Showing no signs of bowing to global pressure, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu used his UN address to promise an escalation of the war in Gaza. He identified Gaza City as the final objective, vowing to eliminate the “remnants of Hamas” there.
This promise was made in the face of a mass diplomatic walkout and widespread international condemnation. The speech signaled that his government is prepared to withstand further isolation to achieve its military aims. He dismissed the push for a two-state solution as “sheer madness” and a reward for terror.
Reports of ongoing civilian casualties in Gaza, including a strike on a displacement camp, provided a grim real-time context to his vows. The International Criminal Court’s investigation into alleged war crimes also loomed over the proceedings.
Netanyahu’s address was a clear message to the world: diplomatic protests, humanitarian concerns, and legal challenges will not deter him. For his government, the only acceptable outcome is the one achieved through military force.