UN delegates walk out as Netanyahu defends Israel’s actions

New York, United States - On September 24, 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the 81st United Nations General Assembly, defending Israel's actions in the region. His speech was met with widespread disapproval, resulting in multiple UN delegates walking out of the chamber in protest.

The event coincided with Netanyahu's face-off with international criticism over the ongoing war in Gaza. With Israel's general election approaching on October 27, less than five weeks away, the divisions over the military campaign were palpable from the outset of Netanyahu's speech. It was evident as dozens of delegates exited the hall, with Netanyahu labeling them as "moral cowards."

Netanyahu also accused Qatar and Türkiye of spreading fabrications about Israel. However, Qatar rejected the accusation, stating in a statement on X (formerly Twitter) that Netanyahu's persistent attacks were intended to distract from his government's responsibility for policies on the ground. The UN delegates walk out as Netanyahu defends Israel’s actions unfolded as Netanyahu's long speech took on the tone of a campaign address, broadcast during prime time on all four major Israeli television channels.