Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faced a mass walkout by UN delegates during his General Assembly address, where he defended a recent strike on Iran as 'one of the easiest decisions' and rejected accusations of genocide in Gaza. The coordinated protest, encouraged by the Palestinian Mission, highlighted deep global divisions over Israel's actions.
Netanyahu's Defiant Address and the Walkout
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a defiant address to the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday, defending Israel’s military actions against Iran and Hamas while dozens of delegates staged a coordinated walkout in protest.
Key developments:
- Netanyahu’s speech was marked by a mass walkout of delegates as he began speaking, with many leaving the chamber before he took the podium. He responded by calling the departing delegates “moral cowards.”
- Netanyahu praised U.S. President Donald Trump for his support of Israel, stating that the two countries had acted together to confront threats posed by Iran. He described Trump as “no greater partner” in Israel’s security efforts.
Defense of Military Actions
Netanyahu framed Israel’s strike on Iran as “one of the easiest decisions I’ve ever had to make,” asserting that the operation was necessary to prevent broader regional threats. He also rejected accusations of genocide in Gaza, calling such claims “the greatest lie of the century.”
To counter genocide allegations, Netanyahu cited Israel’s efforts to mitigate civilian harm in Gaza, including warning civilians via text messages, phone calls, and leaflets, as well as facilitating the delivery of 2 million tons of food and 1 million polio vaccinations into the enclave. He quoted Col. John Spencer of West Point, who argued that Israel had taken unprecedented steps to protect civilians compared to other militaries in history.
Criticism of International Figures
Netanyahu directly attacked critics, including New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, accusing them of spreading “lies about my country.” He also defended Israeli settlers in the West Bank, describing them as “a handful of young juvenile delinquents” responsible for isolated acts of violence, such as stone-throwing and tree-cutting.
International Reactions and Accusations
The United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry has previously accused Israel of genocide in Gaza, stating that there is “clear intent to destroy the Palestinians in Gaza.” Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, speaking via video link after being denied a U.S. entry visa, described Israeli policies as “a genocidal war” and warned of threats to the two-state solution due to settlement expansion.
European leaders have recently sanctioned Israeli settlements in the West Bank following a sharp rise in settler violence, a move Netanyahu condemned as “choosing to succumb to antisemitic mobs.” Outside the U.N. headquarters, pro-Palestinian protesters rallied, with some chanting slogans such as “Gaza, Gaza, you will rise.”
Domestic Political Context
Netanyahu’s speech came as he faces contested reelection prospects in Israel and increasing international isolation. His address appeared directed at Israeli voters as much as global leaders, with a focus on portraying Israel as defending civilization against barbarian threats.
The Walkout as a Symbolic Protest
The coordinated walkout was encouraged by the Palestinian Mission to the U.N., which urged member states to fill the chamber and then leave collectively when Netanyahu took the podium. General Assembly President Khalilur Rahman repeatedly called for order as delegates departed, leaving a largely empty hall during the speech.
Netanyahu responded to the walkout by inviting remaining delegates to leave, stating: “If there are any other moral cowards who haven’t left the hall, please do so now.” He framed the absence of diplomats as proof of moral failure among critics rather than a sign of Israel’s isolation.
Settlements and Colonialism Accusations
Netanyahu rejected accusations of Israeli colonialism in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, calling such claims “another lie.” He argued that Israel’s critics, including leaders from Britain and France, lacked moral standing given their countries’ colonial histories.
Humanitarian Concerns in Gaza
The U.N. and human rights groups have documented severe humanitarian conditions in Gaza, including starvation risks and destruction of infrastructure. Only a small fraction of the funds needed for Gaza’s reconstruction has been collected, according to a top European Union official.
Hamas's Stance
Hamas has indicated willingness to move forward on a Gaza peace agreement, though no concrete steps have been confirmed. The group remains a designated terrorist organization by Israel, the U.S., and other nations.
Protests and Arrests
Outside the U.N., Actress Susan Sarandon was among those arrested during a protest in solidarity with Palestinians. The demonstration underscored the growing public opposition to Israel’s military actions in Gaza and the West Bank.
Conclusion: Deep Divisions on Display
Netanyahu’s speech highlighted the deep divisions over Israel’s military campaigns, with critics accusing the government of war crimes and genocide, while Israel frames its actions as necessary self-defense. The walkout by dozens of delegates underscored the global polarization surrounding the conflict, with both sides using the moment to reinforce their narratives.