Netanyahu Defends Israel as Delegates Walk Out at UN

NEW YORK — Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke at the United Nations General Assembly on 24 September 2026, defending Israel’s military actions in Gaza while several member states walked out before his address. The speech followed a UN resolution that called for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, which Israel rejected.

UN General Assembly session

The General Assembly convened in New York’s United Nations Headquarters for its 80th session. A resolution adopted on 20 September 2026 by a vote of 141 to 14 demanded a ceasefire in Gaza and called for humanitarian aid to reach civilians. Israel had not endorsed the resolution and had continued its military operations in the enclave.

Netanyahu’s defense

Netanyahu’s address began with a critique of the resolution, which he said ignored Israel’s security concerns. He said Israel’s actions were necessary to protect its citizens from rocket attacks and to counter threats from Iran. He also criticized a UN official, Mamdani, for what he described as a biased stance against Israel. The Prime Minister called the situation a fight for survival and urged the international community to recognize Israel’s right to self‑defence.

Diplomatic walkouts

Before Netanyahu began speaking, delegates from the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and several other countries walked out of the assembly hall. The walkouts were staged as a protest against what the countries described as a one‑sided resolution that failed to address the broader context of the conflict. The United Nations Secretary‑General announced that the session would continue without the walkout delegations.

International context

Israel’s military campaign in Gaza began in early 2026 after a series of escalations that included rocket fire from Hamas and Iranian-backed militias. The United Nations has repeatedly called for a ceasefire and for the protection of civilians. The Israeli government has maintained that its operations target militant infrastructure and that it is committed to minimizing civilian casualties.

The walkouts reflected growing diplomatic isolation for Israel. Several Western allies expressed concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza and called for a negotiated settlement. Israel’s allies, however, reaffirmed their support for the Prime Minister’s right to defend the country.

Netanyahu’s speech was recorded and broadcast worldwide. The Israeli Foreign Ministry said the Prime Minister’s remarks were consistent with Israel’s official position on the conflict. The United Nations released a statement that the General Assembly would continue to discuss the resolution and related matters.