Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a speech at the United Nations General Assembly on Friday, using two symbolic maps to contrast the region’s powers. One map, labeled "The Curse," featured Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Yemen painted in black to represent their hostile stance toward Israel. In contrast, the second map, titled "The Blessing," highlighted nations like Egypt, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, and India in green, representing countries with whom Israel has normalized or is pursuing closer ties.

Most notable in Netanyahu's presentation was the conspicuous absence of Palestine from either map. Its omission underscored Israel’s refusal to acknowledge Palestinian sovereignty, reinforcing Netanyahu’s broader narrative of aligning with certain Middle Eastern nations while portraying Iran as the primary destabilizing force in the region.

Netanyahu attributed much of the region’s violence to Iran, accusing it of fueling conflicts in Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen through its support for Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis. In his remarks, he issued a stern warning to Tehran: "If you strike us, we will strike you," asserting Israel's readiness to defend itself.

The leaders of countries highlighted in green, like Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Sudan, have complex relationships with Israel. Saudi Arabia, for example, has recently been part of U.S.-led talks about normalizing relations with Israel, contingent upon certain concessions for the Palestinian cause. Egypt, while maintaining a peace treaty with Israel since 1979, has played a crucial role in mediating regional stability, particularly in Gaza. Meanwhile, Sudan, after signing the Abraham Accords in 2021, has shifted toward closer ties with Israel. India, also marked in green, has developed a deeper partnership with Israel, particularly in defense and technology, while maintaining its historical stance on Palestinian self-determination.

Netanyahu’s address comes at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East, underscoring Israel’s strategic alliances and ongoing conflicts in the region.