Overview

• Benjamin Netanyahu told the UN Israel aims to finish operations in Gaza quickly, faced walkouts and protests in the hall, and wore a QR-code pin linking to a site documenting the October 7 attacks.
• Israeli authorities transmitted Netanyahu’s speech across Gaza via IDF loudspeakers and reportedly by SMS, drawing domestic criticism over operational risks and a rebuke from opposition leader Yair Lapid.
• Italian President Sergio Mattarella appealed to the Global Sumud Flotilla to transfer its aid through the Latin Patriarchate via Cyprus for safe delivery, after consulting Premier Giorgia Meloni.
• Flotilla organizers refused the proposal and said they will continue toward Gaza from the area of Crete despite safety warnings, citing a mission to challenge the blockade and reporting a recent drone incident in international waters.
• Italy’s foreign ministry cautioned participants they proceed at their own risk as Navy frigate Alpino shadowed the flotilla, and a separate pro‑Palestinian flotilla announced a Saturday 17:00 departure from Catania.