Delegates stage mass walkout during Netanyahu’s UNGA speech: Video
Delegates from more than 50 countries walked out of the United Nations General Assembly on Friday as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took the podium, in a defiant protest against his government’s ongoing war in Gaza.
The mass exit left the hall nearly empty at the start of Netanyahu’s remarks, signalling mounting international frustration over Israel’s rejection of a two-state solution and its continued military offensive against Hamas.
In his address, Netanyahu defiantly ruled out the creation of a Palestinian state, saying Israel “will not commit national suicide.”
He also condemned recent decisions by several governments to recognise Palestinian statehood, calling the moves a “mark of shame.”
The Israeli leader also vowed to press ahead with military operations in Gaza until Hamas is, in his words, “finished.” He read aloud the names of hostages still held in the enclave and said loudspeakers had broadcast his message into Gaza to reassure them.
Netanyahu used much of his speech to cast blame on critics abroad, accusing world leaders of faltering in their support for Israel as the war dragged on. He claimed Israel was fighting a “seven-front war” with minimal assistance from its allies.
His remarks come after France, Britain, Canada and several other nations formally recognised Palestine this week, adding momentum to calls for a negotiated two-state settlement. The Israeli premier has rejected that path, insisting that such recognition rewards Hamas.
The speech also took place under the shadow of war crimes allegations levelled against Netanyahu by the International Criminal Court, as well as genocide findings by an independent UN inquiry commission.
Despite the boycott, Netanyahu is set to continue a busy diplomatic schedule. He is expected to meet US President Donald Trump in Washington on Monday, where the two leaders will discuss regional security and Israel’s military campaign.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
