Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly condemned South Africa’s accusation against Israel of committing genocide in Gaza during his statement on Thursday. Netanyahu asserted that the claims presented to the UN’s top court were based on hypocrisy and lies, characterizing the situation as an upside-down world where Israel, in his view, fights against terrorism and defends itself from grave threats.
Netanyahu, addressing the United Nations, expressed his frustration with what he deemed a distorted narrative. He stated, “We are fighting terrorists, we are fighting lies. Today we saw an upside-down world. Israel is accused of genocide while it is fighting against genocide.” The Israeli Prime Minister emphasized the challenges of combating terrorism and the importance of countering false accusations.
In defending Israel’s actions, Netanyahu highlighted the brutal nature of the terrorist activities faced by the country. He stated, “Israel is fighting murderous terrorists who carried out crimes against humanity: They slaughtered, they raped, they burned, they dismembered, they beheaded – children, women, elderly, young men and women.” The Prime Minister aimed to underscore the severity of the threats faced by Israel and the necessity of responding to heinous crimes perpetrated by terrorists.
Netanyahu criticized South Africa’s accusation of genocide against Israel, asserting that it was an act of hypocrisy. He questioned the stance of South Africa, particularly in light of conflicts in Syria and Yemen, where millions suffered and were displaced. Netanyahu argued, “Where was South Africa when millions of people were killed or torn from their homes in Syria and Yemen, by whom? By partners of Hamas.” The statement was a direct challenge to the consistency of South Africa’s position and its selective focus on Israel.
Asserting Israel’s right to self-defense, Netanyahu declared that the country would continue to defend itself until achieving “total victory.” This statement reinforces Israel’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens from the threats posed by terrorist activities. The Prime Minister’s words also reflect the ongoing challenges faced by Israel in the context of regional conflicts and the need for a robust defense strategy.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s response to South Africa’s accusation of genocide against Israel underscores the deep divisions and complex narratives surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Netanyahu vehemently rejected the charges, labeling them as hypocrisy and lies presented to the international community. As Israel continues to grapple with security concerns and combat terrorism, the Prime Minister emphasizes the imperative of self-defense, portraying the accusations as a distortion of the realities on the ground. The international response to such conflicting narratives remains a crucial aspect of addressing the complexities of the Middle East conflict.
