Netanyahu Blasts Western Recognition of Palestinian State as “Reward for Killing Jews”
At the UN, Netanyahu said Western recognition of a Palestinian state after the Hamas attacks “rewards terror,” sparking global controversy.
Raja Awais Ali
9/26/20251 min read
Netanyahu Condemns Western Recognition of Palestinian State as “Reward for Killing Jews”
New York, 26 September 2025 — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu used his address to the United Nations General Assembly to sharply criticize Western governments that recently recognized a Palestinian state.
Netanyahu argued that the decisions by France, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and others to grant unconditional recognition of Palestinian statehood send “a dangerous and shameful message that murdering Jews pays off.”
Referring to the 7 October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel, he said:
“These recognitions came after the atrocities of October 7 — atrocities that, Netanyahu claimed, nearly 90 percent of Palestinians praised that day. Such moves reward terror and encourage more violence.”
The prime minister warned that these recognitions would embolden extremists and undermine prospects for lasting peace.
“This is not the path to stability. It is a signal to terrorists that violence yields political dividends,” he declared.
Netanyahu also reaffirmed that Israel would continue military operations in Gaza until “the mission against Hamas is complete,” stressing that the Israel Defense Forces aim to protect civilians but will not bow to international pressure that jeopardizes national security.
His remarks prompted walkouts by several delegations in the General Assembly chamber. Diplomats who left said the speech inflamed tensions instead of fostering dialogue.
Palestinian leaders and Hamas officials quickly condemned Netanyahu’s statement, accusing him of distorting facts and rejecting Palestinians’ legitimate right to self-determination. They urged the international community to remain committed to a two-state solution despite Israeli objections.
Analysts noted that Netanyahu’s combative tone could strain Israel’s ties with Western allies, who insist their recognition of Palestinian statehood is aimed at advancing peace, not rewarding violence.
Netanyahu concluded his speech with a pledge:
“Peace in the Middle East will only be possible when terrorism is completely defeated.”
This speech highlights the growing rift between Israel and several of its closest allies over how to achieve a lasting settlement to the decades-long conflict.