Benjamin Netanyahu Faces Walkout At UNGA, Diplomats Leave Hall During Speech

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday delivered his address at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, but his speech was overshadowed by a dramatic walkout. As soon as Netanyahu took the stage, the majority of diplomats present in the chamber left, leaving the hall nearly empty.

The video of the walkout quickly circulated across social media platforms, drawing widespread attention. The protest came at a time when Netanyahu and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are facing mounting accusations of "genocide" over Israel's ongoing offensive in Gaza. According to reports, more than 60,000 Palestinians have been killed since October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched its cross-border attack that left more than 1,200 Israelis dead and hundreds taken hostage.

Since the Hamas assault and Israel's subsequent invasion of Gaza, several attempts at negotiating a ceasefire and securing the release of hostages have failed. The talks completely collapsed earlier this month after the IDF targeted Qatar while pursuing Hamas leaders during ongoing peace efforts.

What Netanyahu Said in His Speech

During his UNGA address, Netanyahu revisited the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack, stressing that the world may have forgotten, but Israel has not. "Much of the world no longer remembers October 7. But we remember," he said.

He criticized global leaders, accusing them of "appeasing evil rather than supporting Israel," and claimed that many of those who condemn Israel publicly express support privately. Referring to the recognition of a Palestinian state by some leaders this week, Netanyahu said it sent the message that "murdering Jews pays off," warning that such actions would "encourage terrorism against Jews, innocent people everywhere."

In a strong message directed at Western nations, Netanyahu declared: "Israel will not allow you to shove a terror state down our throats."