Delegates Walk Out as Netanyahu Defends Gaza War at UN General Assembly

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's speech at the United Nations General Assembly was met with significant protest as delegates from numerous countries walked out in response to his defense of Israel's military actions in Gaza.

“Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the UN General Assembly, defending his government's actions against Hamas and describing the siege of Gaza as an existential threat to Israel”

France 24

Netanyahu vowed to "finish the job" against Hamas, dismissing international calls for a ceasefire and rejecting accusations of genocide.

France 24

His speech was broadcast into Gaza, reportedly through loudspeakers and commandeered cell phones, as part of a psychological warfare tactic.

The walkout underscored the growing international isolation of Israel amid widespread condemnation of its military offensive, which has resulted in tens of thousands of Palestinian deaths and massive displacement.

The international community's reaction to Netanyahu's speech was polarized, with some delegates applauding while others staged a walkout.

The speech included a QR code linking to information about Hamas's October 7 attacks and was part of a broader public diplomacy campaign by Israel to justify its military actions.

BBC

Netanyahu condemned recent recognitions of Palestinian statehood by several countries, arguing that such moves encourage terrorism.

The speech highlighted the deep divisions within the UN, as countries like the UK, France, and Canada have recognized Palestinian statehood, further isolating Israel diplomatically.

Netanyahu's speech at the UN General Assembly defended Israel's military actions and condemned international efforts to recognize Palestinian statehood.

“• Scores of delegateswalked out in protestbefore Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gave a speech today at the UN General Assembly”

CNN

He accused countries supporting Palestinian recognition of encouraging terrorism and dismissed the two-state solution as 'national suicide' for Israel.

The speech was part of a broader Israeli effort to counter growing international criticism and isolation.

This was evident in the walkouts and protests during his address.

Netanyahu's rhetoric aimed to rally support from Israel's allies while rejecting the increasing global recognition of Palestinian statehood.

The walkout during Netanyahu's speech was a significant diplomatic rebuke, highlighting Israel's growing international isolation.

Many delegates, particularly from Arab, Muslim, African, and some European nations, left the assembly in protest of Israel's military actions in Gaza, which have been widely condemned as genocidal.

Time Magazine

The walkout was a powerful statement against Israel's policies and underscored the deep divisions within the international community regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Despite the walkout, Netanyahu remained defiant, continuing to justify Israel's actions as necessary for its security.