UNITED NATIONS – In a striking display of diplomatic protest, dozens of delegates from over 50 nations exited the United Nations General Assembly hall on Friday as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu began his speech addressing Israel’s conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon.
The walkout, which included diplomats from countries such as Colombia, Iran, and South Africa, occurred as Netanyahu opened his address by accusing the United Nations of a long-standing bias against Israel.
During his speech, the Israeli leader announced that his remarks were being broadcast directly to residents of the Gaza Strip through commandeered mobile networks and border loudspeakers. He used the platform to urge the militant group Hamas to release Israeli hostages. Netanyahu also detailed recent Israeli military actions against Hamas, Hezbollah, and other factions.
While a significant portion of the assembly hall emptied, the United States ambassador to the UN was seen remaining seated in a show of support for Israel.
The protest underscores the deep international divisions surrounding the ongoing conflicts and Israel’s military strategy.
