Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to address the United Nations General Assembly in New York in late September, according to Danny Danon, Israel’s ambassador-designate to the UN.
Danon, who is set to present his credentials to UN Secretary-General António Guterres next week, confirmed that Netanyahu’s speech is planned for either September 26 or 27.
Danon, who has been preparing for the prime minister’s visit, emphasized the significance of Netanyahu’s address.
“We are preparing the ground for the visit of the prime minister,” Danon told the Jerusalem Post. “I believe he will arrive—we don’t know what will happen tomorrow in Israel—but the plans are that he will come and speak in front of the General Assembly.”
The upcoming General Assembly meeting is expected to be heavily focused on the Palestinian issue, an area where Netanyahu has consistently articulated Israel’s stance.
This speech will follow closely on the heels of Netanyahu’s recent high-profile address to a special joint session of the U.S. Congress, where he elaborated on Israel’s policies and international positioning.
Netanyahu’s address to the UN will be his first since October 7 of last year, when he last spoke before the assembly just weeks before a major escalation in violence.
During that speech, Netanyahu highlighted Israel’s proximity to a historic agreement with Saudi Arabia and used the platform to underscore the country’s strategic discussions with the United States.
The situation surrounding Netanyahu’s visit to New York remains fluid, with ongoing developments in Israel potentially impacting his travel plans.
Danon acknowledged the uncertainty, stating, “We are preparing for the visit, but the situation in Israel is dynamic, and we must remain flexible.”
The General Assembly’s focus on the Palestinian issue will likely set the stage for a significant diplomatic dialogue.
Netanyahu’s speech is anticipated to address key regional concerns and Israel’s perspective on the ongoing conflicts. The address will also be a chance for Netanyahu to reaffirm Israel’s position on the international stage.
The possibility of a meeting between Netanyahu and U.S. President Joe Biden during the UN visit is still under consideration.
The two leaders last met in Washington in July, following Netanyahu’s address to Congress. Whether Biden and Netanyahu will have the opportunity to confer again in New York remains uncertain.
Netanyahu’s upcoming speech is part of his broader diplomatic efforts to position Israel’s policies and strategic interests prominently on the global stage.
His regular appearances at the UN underscore the importance he places on international forums for advancing Israel’s diplomatic agenda and engaging with world leaders.