Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu drew a stark comparison between the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack and the September 11 attacks in the US, saying the assault was equivalent to “16 9/11s” when measured against Israel’s population.
Speaking before the United Nations General Assembly, Netanyahu said around 1,200 Israelis were killed and 251 people were taken hostage in the Hamas-led attack.
His comments came as Israel faces mounting international criticism over its military campaign in Gaza, with several world leaders accusing the Israeli government of genocide against Palestinians. “In fact, I want you to know that many of their leaders even thank us privately for taking out Iran’s nukes. Israel continues to control large parts of the territory and maintains military operations there.
At least 73,922 Palestinians have been killed in Israel’s subsequent offensive, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. Earlier reporting noted: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack was, in proportionate terms, equivalent to 16 September 11 attacks in the United States. Earlier reporting noted: Recalling the attack, Netanyahu said Hamas militants had killed about 1,200 people in Israel, including civilians, and abducted 251 others.
“In defending itself, Israel is also defending many of the countries whose delegates just left this hall,” Netanyahu said. Netanyahu described those responsible as a “handful of young juvenile delinquents” and sought to distance his government from vigilantism. He rejected the allegations, calling Israeli genocide claims “the biggest lie of the century”.
Earlier reporting noted: Netanyahu’s remarks came after days of speeches from world leaders condemning Israel’s war in Gaza and accusing his government of genocide against Palestinians.
Netanyahu thanked US President Donald Trump for his actions against Iran.
He also defended Israel’s military action against Iran, describing the decision to strike Tehran as “one of the easiest decisions I’ve ever had to make”.
