Netanyahu’s U.N. Speech Sparks Walkouts, Analysts Link to Political Survival

Israeli PM Netanyahu faces backlash at U.N. as critics accuse him of genocide. Analysts say speech aimed to boost political standing ahead of elections.

Editorial Desk

September 25, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — New York, United States — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faced a dramatic walkout during his U.N. General Assembly address Thursday, as hundreds of delegates left the hall in protest. The speech came amid growing global scrutiny over Israel’s military actions in Gaza and accusations of genocide against the Palestinian population.

Netanyahu defended the ongoing war with Iran, which he said was launched jointly with the U.S., and rejected claims of genocide in Gaza. He also criticized New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, calling him antisemitic and suggesting that many Jews no longer feel safe in the city. The speech was delivered as Netanyahu’s right-wing government trails in national polls ahead of legislative elections on Oct. 27.

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Analysts suggest the address was strategically timed to bolster support among Netanyahu’s base. Yaakov Katz, former editor-in-chief of the Jerusalem Post, noted that the speech could help consolidate backing or gain additional votes. Meanwhile, protests outside the U.N. headquarters saw dozens arrested, with demonstrators accusing both Netanyahu and the U.S. of enabling violence through continued arms sales to Israel. The mayor reiterated allegations of genocide, citing international reports and the ICC arrest warrant against Netanyahu for alleged war crimes.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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