NEW YORK: Dozens of delegates walked out of the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a forceful defence of Israel’s military actions in the region.
The walkout came as several hundred protesters gathered outside the UN headquarters in New York, reflecting growing criticism of Israel’s conduct in the Gaza conflict. Netanyahu rejected allegations that Israel had committed genocide in Gaza and said Israel had acted to prevent genocide.
During his address, Netanyahu accused his critics of hypocrisy and defended Israel’s military operations in Gaza and elsewhere in the region. His speech also included criticism of New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani and several Western governments over their positions on Israel.
The demonstrations outside the UN included Palestinian supporters, human-rights activists and Jewish groups opposed to Netanyahu’s policies. Police detained protesters during the demonstrations, with authorities later reporting more than 100 arrests.
The diplomatic walkout and protests came as Netanyahu faces international criticism over the Gaza war while preparing for Israel’s October 27 election. The developments placed his appearance at the UN against the backdrop of both diplomatic pressure abroad and a closely watched political contest at home.
The events also highlighted the sharp divisions surrounding Israel’s military campaign, with Netanyahu using the UN platform to present his government’s position while protesters and departing delegates signalled opposition to its policies
