Israel prevented genocide, Netanyahu says in defense of country’s actions

UNITED NATIONS – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu mounted a forceful defense of Israel’s actions in the region at the U.N. on Thursday, seeking to counter growing international isolation ahead of elections he could lose, as dozens of delegates streamed out. The walkout underscored the competing pressures facing Netanyahu, who is battling mounting criticism abroad over the Gaza war while campaigning for reelection at home ahead of an Oct. 27 vote. The divisions over Israel’s conduct were on display as Netanyahu began speaking, with dozens of delegates walking out in protest.

He called them “moral cowards,” while supporters in the gallery chanted in Hebrew: “The people of Israel live.”