Netanyahu's Speech at UN: Maps of 'The Curse' and 'The Blessing'

At the United Nations General Assembly, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu presented two maps representing the Middle East. In one hand, he held a black-colored map labeled “The Curse,” depicting Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Yemen, which he connected to Iran’s influence. In his other hand, the green-colored map, termed “The Blessing,” showed countries like Egypt, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, and India, reflecting allies or potential allies of Israel. However, Palestine was notably absent from both maps.

Focus on Iranian Influence

Netanyahu linked the black map to the destabilizing role of Iran, emphasizing that Tehran and its allies were behind conflicts in Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen. He highlighted Iran’s financial and military support to Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis as proof of its involvement in regional violence.

Allies in the Green Zone

Countries shown in green on Netanyahu’s map, including Egypt, Sudan, and Saudi Arabia, were described as either allies or potential allies, representing nations that had normalized relations with Israel or were in discussions to do so.

Warning to Iran

In his address, Netanyahu warned Iran, “If you strike us, we will strike you,” stating that Israel’s military presence extended across the Middle East. He justified Israel’s military actions in Lebanon and Gaza as necessary responses to Iranian aggression.

Diplomatic Walkouts

During Netanyahu’s speech, many diplomats left the assembly hall in protest of his remarks.

Saudi Arabia’s Complex Role

Netanyahu included Saudi Arabia in the “blessing” map, reflecting ongoing efforts, led by the Biden administration, to broker a normalization deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia. However, Saudi Arabia has maintained that any normalization would require the establishment of a Palestinian state, complicating the process amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.

Egypt’s Continued Cooperation

Egypt’s inclusion on the green map was not surprising given its long-standing peace treaty with Israel. Though the relationship has been strained, Egypt continues to play a key role in maintaining regional stability, especially concerning Gaza. Cooperation on energy and security has deepened, even as Egypt distances itself from Israel’s more aggressive tactics in Gaza.

Sudan’s Shift in Relations

Sudan, which signed the Abraham Accords in 2021, was also part of the “blessing” group. The accords, brokered by the US, marked a significant shift for Sudan, which had been hostile toward Israel for years. Normalizing relations with Israel has allowed Sudan to improve ties with the US and regional powers like the UAE.

India’s Strategic Partnership

India’s inclusion in the green zone reflected its growing strategic ties with Israel, especially in defense and technology. Though India has historically supported Palestinian self-determination, its relationship with Israel has strengthened under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership as part of broader geopolitical realignment.