ASEANNEWSNETWORK| Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a confrontational speech at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Thursday, September 24, 2026, criticizing a range of opponents and responding to dozens of delegates who walked out of the chamber as he began speaking.
Netanyahu used the 81st session of the UN General Assembly to defend Israel’s military actions and reject international criticism over its operations in Gaza. Several delegations left the hall in protest, while Netanyahu continued his speech and criticized those who departed.
Delegates Walk Out
The walkout took place as Netanyahu began his address. Dozens of diplomats and representatives from various countries left the General Assembly chamber, in a visible protest against Israel’s policies and military operations.
The Palestinian mission had urged delegations to leave during Netanyahu’s speech. The walkout was also reported to involve Indonesian representatives.
Netanyahu responded by criticizing those who left. Reports said he described them as “moral cowards” while continuing to address the remaining delegates.
The scene created disruption inside the chamber, with Netanyahu’s remarks drawing reactions from both supporters and opponents.
Netanyahu Attacks Critics
During his speech, Netanyahu defended Israel against accusations related to its military campaign in Gaza. He rejected allegations of genocide and described the accusations against Israel as false.
He also criticized several foreign leaders and governments, including Iran, Qatar, Britain, France and Türkiye. New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani was also among those targeted by Netanyahu during the address.
Before the speech, Netanyahu had said he intended to use the UN platform to defend Israel’s military actions and confront critics, including Mamdani, who has accused Netanyahu of war crimes and genocide against Palestinians. Netanyahu has rejected those accusations.
Defense of Israel's Military Campaign
Netanyahu presented Israel’s military operations as necessary for the country’s security and argued that Israel was acting against threats from Hamas and Iran.
The speech came amid continued international criticism of Israel’s conduct in Gaza. The United Nations secretary-general had earlier called for de-escalation and dialogue, warning that civilians continued to suffer amid conflicts across the Middle East.
Israel maintains that its military operations are directed against Hamas and that it seeks to protect its population. Israel has rejected allegations that it is committing genocide in Gaza.
International and Domestic Pressure
Netanyahu's UN appearance came as his government faced significant international criticism over the Gaza war and as Israel prepared for parliamentary elections scheduled for October 27, 2026.
The walkout at the UN highlighted the diplomatic tensions surrounding Israel's policies. At the same time, Netanyahu used the international platform to directly defend his government's position and challenge countries and political figures that have criticized Israel.
The controversy surrounding Netanyahu’s speech reflects continuing divisions at the United Nations over Israel’s military campaign in Gaza and the broader conflict in the Middle East.
The UN has continued to call for de-escalation, protection of civilians and diplomatic efforts to address the conflicts affecting the region.
The diplomatic dispute is expected to remain a major issue in international discussions as the Gaza conflict and broader regional tensions continue.
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