Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently delivered a powerful speech at the United Nations, Benjamin Netanyahu 2 maps at UN, shows India as ‘Blessing’ and Iran as ‘Curse’ rejecting calls for a ceasefire and presenting two starkly contrasting maps—one showing a future of peace, the other a future of terror. His address highlighted Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hamas and Iran, positioning Israel’s actions as vital for not only its survival but the stability of the Middle East and beyond.
Israel’s Fight for Survival
In his speech, Netanyahu opened by explaining why he had come to speak at the UN. He stated that although his country is embroiled in war, he felt compelled to respond to the “lies and slanders” against Israel. He emphasized that Israel, despite its longing for peace, is forced to defend itself against enemies seeking its destruction. These enemies, particularly Hamas, aim to annihilate not only Israel but also to plunge the world into “a Dark Age of tyranny and terror.”
Netanyahu also referenced his speech from the previous year, comparing the current situation to the choice Moses gave to the people of Israel thousands of years ago: blessing or curse. He suggested that today, the choice remains the same—between the blessing of peace and the curse of violence and war, intensified by the Iranian-backed Hamas attack on October 7th, which he described as one of unimaginable atrocities.
The October 7th Attack: A Turning Point
Netanyahu recounted the details of the brutal October 7th attack by Hamas, which marked a significant escalation in the conflict. Thousands of Hamas terrorists from Gaza launched a coordinated assault on Israel, killing over 1,200 people and committing horrific acts, including the murder and abduction of civilians. He drew parallels between the atrocities committed by Hamas and the Nazi Holocaust, evoking a sense of global historical responsibility.
The Prime Minister reminded the assembly that Israel had successfully freed 154 hostages, but vowed that the fight would not end until all hostages were released. This battle, Netanyahu insisted, is not merely about Israel’s security, but about defending the broader principles of civilization from barbarism.
Iran’s Influence and the “Arc of Terror”
A key theme in Netanyahu’s speech was Iran’s role in perpetuating violence and instability across the Middle East. He claimed that Iran is responsible for orchestrating attacks not only through Hamas but also through Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, and other militant groups across the region. According to Netanyahu, since October 8th, Israel has been forced to defend itself on multiple fronts as a direct result of Iranian aggression.
In a clear warning to the Iranian regime, Netanyahu declared, “If you strike us, we will strike you.” He emphasized that Israel possesses the capability to retaliate against Iran wherever necessary and that Israel’s response would not be limited by geography. This bold declaration illustrated Netanyahu’s commitment to taking proactive measures to safeguard Israel’s security.
The Two Maps: Blessing vs. Curse
Central to Netanyahu’s address were two maps. The first depicted Israel’s vision of a peaceful future, with the country forming a land bridge that connects Asia and Europe. Netanyahu described this vision as a “blessing” that would bring economic prosperity to billions of people across the globe through new infrastructure, including rail lines, energy pipelines, and fiber optic cables.
In contrast, the second map showed an “arc of terror” dominated by Iran. According to Netanyahu, this map represents the devastating influence of Iran, which has blocked trade routes, destroyed nations, and inflicted misery upon millions. He warned that if unchecked, Iran’s aggression could destabilize not just the Middle East, but the entire world.
The Need for Global Action Against Iran
Netanyahu urged the international community to end its “appeasement” of Iran, calling on responsible governments to join Israel in halting Iran’s nuclear ambitions. He argued that for too long, the world has turned a blind eye to both Iran’s internal repression and external aggression.
Specifically, he called for the reinstatement of UN sanctions against Iran, asserting that the global community must do everything in its power to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Netanyahu reminded the audience that Israel had successfully delayed Iran’s nuclear program for a decade but warned that the threat has not been eliminated.
The Battle Against Hamas: No Ceasefire Without Victory
Netanyahu was resolute in his rejection of any role for Hamas in a post-war Gaza. He likened allowing Hamas to remain in power to allowing the Nazis to rebuild Germany after World War II. Netanyahu insisted that Israel would not stop until Hamas was completely dismantled, emphasizing that this is the only way to ensure that the current conflict is the last of its kind.
He further criticized Hamas for exploiting its own people, stealing humanitarian aid, and using civilians as human shields. Netanyahu portrayed Hamas as not only a threat to Israel but also a brutal oppressor of the Palestinian people. He argued that the people of Gaza deserve a future free from Hamas’ tyranny, one in which they can coexist peacefully with their neighbors.
The Hezbollah Threat
Netanyahu also addressed the threat posed by Hezbollah, describing it as the world’s foremost terrorist organization. He highlighted Hezbollah’s unprovoked attacks on Israel following the October 7th massacre and pointed out the group’s long history of violence, including attacks on citizens from countries represented at the UN assembly.
He urged the people of Lebanon to distance themselves from Hezbollah, warning that the terrorist organization had placed their country in a “death trap.” While Israel is not at war with Lebanon, Netanyahu emphasized, it will not hesitate to defend itself against Hezbollah’s aggression.
A Vision for Peace: The Abraham Accords and Saudi Arabia
In the latter part of his speech, Netanyahu shifted from war to peace, highlighting the successes of the Abraham Accords, which normalized relations between Israel and several Arab nations. He expressed hope for a future peace agreement with Saudi Arabia, envisioning a partnership that would transform the region and bring security and economic prosperity.
Netanyahu described this potential agreement as “a historic reconciliation between the Arab world and Israel, between Islam and Judaism, between Mecca and Jerusalem.” He framed the ongoing battle against Iran and its proxies as a critical step in securing this future peace.
Conclusion: A Defining Moment
Netanyahu concluded his speech by reiterating that Israel has chosen the path of peace and prosperity, while Iran and its allies have chosen the path of terror. He called on the world to support Israel in its fight against Iranian aggression and to help secure a peaceful, stable future for the Middle East.
In Netanyahu’s vision, the choice is clear: the world must either embrace the “blessing” of peace or face the “curse” of terror. For Israel, the fight is far from over, but its commitment to victory and peace remains unwavering.
