Dozens of United Nations delegates from various member states — including Iran — walked out of the UN General Assembly hall on Friday in protest against the speech of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Netanyahu, who was expected to defend Israel’s military actions in Gaza, began his address amid heightened diplomatic tensions, while delegates exited the chamber one after another.
In a sharp statement, Netanyahu condemned recent Western recognition of a Palestinian state, calling it a dangerous precedent:
“Western recognition of Palestine shows that killing Jews pays off,” he said, accusing several countries of legitimizing terrorism.
He also issued a warning to Western leaders:
“Those who fear standing up to evil will not escape the storm of jihad by sacrificing Israel.”
Netanyahu further revealed that his speech was being broadcast live into Gaza through loudspeakers placed along the border, underscoring Israel’s message to its adversaries.
The speech came just days after countries including Australia, Canada, France, and the United Kingdom announced their recognition of a Palestinian state, a move strongly rejected by Tel Aviv.
