In his address to the UN General Assembly on September 27, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu presented two maps that depicted all the territory, including the West Bank and Gaza Strip, as part of Israel, without acknowledging their separate identities. While holding the maps, Netanyahu stated that the world must choose between a “blessing” and a “curse.”
Speaking at the UN General Assembly today, Netanyahu showed a map of the planned IMEC, says
India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) economic corridor is a boon. It will be a blessing in the future.
Iran-Iraq-Syria-Lebanon is a curse to the world. pic.twitter.com/J9H0vT7IyL
— Megh Updates 🚨™ (@MeghUpdates) September 27, 2024
The first map illustrated Israel’s potential Arab allies in the region, while the second depicted Iran and its allies, with both maps excluding Gaza and the West Bank.
In his address, Netanyahu emphasised that one of the maps he presented represents a “blessing” for the region, showcasing Israel and its Arab partners as key players in a transformative economic initiative. He described this vision as a land bridge connecting Asia and Europe, spanning from the Indian Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea. This corridor, he stated, would be equipped with rail lines, energy pipelines, and fibre optic cables, facilitating not just trade but also technological and energy cooperation. Netanyahu asserted that this project aims to enhance the quality of life for 2 billion people, fostering prosperity and stability across the region and highlighting the potential for collaborative growth amidst ongoing challenges.
Netanyahu delivered a stark warning to Iran, stating, “I have a message for Tehran: if you strike us, we will strike you.” He emphasised, “There is no place in Iran that the long arm of Israel cannot reach, and this applies to the entire Middle East.” He condemned the world for “appeasing Iran for too long,” asserting that such appeasement “must end now.”
He reiterated Israel’s commitment to ongoing military operations in Gaza, where over 41,000 Palestinians have been killed since last October, insisting that Hamas must “surrender, lay down its arms, and release all the hostages.”
The Israeli leader emphasised that Hamas should not have a role in post-war Gaza, calling it “inconceivable and ridiculous” for the group to be involved in the enclave’s future. He expressed support for establishing a peaceful civilian governance in Gaza, stating, “We are ready to work with regional and other partners to support a local civilian administration in Gaza.”
Netanyahu also declared the ongoing military operations in Lebanon, where extensive airstrikes have resulted in hundreds of casualties this week. He stated, “I’ve come here today to say enough is enough. We won’t rest until our citizens can return safely to their homes.”
He reiterated that “as long as Hezbollah chooses the path of war, Israel has no choice, and we have every right to eliminate this threat and ensure the safety of our citizens.” He added, “We will continue to degrade Hezbollah until all our objectives are met.” In his speech, Netanyahu also condemned Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, accusing him of waging a “diplomatic war” against Israel. As Netanyahu addressed the assembly, a significant number of delegates, including those from Türkiye, exited the hall.
