Amid walkouts, Netanyahu says ‘free the hostages’, asks Hamas to surrender in UN speech | World News
Israeli Prime Miner Benjamin Netanyahu holds up a map while speaking at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, at U.N. headquarters. (AP Photo/Stefan Jeremiah)
Israeli Prime Miner Benjamin Netanyahu detailed Israel’s regional operations, claiming they reshaped the Middle East, in his address at the United Nations General Assembly on Friday. He took credit for actions against Hezbollah in Lebanon, key Hamas leaders, Houthi forces, and Iranian scients, and highlighted Israel’s role in the fall of Syria’s Bashar al-Assad, without mentioning the name of the rebel offensive.
Displaying a large QR code on his lapel, containing Israel’s account of the October 7, 2023 Hamas-led attack, Netanyahu hailed Israel’s military operations in Gaza, calling the response to Hamas’s October 7 attack “one of the most stunning military comebacks in hory,” but stressed that the fight is not over. He warned that Hamas still poses a threat and intends to repeat its atrocities.
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Netanyahu claimed that while many world leaders publicly criticise Israel, they privately thank the country for its intelligence services, which have repeatedly prevented terror attacks in their capitals. “You know deep down that Israel, Israel is fighting your fight,” he said.
Speaking directly to the families of hostages in Gaza, saying: “The people of Israel are with you. We will not falter and we will not rest until we bring all of you home.” Israeli officials have broadcast his speech throughout Gaza.
The Israeli Prime Miner credited Israeli and US forces for neutralising Iran’s missile defenses and targeting nuclear enrichment sites during a 12-day war in June, praising US President Donald Trump for “bold and decisive action.” Netanyahu urged the UN Security Council to reinstate snapback sanctions on Iran, stressing the need to prevent the country from rebuilding its nuclear capacity.
His speech provoked protests, with several delegations walking out in objection.
