Dozens of delegates walked out of the United Nations General Assembly in New York as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu began his address, protesting his government's policies. The walkout, led by the UK and other Western nations, came as Netanyahu vowed to 'finish the job' in Gaza and rejected a two-state solution as 'insane'.
Netanyahu's speech was met with both boos and cheers, with more than 100 diplomats from over 50 countries leaving the hall. The Israeli leader told the remaining hostages in Gaza that he would not rest until they were brought home, and warned Hamas to lay down arms or face pursuit.
In an unprecedented move, the Israeli military broadcast Netanyahu's speech into Gaza via loudspeakers and mobile phone takeovers. The operation, directed by the Prime Minister's office, aimed to ensure the speech was heard in the Gaza Strip.
Netanyahu also addressed Iran, stating the world must not allow it to rebuild its nuclear and military programmes. This came as the UN prepared to reimpose sanctions on Tehran, following a 30-day process triggered by European powers accusing Iran of violating a 2015 nuclear deal.
Meanwhile, the UN released an updated database of companies with activities in Israeli settlements, listing 158 firms from 11 countries. The European Broadcasting Union also confirmed it would hold a vote on whether to expel Israeli broadcaster Kan from next year's Eurovision song contest.
