Netanyahu Defends Israel at UN as Delegates Walk Out
NEW YORK: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended Israel’s actions in the region during his address to the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday, while dozens of delegates walked out of the hall in protest.
Netanyahu criticised his opponents, including New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, as well as Qatar and Türkiye. He described the delegates who left the chamber as “moral cowards” and said attempts to prevent or silence his UN appearance had failed.
Mamdani later responded to Netanyahu’s remarks, saying the Israeli prime minister’s statements could not change the legal proceedings against him. The New York mayor referred to the International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant issued against Netanyahu in 2024 over alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.
Netanyahu rejected allegations that Israel had committed genocide and defended the actions of the Israeli military. Israel has consistently denied genocide allegations and says its military operations are directed against Hamas.
Qatar Rejects Netanyahu’s Claims
Qatar rejected Netanyahu’s accusations that Doha was conducting a campaign to influence international public opinion against Israel.
Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed Al Ansari said the allegations were an attempt to divert attention from Israel’s actions in the occupied Palestinian territories.
He also rejected the suggestion that growing criticism of Israel, particularly among younger people, was primarily the result of organised influence campaigns.
Al Ansari said Israel should focus on its policies and compliance with international law rather than blaming Qatar or other countries for changes in global public opinion.
Türkiye Also Responds
Türkiye also dismissed Netanyahu’s accusations against the country and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Turkish presidential communications director Burhanettin Duran said Netanyahu’s remarks did not change Türkiye’s position regarding the situation in Gaza or the ongoing international legal proceedings.
Protests Outside the UN
The tensions surrounding Netanyahu’s appearance were also reflected outside the United Nations headquarters, where hundreds of protesters gathered.
Demonstrators called for an end to US arms support for Israel and demanded greater protection for civilians in Gaza. Police detained a number of protesters during the demonstrations.
Netanyahu’s UN appearance came during a period of continued international criticism over Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. He also praised US President Donald Trump during his speech, describing Washington as an important partner for Israel.
The address highlighted the continuing divisions at the UN over Israel’s military actions, the Gaza conflict and the wider regional situation.
