NEW YORK — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the United Nations General Assembly that many world leaders who publicly criticise Israel’s war in Gaza privately express gratitude for its actions and intelligence support.

Addressing the assembly, Netanyahu argued that traditional allies such as the United Kingdom, France, Australia and Canada had turned against Israel by recognising a Palestinian state, while other governments have joined widespread calls for a ceasefire. He dismissed such moves as “empty posturing.”

“You know deep down that Israel is fighting your fight,” Netanyahu said, addressing fellow UN member states. “Behind closed doors, many of the leaders who publicly condemn us, privately thank us.”

Netanyahu added that these leaders acknowledge the value of Israel’s intelligence services, which he claimed had repeatedly helped foil terrorist plots in foreign capitals and saved “countless lives.”