Netanyahu's Maps at UN General Assembly Stir Controversy, Erase Palestine

At the United Nations General Assembly, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu showcased two maps representing the Middle East, which starkly excluded any mention of Palestine. One map labeled “The Curse” included countries influenced by Iran, such as Iraq and Syria, while another, titled “The Blessing,” showed Israel’s allies, including Egypt, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, and even India. The omission of Palestine drew sharp criticism from global diplomats, several of whom staged a walkout in protest during Netanyahu’s speech.

Netanyahu used the maps to illustrate the geopolitical shift Israel believes is underway, particularly with Saudi Arabia and other Arab nations that have normalized ties with Israel or are moving in that direction. He pointed to Iran as the root cause of the region’s instability, accusing it of supporting militant groups such as Hezbollah and Hamas. Netanyahu argued that Israel’s military actions in Lebanon and Gaza were necessary to counter these threats.

As tensions with Hezbollah continue to flare, Netanyahu’s speech served to reinforce Israel’s stance on defending its borders. However, critics argue that his exclusion of Palestine from the narrative undermines efforts to achieve lasting peace. The war with Hamas has also strained diplomatic negotiations with Saudi Arabia, despite Netanyahu’s optimistic tone.