Muslim Countries Set to Boycott Netanyahu’s UNGA Speech

New York: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to address the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) today, though his speech is expected to face a planned boycott by Muslim and Arab countries.

According to international reports, representatives from Muslim nations have collectively decided to leave the Assembly hall when Netanyahu begins speaking. This move is intended as a symbolic protest against Israeli policies and Netanyahu’s statements supporting a “Greater Israel” initiative.

Arab diplomats described the boycott as an expression of solidarity with Palestinians, who continue to face military raids, displacement, and restrictions in Gaza and the West Bank. Leaders from some Muslim-majority countries have also voiced concern that Netanyahu’s rhetoric threatens regional security and stability.

The planned walkout adds to the tensions at this year’s UNGA, where issues such as the Gaza conflict, the Palestinian humanitarian crisis, and regional instability remain central. Netanyahu, under increasing international scrutiny in recent months, will use his address to defend Israel’s actions and outline his government’s vision for regional security.

The boycott follows Netanyahu’s earlier remarks this year, reaffirming intentions to expand Israeli control over disputed territories. Muslim leaders criticized these comments, arguing that they undermine peace efforts and risk further escalation in the Middle East.

Other world leaders scheduled to speak today include Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chinese Premier Li Qiang, and Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus. Observers note that the contrast between Netanyahu’s address and those of Muslim and Asian leaders could further highlight divisions within the Assembly over Middle East issues.

Analysts emphasize that while UNGA boycotts are largely symbolic, they carry diplomatic weight by drawing international attention to contentious policies. Coordinated walkouts have historically been used by states to signal collective disapproval without resorting to formal mediation or sanctions.

As Netanyahu prepares to speak, the Muslim nations’ walkout is expected to underscore ongoing opposition to Israeli expansionist policies and reinforce calls for renewed focus on a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

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