The incident occurred on September 24, 2026, during the 81st session of the UN General Assembly. According to reports from Reuters and Associated Press, dozens of delegates left the hall as Netanyahu began his speech. The walkout was seen as a significant diplomatic gesture, with many countries showing their disapproval of Israel's stance on various issues.
The number of countries that walked out during Netanyahu's speech was reported to be around 77. However, the significance of the incident lies not just in the number, but also in the context in which it occurred. The UN General Assembly has been a platform for countries to express their views on various issues, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Netanyahu's visit to New York was marked by controversy and security concerns. His plane was initially scheduled to land in New Jersey, but it was changed to Stewart International Airport in New York due to security reasons. The visit was also shortened, with Netanyahu not staying overnight in New York.
The incident at the UN General Assembly was not an isolated event. In 2024 and 2025, similar walkouts occurred during Netanyahu's speeches, where he defended Israel's actions in Gaza and attacked critics of his government's policies. The repeated occurrence of such incidents suggests a growing rift between Israel and the international community.
The UN General Assembly has been a platform for countries to express their views on various issues, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Recently, the Assembly adopted a resolution allowing the Palestinian president to participate in the general debate through a recorded speech, despite the Palestinian delegation being unable to attend in person.
The incident at the UN General Assembly highlights the challenges faced by Israel in the international arena. The country has been facing criticism for its actions in Gaza and its stance on the Palestinian issue. The walkout during Netanyahu's speech is seen as a reflection of the growing disapproval of Israel's policies.
The use of walkouts as a diplomatic gesture is not new at the UN General Assembly. In the past, similar incidents have occurred during speeches by various leaders, including Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi. The incident during Netanyahu's speech is seen as a continuation of this trend.
Key points
- The incident at the UN General Assembly highlights the growing rift between Israel and the international community.
- The use of walkouts as a diplomatic gesture is not new at the UN General Assembly.
- The incident during Netanyahu's speech is seen as a reflection of the growing disapproval of Israel's policies.
