Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Bağcı on Netanyahu’s Speech at the UN General Assembly: Insights into Israel’s Isolation and Global Divisions
During the Habertürk TV’s Akşam Haberleri program presented by Semiha Şahin on September 27, 2024, Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Bağcı, the co-founder of Ankara Global Advisory Group, shared his analysis of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's speech at the United Nations General Assembly. The speech, which sparked widespread protest, marked a significant turning point in Israel's international standing. Prof. Bağcı provided critical insights into the broader geopolitical ramifications of this event, focusing on Israel’s growing isolation and the global response to its policies.
Key Insights from Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Bağcı:
Unprecedented Protests in the UN's History: Prof. Bağcı highlighted that this is the first instance since the Cold War where such a mass protest occurred during a speech at the UN General Assembly. The walkout by numerous delegations represents a symbolic rejection of Netanyahu's policies, especially his defense of Israel's military actions. This protest, according to Bağcı, signifies an ideological shift, with many nations, particularly from the Global South, distancing themselves from Israel, thus isolating it further on the world stage.
Israel’s Diminishing Global Support: Netanyahu’s speech underscored the growing division between Israel and much of the international community. Bağcı pointed out that, while Israel retains strong backing from the United States and certain Western nations, many countries—particularly in Latin America, Africa, and the Muslim world—are increasingly critical of Israel’s actions. This divergence, he emphasized, highlights Israel’s declining influence outside of its traditional Western allies.
The Iran-Israel Conflict: Nuclear Stalemate: Addressing concerns about a potential Iran-Israel conflict, Bağcı stressed that while tensions remain high, the likelihood of a direct war is slim, given the catastrophic consequences of a nuclear confrontation. Both nations understand that any escalation would lead to regional devastation, making diplomacy the only viable option in the long term.
Israel Under the U.S. Nuclear Umbrella: A crucial point in Bağcı’s analysis was Netanyahu's reliance on the United States’ nuclear umbrella. He explained that Israel’s military and political strength stems from U.S. support, particularly the more than $150 billion in military aid and nuclear protection. This alliance, Bağcı noted, ensures that Israel remains secure, even as its global diplomatic relationships fracture.
The Role of Conscience in International Relations: Prof. Bağcı introduced the concept of conscience as a counterbalance to power politics, arguing that Netanyahu's speech failed to address the world’s moral concerns, especially regarding civilian casualties in Gaza and Lebanon. The walkout by UN delegations, he argued, was not merely a political statement but a reflection of the global community's moral rejection of Israel’s actions, marking a significant shift in the way Israel is perceived.
Comparisons to Historical Protests: Drawing parallels to past protests, such as the one faced by Iran’s Ahmadinejad, Bağcı noted that this event is unprecedented in Israel’s history. He explained that for the first time since its establishment in 1948, Israel—a nation often seen as a victim due to its post-Holocaust identity—is now being viewed as an aggressor. This shift in perception is crucial, as it alters Israel’s moral standing in the eyes of the international community.
Netanyahu’s Strategy of Military Dominance: Finally, Bağcı examined Netanyahu's strategy to maintain Israel's security by neutralizing threats through military means, particularly against Hamas and Hezbollah. However, he warned that this approach has led to widespread civilian displacement and suffering, further damaging Israel’s global image. Bağcı emphasized that while Israel aims to create "safe zones," the human cost of such policies cannot be ignored.
Conclusion: The World is Divided between those who Align with Israel and those who Vehemently Oppose its Actions
Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Bağcı highlighted that Netanyahu’s UN speech marks a critical turning point for Israel's global standing. While Israel continues to benefit from U.S. support, the Prime Minister’s defense of military actions and disregard for international law further isolates the country, particularly among the global south. Bağcı emphasized the importance of conscience in international relations, noting that Israel’s policies, especially toward civilians, are increasingly seen as unjustifiable. The world, he argued, is divided between those who align with Israel and those who vehemently oppose its actions. Bağcı’s analysis underscores the long-term risks of Israel's current path, predicting that its geopolitical isolation could deepen unless there is a significant shift in its approach to international law and humanitarian concerns.
Ankara Global Advisory Group is proud to continue offering thought leadership on key international issues, ensuring that global decision-makers are equipped with the knowledge they need to navigate complex security dynamics.
For a more detailed analysis from Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Bağcı and the latest developments in international relations, continue following updates from Ankara Global Advisory Group.