Dozens of delegates walked out as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu began his address. The incident happened during the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York. Hundreds of protesters also gathered outside the United Nations building. Demonstrators opposed Netanyahu’s government and Israel’s military actions in Gaza. The walkout left large sections of the General Assembly hall empty. Netanyahu continued his speech despite the departure of many delegations. He defended Israel’s military actions and rejected allegations of genocide in Gaza. Netanyahu said Israel had prevented genocide rather than committed it.
He also criticised several of his international opponents during the address. New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani was a major focus of his remarks. Mamdani later criticised Netanyahu’s speech. He accused the Israeli leader of repeating claims about Israel’s actions in Gaza. He also referred to the International Criminal Court warrant against Netanyahu. Outside the UN, protesters gathered at several locations across Manhattan. The demonstrations included Palestinian supporters, human-rights campaigners and Jewish groups.
Jewish Voice for Peace organised one of the largest direct actions. Hundreds of protesters gathered near First Avenue and 39th Street. Some protesters sat in the roadway and blocked traffic. Police moved to clear the area as demonstrations continued. More than 100 protesters were later taken into custody, according to police. At least 30 people were arrested during the initial action. Several well-known figures were among those detained or involved. They included actors, musicians, activists and politicians.
The demonstrations also showed divisions among Jewish groups in New York. Progressive Jewish organisations held a separate protest near the UN. Their event focused on opposition to Netanyahu’s policies. Organisers also called for a ceasefire and accountability over alleged war crimes.
Pro-Netanyahu counter-protesters also appeared at the demonstrations. They used whistles, megaphones and chants in support of Netanyahu. Another Jewish group, Neturei Karta, also demonstrated against Israel. The group argued that opposition to Israel should not automatically be treated as antisemitism. Jewish and Muslim demonstrators also marched together toward the UN. Their protests added to the wider mobilisation across New York. The events inside and outside the UN created two parallel scenes. Diplomats expressed their opposition through the walkout inside the hall.
Protesters expressed their opposition through demonstrations outside the building. Police arrests followed some of the street protests. The event came amid growing international criticism of Israel’s Gaza campaign. Netanyahu’s visit to New York was also shortened. He arrived Thursday morning, addressed the General Assembly and planned to return to Israel that evening. The protests and diplomatic walkout placed international opposition around Netanyahu’s UN appearance. His speech focused on defending Israel’s position and rejecting accusations against the country.
This highlighted both diplomatic and public reactions during his visit.
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