Netanyahu calls Palestinian recognition “disgraceful” as dozens walk out of UN speech

At the United Nations General Assembly in New York on September 26, 2025, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denounced the recent wave of international recognition of a Palestinian state as a “disgraceful” step that “rewards terrorism,” drawing a coordinated walkout by dozens of delegates.

He singled out moves announced this week by close Western partners and vowed that Israel would not accept the creation of a Palestinian state. He also declared that Israel must “finish the job” in Gaza, dismissing mounting calls for a ceasefire and rejecting accusations that Israel is committing genocide.

Netanyahu’s remarks came days after the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia formally recognized the State of Palestine, followed by France at a high-level UN meeting, decisions their governments framed as aimed at preserving a viable two-state solution.

In the General Assembly Hall, many diplomats stood and left as Netanyahu began, while protests unfolded outside the UN and near the Israeli leader’s hotel in Manhattan.

Addressing Israeli hostages still held in Gaza, Netanyahu said Israel had broadcast his UN address toward the enclave via loudspeakers at the border so captives could hear his pledge not to forget them. He castigated Western leaders who supported recognition as having “buckled” under pressure, warning their decisions would embolden future violence.

The fraught appearance underscored Israel’s deepening diplomatic rift with partners now openly backing Palestinian statehood and the growing polarization surrounding the Gaza war.

Source: Reuters, AP News, Washington Post