Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu used his address at the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday to commend Saudi Arabia for its growing ties with Israel, while issuing a stern warning to Iran over its nuclear ambitions.
In his speech, Netanyahu hailed the emerging alliance between Israel and Saudi Arabia, highlighting recent talks aimed at normalizing diplomatic relations. The Israeli Prime Minister underscored the potential for a “new Middle East” based on economic cooperation, technological collaboration, and mutual security interests.
“I stand here today confident that peace between Israel and Saudi Arabia is not only possible but within reach,” Netanyahu said, calling it a historic shift in the region. He emphasized that improved ties between the two nations could help foster broader stability in the Middle East.
However, while Netanyahu struck a hopeful tone regarding Saudi Arabia, his rhetoric took a harsher turn when addressing Iran. The Israeli leader accused Tehran of continuing its pursuit of nuclear weapons, despite international sanctions and agreements. Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s long-standing position that it would take all necessary steps to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear capability, warning of possible military action.
“Iran’s nuclear ambitions pose an existential threat to Israel and global security,” Netanyahu stated. “Israel will not stand idly by as Iran races toward a nuclear weapon. We will act, and we will act forcefully.”
The speech comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, with Saudi Arabia and Israel engaging in indirect negotiations brokered by the United States. Meanwhile, efforts to revive the 2015 Iran nuclear deal have stalled, and Israel remains one of the most vocal critics of any renewed agreement that allows Tehran to enrich uranium.
Netanyahu’s dual message of cooperation with Saudi Arabia and confrontation with Iran reflects Israel’s current strategic priorities. While the growing relationship with Riyadh marks a potential diplomatic breakthrough, the Israeli Prime Minister made it clear that Iran remains Israel’s most pressing security concern.
Saudi Arabia has not yet formally responded to Netanyahu’s speech, but observers note that the kingdom has been cautiously warming up to the idea of normalization with Israel, primarily driven by shared concerns over Iran’s regional influence. U.S. President Joe Biden has expressed support for the rapprochement, calling it a potential “game-changer” for peace in the Middle East.
Netanyahu’s address at the UN once again positioned Israel at the heart of the region’s shifting dynamics, balancing diplomacy with Riyadh while maintaining a hardline stance on Iran. The coming months will reveal whether these efforts bear fruit, or if rising tensions with Iran could escalate further.
