Netanyahu Rejects Truce, Vows to Continue Offensive Against Hezbollah
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared at the UN his intent to continue Israel's offensive against Lebanon's Hezbollah, dismissing a truce proposed by France and the United States. He emphasized that as long as Hezbollah chooses war, Israel will act to remove the threat and ensure citizen safety. The escalating conflict has already led to significant casualties and displacement in Lebanon.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared at the UN on Friday his intent to continue Israel's offensive against Lebanon's Hezbollah, dismissing a 21-day truce proposed by France and the United States.
Netanyahu's speech denouncing the UN as anti-Israel drew mixed reactions, with some delegates walking out and others applauding.
He emphasized that as long as Hezbollah chooses war, Israel will act to remove the threat and ensure citizen safety.
His remarks countered a ceasefire proposal coordinated by the White House with Israel.
Netanyahu also issued a stern warning to Iran, asserting that Israel could strike anywhere in the Middle East if provoked.
Several delegates, including those from Lebanon, Iran, and the Palestinians, exited during his speech.
Outside his New York hotel, protesters demanded an end to the violence in Gaza and Lebanon.
The conflict between Hezbollah and Israel has escalated since October 7, after a Hamas attack on Israel.
Netanyahu stressed that Hamas must be eliminated and would not partake in Gaza's reconstruction, aiming for 'total victory.' Israeli strikes on Lebanon since Monday have killed 700 people and caused 118,000 to flee, resulting in Lebanon's 'deadliest period in a generation,' per the UN.
The year-long clashes have resulted in over 1,500 deaths in Lebanon, surpassing the 2006 war death toll.
Netanyahu's speech denouncing the UN as anti-Israel drew mixed reactions, with some delegates walking out and others applauding.
He emphasized that as long as Hezbollah chooses war, Israel will act to remove the threat and ensure citizen safety.
His remarks countered a ceasefire proposal coordinated by the White House with Israel.
Netanyahu also issued a stern warning to Iran, asserting that Israel could strike anywhere in the Middle East if provoked.
Several delegates, including those from Lebanon, Iran, and the Palestinians, exited during his speech.
Outside his New York hotel, protesters demanded an end to the violence in Gaza and Lebanon.
The conflict between Hezbollah and Israel has escalated since October 7, after a Hamas attack on Israel.
Netanyahu stressed that Hamas must be eliminated and would not partake in Gaza's reconstruction, aiming for 'total victory.' Israeli strikes on Lebanon since Monday have killed 700 people and caused 118,000 to flee, resulting in Lebanon's 'deadliest period in a generation,' per the UN.
The year-long clashes have resulted in over 1,500 deaths in Lebanon, surpassing the 2006 war death toll.
