Ireland Declines to Join Walkout During Netanyahu’s UN General Assembly Speech

New York: Ireland’s delegation at the United Nations did not join dozens of countries that walked out of the General Assembly chamber as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu began his address in New York.

The walkout came amid strong international criticism of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. As Mr Netanyahu took to the podium, a significant number of delegates left the chamber in protest. Ireland’s representatives, however, remained in their seats.

Mr Netanyahu addressed the 81st session of the UN General Assembly at the organisation’s headquarters in New York. During the speech, some delegates voiced support for Palestine, while members of the Israeli delegation responded with boos.

Mr Netanyahu criticised what he described as false or misleading reporting about Israel and rejected allegations that Israel’s actions in Gaza constitute genocide. Israel has consistently denied allegations of genocide and maintains that its military campaign is directed against Hamas.

At one point, Mr Netanyahu challenged delegates who had remained in the chamber despite their opposition to Israel.

Foreign Minister explains Ireland’s position

A spokesperson for Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the Irish delegation did not participate in the walkout.

The department said Ireland is represented during national statements at the UN General Assembly as part of its participation in the high-level week, including speeches by governments with which Ireland has significant disagreements.

Foreign Affairs Minister Helen McEntee had previously indicated that Ireland was unlikely to leave the chamber during Mr Netanyahu’s address.

Asked whether Ireland’s presence during the speech was appropriate given the Government’s strong criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza, Ms McEntee said Ireland could disagree strongly with another country while still listening to what it has to say.

Ms McEntee said decisions on whether to boycott or leave a UN address were ultimately matters for individual member states.

She said Ireland had maintained its representation at the various speeches during the high-level General Assembly discussions and would continue to do so.

The decision comes as Ireland continues to take a strongly critical position on Israel’s conduct of the war in Gaza, while maintaining its participation in the UN’s diplomatic proceedings.

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