Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sharply rebuked delegates who walked out of the United Nations General Assembly as he took the podium for his address on Thursday, calling those who left the chamber “moral cowards.”
As dozens of delegates left the hall in protest, Netanyahu responded directly from the podium.
“If there are any other moral cowards who haven’t yet left this hall, please do so now,” Netanyahu said.
The walkout involved delegates from several countries, including Arab and Muslim-majority nations, as well as Colombia and South Africa, according to reports. Large sections of the chamber were left empty as Netanyahu began speaking.
Netanyahu used the speech to defend Israel’s military actions and argue that the country was acting in self-defence. He said Israel had been fighting on multiple fronts and maintained that continuing the campaign was necessary.
“We will continue to defend our state. We will continue to win because we have no other choice,” Netanyahu said.
He also criticised governments and political figures he said were opposing Israel, while arguing that Israel’s actions had also served the security interests of other countries.
“In defending itself, Israel is also defending many of the countries whose delegates just left this hall,” Netanyahu said, adding that, according to him, some leaders had privately thanked Israel for its actions against Iran’s nuclear facilities.
Netanyahu’s remarks came amid widespread criticism of Israel at this year’s UN General Assembly. Israel rejects allegations of genocide and war crimes and maintains that its military operations are conducted in self-defence.
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