Shreya Varanasi, Pune
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the world leaders at the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Friday, September 27. During his address, PM Netanyahu emphasised that Israel seeks peace but it must keep fighting to defend itself against the savage murderers who plan for its destruction. In his strongly worded address, the Israeli PM warned Iran that Israel could strike anywhere with its ‘long arm’.
PM Netanyahu’s address comes at a time when Israel’s continued attacks on Iran-backed Hezbollah in south Lebanon raised concerns about a possible full-blown regional war. “There is no place in Iran that the long arm of Israel cannot reach, and that’s true for the entire Middle East,” he said.
Netanyahu also reiterated that Israel does not want to see any innocent people die.
He also stated that Israel will continue conversations on ceasefire ideas for Lebanon in the coming days. Meanwhile, Washington warned that any escalation could delay attempts by civilians on both sides to come home.
Meanwhile, talking about Hamas in his speech, Netanyahu said that the organization has ‘got to go’. He tried to reason saying that if Hamas stays in power then, it will regroup and attack Israel again and again. He claimed that Israel has destroyed 90% of Hamas missiles and caught or killed half of its members. He further added that Israel has sworn to battle till ‘total victory’ and will not take part in Gaza’s reconstruction.
He also blasted the United Nations for unjustly treating his country, calling it a disdainful farce.
During his speech, representatives of Iran and some other delegates walked out while the others applauded his words. The audience began shouting ‘shame shame’, leading the Jewish leader to begin by promising to counter ‘slander’ on the global platform.
In a strong show of strength, the Israeli Prime Minister told the assembly and the world “We are winning” as he concluded his speech.
According to the most recent numbers from Lebanon’s Ministry of Public Health, over 700 people have perished in Israel’s attacks since September 16, and more than 5,000 have been injured. Netanyahu stated that Israel would continue its operations in Lebanon until they meet their objectives.