UNGA 79: Maldives among countries to walk out during Netanyahu's speech

Maldives, among many other countries, walked out from the floor yesterday when Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu walked into the venue to deliver his speech at the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 79).

In post on X (formerly Twitter), President's Office Spokesperson Heena Waleed said Maldives' delegation left the floor when "Israel's tyrannical Prime Minister" began his speech in respect of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's special consideration for Palestine and his efforts towards the Palestinian cause.

Video footage from the event show most UN member countries leave the floor as soon as Netanyahu began his speech in protest of Israel's genocide, apartheid and ethnic cleansing of the Palestinian people, which has now also expanded on to Lebanon.

President Muizzu, who is currently in New York to take part in the UNGA 79, met with Palestinian President Mahmood Abbas during the trip, assuring that Maldives will remain steadfast in international efforts to have Palestine recognised as an independent state.

Even in his speech at the General Assembly, President Muizzu called out Israel for its genocidal actions and urged the global community to stop Israel.

He further said it is unacceptable for any nation to infringe upon the rights of another, and that the most important step towards ensuring fundamental rights is to foster a culture that respects them. But, Israel's action do not reflect that culture, the president said, expressing concern of the global community's failure to hold Israel accountable.

President Muizzu described Israel's actions as terrorism and genocide. He also said it shows that Israel is challenging international order and justice.

As of 28th May 2024, the State of Palestine was recognised by the vast majority of Member States of the United Nations. However the Palestine's bid to become a full member state of the UN was denied by USA's veto - seemingly 'big brother' figure for Israel.

However, Palestine was granted a seat at the UN General Assembly in a resolution passed this month. However this comes with the exception of the ability to vote and become a member of the security council.

Even as recent as 18th of this ongoing September, the UN General Assembly passed a resolution calling for Israel to withdraw from Palestinian territories within a year.

However, Israel shows no signs of heeding to the endless calls of the international society. Instead, with countries with the USA backing them up with arms and funds, Israel's aggression is only growing, now expanded into the Lebanese territories as well.