NEW YORK. Sept 24, 2025 – In a powerful and controversial address at the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, Chilean President Gabriel Boric demanded that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu be brought before an international court for alleged genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, drawing a stark comparison to the Holocaust. The speech, delivered just months before Boric’s term ends in March 2026, has ignited global debate and highlighted Chile’s unique stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict, given its large Palestinian diaspora.
“At this point, I no longer know what to say about Gaza, because many have said it all from this podium and others,” Boric began, his voice heavy with emotion. “But above our words… the dead stares of those who, being innocent, have lost their lives, still resonate.” He then made a direct comparison: “Today, in 2025, thousands of innocent human beings are losing their lives just for being Palestinians, just as millions lost theirs 80 years ago just for being Jewish.”
Boric’s remarks, which called for Netanyahu and others responsible for the situation in Gaza to face the International Court of Justice (ICJ) or other international tribunals, have been met with both applause and condemnation. “I don’t want to see Netanyahu destroyed by a missile along with his family. I want to see Netanyahu and those responsible for the genocide against the Palestinian people brought before an international court of justice,” he stated, echoing sentiments from his earlier comments on the conflict.
The speech underscores Chile’s significant Palestinian community, estimated at around 600,000— the largest outside the Middle East and the Americas, with many being Christian Palestinians. This demographic reality challenges common narratives about the conflict, as Boric’s stance reflects a broader sentiment within Chile.
Boric’s address marks his final appearance at the UN before the November 2025 presidential elections, where his successor will be chosen amidst shifting domestic politics. His approval ratings have waned, and the right-wing opposition has gained ground, but his foreign policy on Palestine has resonated with a significant portion of the Chilean public.
The international reaction has been mixed, with some praising Boric’s moral stance and others criticizing the Holocaust comparison as inflammatory. As the global community grapples with the ongoing crisis in Gaza, Boric’s words have added a new layer to the discourse, challenging world leaders to confront the humanitarian dimensions of the conflict. The coming months will likely see increased scrutiny on Chile’s role in international diplomacy as it transitions to a new administration.