77 Delegations Walk Out as Netanyahu Begins UNGA Address

NEW YORK: Dozens of diplomatic delegations left the United Nations General Assembly hall or were absent as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu began his address during the 81st session of the UN General Assembly.

An Israeli count cited by multiple reports put the number at 77 delegations, although the figure includes both delegations that left the chamber and those that were not present for the address.

Delegations from countries across the Middle East, Asia, Africa, Europe and Latin America were among those not present or leaving the hall.

Reports said representatives from Pakistan, Türkiye, Iran, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Jordan, Iraq, Saudi Arabia and several other countries were among those who left or were absent.

Walkout Comes Amid Gaza Debate

The departure of delegations came amid intense international debate over Israel’s military campaign in Gaza and the wider regional conflict.

Netanyahu used his address to defend Israel’s actions and respond to international criticism, while the walkout highlighted the diplomatic divisions surrounding Israel’s policies.

The episode nevertheless demonstrated the sharp diplomatic disagreement surrounding Netanyahu’s appearance at the UN General Assembly.