A Tale of Two Audiences: Netanyahu’s UN Speech and the Protests Outside

While Benjamin Netanyahu addressed a nearly empty UN chamber, thousands of protesters filled New York’s Times Square, creating a powerful split-screen moment of dissent. The Israeli Prime Minister’s defiant message inside was met with a roar of opposition on the streets outside.
In his speech, Netanyahu vowed to “finish the job” in Gaza and slammed the international community’s recognition of Palestine as “sheer madness.” His remarks triggered a mass walkout of over 100 diplomats, leaving his hardline stance to echo in a largely vacant hall.
He defended Israel’s actions, denying accusations of genocide and claiming many world leaders privately support him. He also issued a direct ultimatum to Hamas, promising to hunt down its leaders if they did not surrender and release all hostages.
The contrast between the sparse, formal audience inside and the passionate, crowded protest outside highlighted the deep divisions his policies have created. The events of the day showcased a leader increasingly isolated from official diplomatic channels but determined to broadcast his message of unwavering resolve.