Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was met with unprecedented humiliation at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) as a significant number of delegates staged a mass walkout the moment he began his speech.

The delegates’ coordinated exit was a powerful act of protest against the ongoing genocide in Gaza, where Israeli occupation forces have martyred and injured tens of thousands of Palestinians — the overwhelming majority women and children. Diplomats refused to legitimize the words of a leader accused of war crimes, leaving the hall visibly empty as Netanyahu addressed rows of deserted seats.

Streets of New York Rise for Palestine

Outside the UN, the rejection was even louder. Thousands of demonstrators filled Manhattan’s streets in a vibrant show of solidarity with the besieged people of Gaza. Protesters carried Palestinian flags and banners reading “Stop the Genocide” and “Arrest Netanyahu,” while chanting for justice, freedom, and the urgent opening of humanitarian corridors for Gaza’s starving population.

“This is not just about protest,” said one demonstrator. “It’s about holding Israel accountable and demanding the world stop enabling genocide.”

Wave of Recognitions Strengthens Palestine

Netanyahu’s isolation was underscored by a major diplomatic breakthrough: the United Nations confirmed a new wave of recognitions of the State of Palestine on Monday.

The United Kingdom, France, Australia, Canada, Portugal, Belgium, Malta, Luxembourg, Andorra, and Monaco officially recognized Palestinian statehood, bringing the total to 159 of 193 UN member states — over three-quarters of the international community.

This growing bloc includes powerful nations such as Russia, China, Turkey, India, South Africa, Brazil, and European states like Norway, Ireland, Spain, and Sweden. Together, they reaffirm the global commitment to the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and the establishment of an independent state with Jerusalem as its capital.

A Turning Point in Global Solidarity

This year’s UNGA, held under the theme “Better Together: 80 Years and More for Peace, Development and Human Rights,” has become a rallying platform for amplifying the Palestinian struggle. The international walkout, combined with the surge of recognitions, signals what many are calling a turning point in the global movement for justice in Palestine.

Analysts noted that Netanyahu’s speech — delivered to a hall emptied in protest — symbolized Israel’s growing isolation. In contrast, Palestine’s cause continues to gain unstoppable momentum.

As chants for Gaza echoed through New York and the list of nations recognizing Palestine expanded, the message was unmistakable: the world stands with Palestine, and the time for justice is now. (ILKHA)