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Dozens of delegates walked out of the UN General Assembly as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu began his address, marking another protest during his annual UN appearance.
Mariyam Adheela
Palestinian delegates leaving the chamber -- Photo: Reuters
New York: Dozens of delegates walked out of the United Nations General Assembly hall on Thursday as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu began his address, in a protest linked to Israel’s military actions in the Palestinian territories.
The Palestinian Mission had called on UN member states to leave the chamber as Netanyahu began speaking. Delegates from numerous countries subsequently exited the hall, leaving large sections of the chamber empty.
The walkout took place amid continued international criticism over Israel’s military campaign in Gaza and the humanitarian situation facing Palestinians.
Netanyahu continued his speech and criticised those who left, calling them “moral cowards.”
The protest was not the first time delegates have left during Netanyahu’s UN address. Diplomats staged a walkout during his 2025 speech, while delegates also walked out during his 2024 address as Israel’s war in Gaza continued.
This year’s protest again placed the Palestinian issue at the centre of Netanyahu’s appearance, as Palestinian officials and supporters continued to raise concerns over the war, civilian deaths and humanitarian conditions in Gaza.
