

International leaders have responded to Netanyahu’s speech in various ways. U.S. President Donald Trump, who has been a strong ally of Israel, stated that he would not allow Israel to annex the West Bank, signaling a potential shift in U.S. policy 

Meanwhile, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas condemned Israeli actions as genocidal and warned of the implications of West Bank annexation  His remarks, delivered via video, received a warm reception from many UN delegates, contrasting sharply with the response to Netanyahu’s address.

Domestic Reactions in Israel

Within Israel, Netanyahu’s speech has sparked debate. Some support his firm stance against Hamas and his rejection of international pressure. However, others question the effectiveness and morality of the ongoing military campaign and the diplomatic fallout it has caused.

Opposition leaders have criticized the government’s handling of the conflict and its impact on Israel’s international standing. They have called for a reassessment of strategies and a renewed focus on achieving a sustainable peace.

Conclusion

Benjamin Netanyahu’s UN speech on September 26, 2025, was a pivotal moment in the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict. His defiant rhetoric, the unprecedented broadcast into Gaza, and the mass diplomatic walkout highlighted the deep divisions and complexities surrounding the situation.

The international community remains divided on how to address the conflict, with calls for a two-state solution, humanitarian aid, and an end to hostilities. As the situation continues to evolve, the world watches closely, hoping for a resolution that brings lasting peace to the region.