Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a stark life-or-death ultimatum to the remaining Hamas leadership during a contentious speech at the United Nations. “Lay down your arms… Free the hostages,” he commanded. “If you do, you will live. If you don’t, Israel will hunt you down.”
This direct threat was a centerpiece of a speech characterized by defiance against a backdrop of diplomatic protest. Over 100 diplomats walked out of the General Assembly, leaving Netanyahu to address a mostly vacant chamber. His message was broadcast on loudspeakers in Gaza in an apparent psychological tactic.
Beyond the threat to Hamas, Netanyahu attacked the international community for recognizing a Palestinian state, a move he called “sheer madness.” He asserted that such diplomatic actions only encourage violence and vowed that Israel would not participate in what he sees as a dangerous folly.
The speech also included a firm promise to continue the military assault on Gaza City to eradicate the last Hamas elements. This pledge came despite ongoing reports of civilian deaths and widespread condemnation of the humanitarian situation, which the International Criminal Court is investigating as a potential war crime.