Scores of diplomats staged a walkout during Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech at the United Nations General Assembly on Friday, protesting Israel’s ongoing war on Gaza and recent attacks on Lebanon.
As Netanyahu took the stage, several diplomats hurriedly exited the great hall, prompting the presiding official to call for “order, please” as the Israeli leader began his address.
The incident took place after a senior Hamas official urged world leaders to boycott Netanyahu’s speech at the assembly.
In his speech, Netanyahu vowed that Israel’s military would continue striking Hezbollah militants in Lebanon “with all our might,” despite ongoing efforts by the US, European allies, and several Arab nations to broker a three-week cease-fire.
Netanyahu Stunned As World Leaders Walk Out Before His UNGA Speech; Hamas Has The Last Laugh
Netanyahu’s arrival in New York coincided with deepened international appeals for cease-fires in both Gaza and Lebanon, as global leaders warned of the growing threat of a broader Middle East conflict.
Meanwhile, Israel has intensified its offensive on Hezbollah’s strongholds in Lebanon’s capital, unleashing a fierce wave of airstrikes.
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The latest strikes, which began last night in central Beirut, sent thick plumes of smoke rising into the sky, igniting fear and chaos in densely populated civilian areas. The escalation has added up concerns of further devastation in the city, as residents brace for continued attacks.
The Gaza war, nearing its one-year mark, has left the territory in ruins. More than 42,000 people have been killed, and nearly the entire population has been displaced at least once.
In northern Gaza, residents face the brink of famine as entire neighborhoods, families, and essential infrastructure, including homes, schools, and hospitals, have been destroyed by relentless air strikes and tank fire.