Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to speak at the United Nations General Assembly on Friday, facing significant international criticism and pressure regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza. His address comes after numerous world leaders condemned him as a war criminal during the assembly's current session in New York.

Before leaving Tel Aviv, Netanyahu expressed his intent to confront those nations that have recognized an independent Palestinian state. "I will condemn those leaders who, instead of denouncing the murderers, rapists, and child burners, want to give them a state in the heart of the land of Israel," he stated.

Israel's ambassador to the U.N., Danny Danon, emphasized the importance of Netanyahu's speech, asserting that it would clarify Israel's position. "This is an important visit for the State of Israel, especially at this point in time, when over the U.N. podium one hears too many false voices," Danon said.

Netanyahu's visit is expected to be met with protests, particularly from families of hostages held in Gaza. They plan to demonstrate outside U.N. headquarters, urging leaders to prioritize the release of the captives.

The Israeli leader's arrival in New York comes amid growing isolation for Israel at the U.N. Qatar's Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, labeled Israel a "rogue government" during his speech, condemning an Israeli airstrike on Hamas leadership in Doha as a "treacherous attack."

U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres criticized the war in Gaza, stating, "The scale of death and destruction are beyond any other conflict in my years as secretary-general." He condemned both the Hamas attacks on October 7 and the collective punishment of the Palestinian people, urging Israel to comply with provisional measures from the International Court of Justice to prevent genocide in Gaza.

Netanyahu's government has long claimed that the U.N. is biased against Israel and has denied any violations of international law. However, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu, which may have influenced his travel plans. Reports indicate that his flight to New York took an indirect route, avoiding airspace of countries that could enforce the warrant.

While in the U.S., Netanyahu is also scheduled to meet with President Donald Trump in Washington. This meeting marks their fourth face-to-face encounter since Trump returned to the White House. U.S. and Israeli officials expect discussions to focus on Israel's potential responses to the growing recognition of a Palestinian state at the U.N.

Despite their close alliance, the two leaders have diverging views on certain issues. Trump has made it clear that he will not allow Israel to annex the West Bank, stating, "I will not allow Israel to annex the West Bank. Nope, I will not allow it."

Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas addressed the General Assembly via video on Thursday, calling for more international support for Palestinian statehood. He stated, "The time has come for the international community to do right by the Palestinian people" and help them achieve their rights.

The backdrop of Netanyahu's speech is marked by a significant escalation in the conflict, with over 65,000 Palestinians reported killed in Gaza and 90 percent of the population displaced. The international community remains divided, with more than 150 countries recognizing a Palestinian state, while the U.S. continues to support Israel.