Palestinian Diplomatic Move to Embarrass Netanyahu During His UN Speech

Media reports stated that the Palestinian mission to the United Nations distributed a letter to delegations in New York, calling for a coordinated withdrawal from the General Assembly hall during Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech scheduled for Friday afternoon.

According to the Israeli site Walla, the letter urged delegations to send as many staff members as possible to the hall from the morning, then leave collectively when Netanyahu takes the stage, aiming to send a “clear message that the international community does not accept complicity in genocide, war crimes, and illegal occupation,” as the letter expressed.

In response, Israel’s UN ambassador, Danny Danon, condemned the move, calling it a “cheap and pathetic show,” affirming that “Israel’s voice will be heard loud and clear at the United Nations.” He noted that some organizers requested countries to fill their seats with junior representatives to create the image of a mass walkout on camera.

Netanyahu’s speech comes amid a tense atmosphere at the UN headquarters, with the ongoing war in Gaza and growing diplomatic efforts to recognize the Palestinian state. If the withdrawal plan is executed, it could become a notable symbolic protest putting Netanyahu’s speech under global diplomatic scrutiny.