New York: Dozens of delegates walked out of the UN General Assembly on Thursday as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu began defending Israel’s military operations, while hundreds of protesters gathered outside the UN headquarters and police made arrests.
The coordinated departure left large sections of the chamber empty during Netanyahu’s address to the 81st General Assembly session.
Netanyahu rejected allegations that Israel had committed genocide in Gaza and defended its military operations across the region. He accused governments criticising Israel of hypocrisy and described his opponents as “moral cowards.”
Israel faces proceedings at the International Court of Justice over allegations of genocide, which it rejects. The International Criminal Court has separately issued a warrant for Netanyahu over alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity. Israel disputes the accusations and the court’s jurisdiction.
Netanyahu also criticised New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, calling him antisemitic and accusing him of spreading false claims about Israel. Mamdani rejected the accusations and said Netanyahu remained subject to the International Criminal Court warrant.
Outside the UN, Palestinian supporters, Muslim and Jewish activists, human rights groups, artists and politicians held separate demonstrations opposing Israel’s conduct in Gaza and continued US support for the country.
Police detained at least 30 people during one protest that blocked a road near the UN. Those arrested included actors Susan Sarandon and Hannah Einbinder, along with politicians and activists. Other prominent figures also participated in the demonstrations.
The protests exposed divisions within New York’s Jewish community. Progressive Jewish organisations called for a ceasefire and accountability for alleged violations, while Netanyahu supporters held counter demonstrations nearby.
Netanyahu shortened his New York visit amid heightened security concerns and returned to Israel after addressing the assembly.
