Netanyahu's UN Speech Sparks Controversy and Diplomatic Walkouts

Fri Oct 03 2025 03:45:11 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a heated address at the UN General Assembly, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the recent recognition of a Palestinian state by several nations, triggering a wave of diplomatic walkouts and protests. His strong remarks underscored the ongoing tensions surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict amidst the backdrop of the ongoing war in Gaza.

During his speech at the UN General Assembly, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu criticized Western countries for recognizing Palestine as a state, calling it a 'mark of shame'. The speech was marred by walkouts from several diplomats and significant protests outside. Netanyahu emphasized Israel's military efforts and accused various nations of underselling the urgency of the conflict. His remarks were met with backlash from both international figures and local Israeli politicians as tensions continue to escalate in the region due to the ongoing Gaza conflict.

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 that murdering Jews pays off.

Dozens of officials and diplomats 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 a Palestinian state this week.

In his opening remarks, Netanyahu displayed a map labelled The Curse that he said showed Iranian proxy groups across the Middle East. He highlighted Israeli military operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, Hamas in Gaza, and Iran.

He thanked US President Donald Trump for American involvement in bombing Iran's Fordo nuclear site in June, drawing parallels between Hamas's October 7 attack on Israel and the 9/11 attack on the US.

Netanyahu reiterated Israel's refusal to allow a Palestinian state to exist, claiming this position was supported by the majority of Israelis.

He rebuffed the conclusions of a UN inquiry that said Israel had committed genocide in Gaza, calling the claims baseless. He also contested UN statements regarding aid restrictions entering Gaza amidst reports of a humanitarian crisis.

Netanyahu's speech also included an appeal to the governments of Syria and Lebanon regarding Hezbollah, which drew criticism from opposition leaders who described his address as ineffective and disconnected from realities, especially regarding the suffering of those affected by the ongoing conflict.

International journalists reported an increasing difficulty in verifying information regarding the conflict due to Israeli restrictions, while Netanyahu's efforts to connect with hostages in Gaza were met with skepticism from local Gazans.

With tensions rising and casualties in Gaza reaching unprecedented levels, Netanyahu’s remarks underscore the ongoing struggle and division surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict amid calls for diplomatic resolution.