OTTAWA — Canada did not participate in a mass walkout during Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech at the United Nations General Assembly on the morning of September 26, 2025. Canadian Ambassador Bob Rae remained seated while numerous diplomats from other nations exited the chamber in protest.

The presiding official had to call for order multiple times as delegations, particularly from developing countries, stood to leave. Netanyahu's address included strong criticism of countries that recognize a Palestinian state, labeling such actions as a “disgraceful decision” that could foster terrorism against Jewish people.

In his speech, Netanyahu also discussed the hostages taken by Hamas nearly two years ago and highlighted threats from Iran. During his remarks, he faced heckling from at least one individual in the audience.

Israel is currently under significant global scrutiny due to its military actions in the Gaza Strip, which have resulted in widespread criticism regarding the humanitarian impact on Palestinian civilians. This includes allegations of starvation and recent cross-border strikes, such as an attack on Hamas negotiators in Qatar earlier this month.