Arafat Addresses UN General Assembly: 'I Come With Olive Branch and Freedom Fighter's Gun'
PLO chairman makes historic appearance at United Nations, marking Palestinian issue's elevation to international diplomatic stage.
NEW YORK - Yasser Arafat today became the first representative of a non-governmental organization to address the UN General Assembly plenary session, delivering a dramatic speech that culminated with his famous declaration: “I have come bearing an olive branch and a freedom fighter’s gun. Do not let the olive branch fall from my hand.”
Wearing his characteristic keffiyeh and military fatigues—with an empty holster after agreeing to leave his pistol outside—the PLO chairman spoke for nearly two hours to a packed assembly hall, presenting the Palestinian narrative to the world’s nations.
“The difference between the revolutionary and the terrorist lies in the reason for which each fights,” Arafat declared. “Whoever stands by a just cause cannot possibly be called a terrorist.”
The invitation to address the UN, approved by a vote of 105-4, marks a diplomatic triumph for the PLO following the October Arab summit’s recognition of it as “sole legitimate representative of the Palestinian people.”
Arafat traced Palestinian history from the British Mandate through the current occupation, condemning Zionism as a form of colonialism while extending an offer of coexistence: “Why should I not dream of a democratic state where Christian, Jew, and Muslim live in justice, equality, and fraternity?”
Israel’s UN delegation boycotted the speech, with Ambassador Yosef Tekoah later denouncing it as “the murderer of children who comes to the rostrum dripping with blood.” The US also criticized giving a platform to what it considers a terrorist organization.
The speech’s careful ambiguity—simultaneously militant and conciliatory—reflects PLO’s evolving strategy. While maintaining armed struggle rhetoric, Arafat signaled openness to political solutions, though stopping short of recognizing Israel.
“Today I appeal to you to help us transform the olive branch into a reality,” Arafat concluded, raising his arms dramatically. The assembly erupted in sustained applause from Third World and Arab delegations.
The appearance transforms Arafat from guerrilla leader to international statesman, though substantive progress remains elusive. The PLO gains global legitimacy while Israel becomes increasingly isolated diplomatically, setting new dynamics for the conflict’s future evolution.