Israeli Diplomat Photographed Cataloging UN Walkout During Netanyahu Speech

During Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's address at the United Nations General Assembly, a coordinated walkout by dozens of delegations occurred. The Palestinian delegation had reportedly instructed representatives to fill the hall and then leave when Netanyahu began speaking. This action created a noticeable visual of empty seats during the speech.

In response to the mass departure, an Israeli diplomat was filmed meticulously noting the names of countries whose representatives had left or were absent. This act, captured on video and widely shared internationally, was dubbed a "roll call" by foreign media. Netanyahu, addressing the empty seats, remarked, "If there are more moral cowards who have not yet left this hall, please do so now."

Reports suggest that approximately 77 delegations were absent or left during the speech, including those from Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Pakistan, and Iran. However, independent checks indicated that not all these countries intentionally walked out, with some not present initially and others leaving only a single junior diplomat behind.

Israel has not yet issued an official statement clarifying the purpose of the diplomat's note-taking or whether it will lead to future diplomatic actions.