Netanyahu’s Defiant UN Speech Sparked Walkouts Amid Palestinian State Recognition

Tue Oct 14 2025 17:59:33 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a combative speech at the UN General Assembly criticizing the recent recognition of a Palestinian state, leading to a mass walkout by dignitaries amid protests outside.

During a volatile address at the UN General Assembly, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu railed against the recognition of a Palestinian state by several Western nations, characterizing the moves as a disgrace. His speech prompted dozens of officials to walk out in protest, while simultaneously, protests against Israel's military actions unfolded outside in Times Square. Amidst claims of genocide and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Netanyahu insisted on Israel's military actions and addressed the situation of hostages held by Hamas.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has attacked the recognition of a Palestinian State by multiple Western countries during a combative speech at the UN General Assembly.

Netanyahu labelled the recognition moves a mark of shame that sent the message murdering Jews pays off.

Dozens of officials staged a walk-out as he took to the podium, leaving large parts of the conference hall empty. Outside, protesters against Israel's war in Gaza gathered in Times Square.

Israel has come under huge international pressure over its military action in Gaza, culminating in the UK, France, Canada, Australia and other countries recognizing the State of Palestine this week.

Netanyahu opened with a map he called The Curse, showing Iranian proxy groups in the Middle East, and highlighted Israeli military operations against Hezbollah, the Houthis, Hamas, and Iran.

He thanked US President Donald Trump for American involvement in attacking Iran's nuclear site and drew parallels between Hamas’s 7 October attack on Israel and the 9/11 attacks in the US.

The Prime Minister refuted claims from a UN commission that Israel committed genocide, calling them baseless. He rejected allegations from UN agencies regarding the restriction of aid to Gaza.

Netanyahu's office arranged to broadcast his speech via loudspeakers near the Gaza perimeter, claiming the intention was to reach hostages. Meanwhile, international journalists faced restrictions in Gaza, complicating the verification of events.

Quoting Netanyahu, he assured hostages: We will not falter, and we will not rest until we bring all of you home. Currently, 48 hostages remain in Gaza, with 20 believed to be alive.

Netanyahu's speech also covered de-escalation efforts with Syria and called on Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah. However, he faced domestic criticism from political opposition, highlighting a feeling of desperation in his approach to diplomacy.

In a separate address, Donald Trump hinted at a potential ceasefire deal regarding Gaza, although specifics were not disclosed.

The conflict has led to significant casualties, with at least 65,549 reported deaths in Gaza since the onset of hostilities triggered by the October attacks.