Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to address the United Nations General Assembly on Friday, facing significant international pressure regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza. His speech comes as accusations of war crimes mount against Israel, and several countries have recently recognized an independent Palestinian state.

Netanyahu's annual address is typically a focal point for global attention, often marked by protests and strong rhetoric. This year, however, the stakes are particularly high. In recent days, nations including Australia, Canada, France, and the United Kingdom have announced their recognition of Palestinian statehood. Additionally, the European Union is contemplating tariffs and sanctions against Israel. A non-binding resolution passed by the assembly this month urged Israel to commit to the establishment of an independent Palestinian nation, a proposal Netanyahu has dismissed as unacceptable.

The International Criminal Court has issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu, accusing him of crimes against humanity, which he denies. Furthermore, the UN's highest court is currently reviewing allegations from South Africa that Israel has committed genocide in Gaza, a claim Israel strongly refutes.

As he prepared to depart for New York, Netanyahu expressed determination. "I will tell our truth," he stated. "I will condemn those leaders who, instead of condemning the murderers, rapists, and burners of children, want to give them a state in the heart of Israel."

The international community has reacted strongly to the conflict, particularly following the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas militants that resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people in Israel and the abduction of 251 individuals. Many nations have called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and an increase in humanitarian aid. According to local health officials, Israel's military operations have resulted in over 65,000 Palestinian deaths and displaced 90 percent of Gaza's population, with many facing starvation.

While more than 150 countries recognize a Palestinian state, the United States has not, continuing to provide robust support for Israel. However, President Donald Trump indicated that there are limits to this support, stating he would not allow Israel to annex the occupied West Bank. Although Israel has not announced plans for annexation, some members of Netanyahu's government have advocated for it. Recently, officials approved a controversial settlement project that critics argue could jeopardize the prospects for a Palestinian state.

Netanyahu is expected to meet with Trump during his visit to the UN. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas addressed the General Assembly via video on Thursday, as the U.S. denied him a visa. He welcomed the recent recognitions of Palestinian statehood but urged the international community to take further action. "The time has come for the international community to do right by the Palestinian people," he said, emphasizing the need for support in achieving their rights and ending the occupation.

Abbas leads the Palestinian Authority, which governs parts of the West Bank. Hamas, which won legislative elections in Gaza in 2006, took control from Abbas's forces the following year. The Palestinians seek to establish a state encompassing the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza, a goal that has been supported by the international community for decades. Netanyahu, however, opposes the creation of a Palestinian state, arguing it would reward Hamas. "This will not happen," he asserted before his departure.