New Delhi, September 25, 2026

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s appearance at the United Nations General Assembly began with a striking diplomatic protest, as dozens of delegates left the chamber when he took the podium. The walkout immediately brought the deep international divisions surrounding Israel and its actions in the region into focus before Netanyahu had moved into the substance of his address.

Representatives from multiple countries were seen filing out of the General Assembly hall as Netanyahu began his speech on September 24. The departure of dozens of delegates contrasted with the reaction from his supporters in the chamber, while the General Assembly president repeatedly called for order.

Netanyahu addressed the walkout before proceeding with his speech, directly criticising those who had chosen to leave the chamber.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said:

“Before I begin, I just want to make a brief announcement: If there is any other moral coward still present in this hall who hasn't left yet, please do so now. Thank you very much.”

The walkout turned the opening moments of Netanyahu’s address into a visible display of the diplomatic tensions surrounding Israel. With delegates choosing to leave while others remained and expressed support, the contrasting reactions inside the hall reflected the wider divisions among countries over Israel’s conduct and the continuing conflicts in the Middle East.