Benjamin Netanyahu struck a defiant tone in his speech to the United Nations General Assembly, vowing to continue Israel’s war in Gaza until Hamas is destroyed and slamming Western countries that recognized Palestinian statehood in recent days.

“We will not commit national suicide because you don’t have the guts to face down a hostile media and anti-Semitic mobs demanding Israel’s blood,” the prime minister said in New York on Friday, referring to the recognition of Palestine by France, the U.K., Canada and others. The message to Hamas, Netanyahu said, was that “murdering Jews pays off.”

Many delegates walked out as Netanyahu prepared to speak, leaving the hall largely empty.

Israel’s longest serving leader cited the country’s military successes over Iran-backed militias and Tehran itse

See Full Page