Netanyahu Defends Military Actions at U.N., Rejects Calls for Ceasefire Amid Ongoing Conflict

In a defiant speech at the United Nations General Assembly on Friday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s stance against calls for a ceasefire in its ongoing conflict with Hezbollah and Gaza. Amid escalating military actions, Netanyahu declared that Israel is “winning on multiple fronts” and remains committed to attacking Iran-backed militants across the Middle East.

As Netanyahu addressed the Assembly, Israeli air force jets conducted strikes on Hezbollah targets in central Beirut. The Israeli government claims these locations serve as a key operational base for the militant group, which has been involved in recent escalations.

Netanyahu’s address, which sharply criticized the U.N. for fostering “antisemitic bile,” was met with walkouts from many U.N. delegates. His remarks came after several Arab leaders, including Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, condemned Israel’s military actions in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon. Abbas argued that Israel’s response to the October 7 Hamas-led attack has resulted in what he described as a “war of genocide” against Palestinians, accusations which Israel has repeatedly denied.

Despite mounting international pressure for a ceasefire, Netanyahu remained resolute. “Israel yearns for peace,” he said, adding that while Israel has previously made peace, it will continue its military operations until its security objectives are achieved.

Netanyahu’s firm stance has not only sparked controversy abroad but also within Israel, where critics accuse him of using public statements to obstruct peace negotiations. Recent talks, facilitated by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar, aimed at brokering a ceasefire in Gaza, have reportedly stalled due to Israel’s demands.

Israel’s U.N. ambassador Danny Danon commented on the situation, stating that while diplomacy is preferred, military actions will continue until Israel achieves its goals of ensuring the safe return of 70,000 Israeli citizens displaced by the conflict and the neutralization of Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.

As Israeli forces ramp up airstrikes and mobilize additional reserves near the northern border, Netanyahu is also facing legal challenges. The International Criminal Court has issued a demand for his arrest, accusing him of war crimes related to the conflict, which Netanyahu has dismissed as politically motivated.

The ongoing military campaign and Netanyahu’s diplomatic maneuvering continue to shape the conflict’s trajectory, leaving the prospect of a ceasefire uncertain as tensions in the region remain high.