Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the UNGA, showcasing two maps: one portraying India as a “Blessing” and the other depicting Iran as a “Curse.” He called for sanctions against Iran, warning that Israel would retaliate if attacked, and labeled Iran’s actions as a threat to regional security.
During his address to the United Nations General Assembly, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu presented two maps symbolizing differing geopolitical perspectives: one depicting India as a “Blessing” and the other illustrating Iran as a “Curse.” The Prime Minister emphasized the urgency for sanctions against Iran, cautioning that Israel would retaliate if provoked. The first map, labeled “Blessing,” illustrated a strategic vision of collaboration between Israel and its regional Arab partners, connecting Asia and Europe through a proposed land corridor linking the Indian Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Conversely, the second map, termed “Curse,” represented what Netanyahu described as an “arc of terror” orchestrated by Iran, stretching from the Indian Ocean to the Mediterranean. This map included controversial claims marking Palestinian territories, such as the West Bank, Gaza, and Syria’s Golan Heights, as part of Israel. In his speech, Netanyahu articulated a call for global action, urging nations to unite against Iranian influence and its nuclear ambitions. He stated, “For too long the world has appeased Iran, it turns a blind eye to its internal repression, it turns a blind eye to external aggression. That appeasement must end and that appeasement must end now.” He also addressed Iran’s backing of Hezbollah and reiterated Israel’s commitment to strike back against Tehran, warning, “If you strike us, we will strike you. There is no place in Iran where the long arm of Israel cannot reach. And that is true for the entire Middle East.”
The escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, particularly following the assassination of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in July, have drawn significant international scrutiny. Prime Minister Netanyahu’s remarks at the UNGA highlight Israel’s ongoing concerns regarding Iranian support for militant groups such as Hezbollah and Iran’s broader ambitions in the Middle East. The use of maps in his address serves as a visual representation of the contrasting narratives surrounding Israel’s relations with its neighbors, particularly framing the issues of regional security and alliances.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address at the United Nations General Assembly underscored the critical dynamics of Israeli-Iranian relations. Through the use of symbolic maps, he urged the international community to reconsider its stance on Iran, advocating for unified sanctions while asserting Israel’s readiness to respond to aggression. As tensions remain high in the region, these developments will likely continue to shape diplomatic discussions and security policies moving forward.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
