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(NewsNation) — Amid global calls to end attacks in Gaza and as a growing number of nations recognize a Palestinian state, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the United Nations General Assembly on Friday.
Dozens of U.N. delegates walked out of the assembly when Netanyahu was introduced, and some were heard heckling him as he began speaking.
Sporting a pin with a QR code containing information about the Oct. 7 attacks, Netanyahu slammed the idea of a Palestinian state and doubled down on Israel's ground offensive in Gaza City.
"The final remnants of Hamas are holed up in Gaza City," Netanyahu said Friday. "They vow to repeat the atrocities of Oct. 7 again and again and again, no matter how diminished their forces. That is why Israel must finish the job.”
The renewed attacks in Gaza City started Sept. 16 with the goal to “destroy Hamas’ military infrastructure,” according to the Israel Defense Forces. Strikes in recent days have hit houses, tents and hospitals.
Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel's prime minister, during the United Nations General Assembly in New York, US, on Sept. 26, 2025. (David Dee Delgado/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Delegates leave as Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrives to address the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Sept. 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Richard Drew)
A State of Palestine sign in front of empty seats as Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel's prime minister, not pictured, speaks during the United Nations General Assembly in New York, US, on Sept. 26, 2025. (David Dee Delgado/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addresses the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Sept. 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Richard Drew)
According to Netanyahu, 48 Israeli hostages remain in Gaza, and 20 of those are alive. His address to the U.N. was reportedly broadcast over loudspeakers in the Gaza Strip.
"Our brave heroes ... We have not forgotten, you not even for a second," Netanyahu said, addressing the hostages. "The people of Israel are with you, that we will not falter and we will not rest, until we bring all of you home."
Netanyahu also delivered a message to Hamas.
"I now say, lay down your arms. Let my people go. Free the hostages. All of them, the whole 48 free, the hostages now," he said. "If you do, you will live. If you don't, Israel will hunt you down."
His speech came a day after President Donald Trump vowed to prevent Israel from annexing parts of the occupied West Bank: "I will not allow it. It’s not going to happen.”
Some members of the U.N. and the European Union have considered implementing tariffs and sanctions on Israel, pending the recognition of an independent Palestinian nation.
Netanyahu also faces a crimes against humanity warrant from the International Criminal Court and an investigation from the U.N. over accusations that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza.
Netanyahu has denied all allegations.
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