Netanyahu addresses UN amid walkouts and criticism over Gaza and West Bank policies

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a speech to the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday, emphasizing the threat posed by Iran and defending Israel's military operations in Gaza and the occupied West Bank. His remarks came as a number of delegations, including representatives from France, the United Kingdom, Jordan, Syria, Qatar and Turkey, exited the chamber in protest.

Netanyahu began his address by urging any remaining "moral cowards" to leave, a statement that prompted further walkouts. He also said he would respond to criticism from New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, whom he accused of supporting Hamas, and promised to present what he called the truth about Israel's soldiers.

The speech followed a series of condemnations from world leaders. British Prime Minister Andy Burnham described Israel's response to the Oct. 7 Hamas attack as disproportionate, while French President Emmanuel Macron accused Israel of daily violations in the West Bank. Jordanian King Abdullah called for sanctions and diplomatic isolation of Israel.

Analysts noted that Netanyahu’s brief New York visit, timed ahead of Israel’s October elections, was intended to showcase his ability to confront international criticism. He is scheduled to meet several Latin American and European heads of state before departing for the Jewish holiday of Sukkot.