Netanyahu speaks to a semi-empty hall, Abbas in a pre-recorded video message

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas delivered opposing addresses at the United Nations General Assembly on September 24. Netanyahu spoke to a partially empty hall after several delegations walked out in protest, an action that required the Assembly president to call for order.

Abbas delivered his remarks via a pre-recorded video message from Ramallah because the United States denied him an entry visa for the second consecutive year.

During his speech, Netanyahu rejected accusations of genocide, calling them the greatest lie of the century. He defended Israeli military operations, stating his government attempts to protect civilians through evacuation notices and humanitarian aid. Netanyahu also claimed responsibility for attacks against Iranian nuclear facilities, describing the move as necessary for Israel's survival. He further accused various governments, social networks, and international media of spreading disinformation about his country.