Netanyahu’s UN Appearance: The QR Code, the Speech, and the Walkout

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s address to the UN Security Council featured a notable element: a QR code on his suit. This code, the subject of widespread interest, was linked to a website presenting documentation of the October 7th atrocities. Other members of the Israeli delegation also displayed this QR code. The campaign, a component of Israeli public diplomacy, also involved displays of the QR code and the message ‘Remember October 7th’ on billboards and digital screens in high-traffic areas of New York, including the UN headquarters and Times Square. This initiative appears to be a response to the ongoing protests in America against Israel’s operations in Gaza. During his speech, Netanyahu addressed the Israeli hostages held in Gaza directly via a loudspeaker, starting in Hebrew and then switching to English, stating, “Our brave heroes (hostages), I am Prime Minister Netanyahu, speaking to you directly from the United Nations. We have not forgotten you for a moment. The people of Israel are with you.” Netanyahu asserted that he would persist in his efforts until all hostages were returned. He also noted that the speech was being broadcast live to mobile phones in Gaza, crediting his intelligence agency for the capability. Several nations’ representatives exited the hall as Netanyahu took the stage, protesting Israel’s actions in Gaza, while the Israeli delegation offered applause.