Netanyahu at UN: 'Choose Wisely' or Choose Hezbollah

Netanyahu at UN: 'Choose Wisely' or Choose Hezbollah

4 minute read
Published: 9/29/2024

In a fiery address at the UN, Netanyahu labeled the organization a 'house of darkness' while pledging Israel's relentless fight against Hamas and Hezbollah, despite facing international protests and walkouts from diplomats.

Netanyahu's speech, steeped in biblical references and fiery rhetoric, underscored Israel's unwavering stance against perceived threats, highlighting a commitment to military actions in Gaza and Lebanon amidst growing global criticism. While claiming his operations are the 'most moral campaign in history,' he managed to alienate even more diplomats, leaving many questioning whether he's seeking peace or just another round of applause for his one-man show.

The Israeli Prime Minister did not hold back during his address, asserting that Israel will continue its military operations against both Hamas and Hezbollah until what he termed 'total victory' is achieved. The specifics of what that victory entails were left somewhat elusive, as no comprehensive blueprint for peace—or, indeed, the aftermath of such military actions—was shared. Many in attendance surely wondered if total victory included free snacks for the diplomats watching from afar.

As Netanyahu spoke, he argued that more resolutions have been passed against Israel than against any other country in the past decade, claiming that critics of the Israeli military’s actions engaged in nothing less than slander. The irony that this very speech could also be viewed as a form of slandering criticism was likely not lost on anyone sipping coffee while trying to decipher diplomatic protocols.

Netanyahu emphasized that dismantling both Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon was imperative. One couldn't help but feel a touch of sympathy for Hezbollah and Hamas, now burdened with the task of sharing the brunt of Netanyahu's ire. Meanwhile, in a dazzling act of equanimity, he warned Iran against any form of aggression, apparently expecting them to be moved by his fervent declarations. After all, what’s a bit of warfare without a healthy dose of rhetoric to back it up?

While delivering his address, Netanyahu addressed the tragic situation of Israeli hostages taken by Hamas, vowing that he would not cease until their return. This commitment to hostages certainly sounds noble, albeit it raises a curious question: how does one balance this heartfelt plea with the simultaneous promise to bomb away any presence of opposing forces? This theme of duality seemed to run rampant throughout the speech, painting ironically vivid images of resolutions stacked high next to conflict.

The idea of peace, too, found its way into his speech, although Netanyahu made sure to frame it alongside the need for ongoing conflict. He employed biblical terminology in speaking on the subject, perhaps hoping to infuse some divine validation into his case for perpetual hostilities. While many were likely left scratching their heads about how exactly one goes about achieving peace through continuous warfare, it’s fair to say that audiences were entertained if not informed.

Notably, there was no shortage of protest outside the UN building, where demonstrators sang songs of discontent and called for a ceasefire, creating a stark contrast to the prime minister's declarations. The volume outside the venue seemed to echo, humorously juxtaposed against Netanyahu's assertion that Israel yearns for peace. It appeared much like a scene straight out of a tragic comedy, where the intent to build bridges is illustrated by toppling blocks.

Randomly walking out diplomats during his speech further illustrated the chilly reception Netanyahu received. Perhaps their departure was their very own interpretation of 'choosing wisely'—but there’s plenty of room for debate on whether vacating the premises mid-speech qualifies as diplomatic protocol or just a tactical retreat. It’s also worth pondering what style of exit might prove most impactful in international relations: the slow diplomatic saunter or the brisk civilian dash.

In a genuinely ironic twist, he criticized the International Criminal Court—an institution designed to deliver impartial justice—while claiming Israel's military operations were the pinnacle of morality. It would seem that the idea of morality, at least in this narrative, is remarkably subjective, creating a situation where morality itself might soon file a grievance against being misrepresented.

Towards the end of his oration, Netanyahu issued a call for the UN to impose stricter sanctions on Iran, suggesting an abrupt shift from peace talks to dealing penalties—some people think diplomacy involves a nice dinner and a glass of wine; for others, it appears to involve sharper forms of enforcement. This leaves many to ponder just how exactly one maintains the image of a peace-loving nation while advocating for increased sanctions.

In the grand narrative of Netanyahu's address, one truth rings resoundingly clear: in the world of international relations, the choice between a 'blessing or a curse' often feels more like choosing between a cup of black coffee or the lingering bitterness of a cold brew. With each proclamation, it’s a delicate balancing act designed to placate his supporters while balancing on a tightrope of international expectation.