Palestinian Statehood Now ‘Insane,’ Says Netanyahu, as 157 Nations Disagree

In a stark disconnect with global opinion, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared the idea of Palestinian statehood “insane,” even as the number of UN member states recognizing Palestine climbed to 157. His speech at the General Assembly highlighted a position increasingly at odds with the world.
“It’s sheer madness, and we won’t do it,” he said, referring to a two-state solution. His comments were a direct jab at allies like the UK, France, and Canada, who recently joined the overwhelming majority of nations in recognizing Palestine. A mass walkout by over 100 diplomats underscored the disagreement.
Netanyahu argued that recognizing Palestine after the October 7 attacks would be like rewarding al-Qaeda after 9/11. This framing, however, failed to persuade the delegations that left the room in protest.
He coupled his political rejection with a military vow to “finish the job” in Gaza, promising to hunt down the last remnants of Hamas. The speech firmly positioned him against the dual-track approach of a ceasefire and a political settlement favored by most of the world.