As Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the United Nations on Sept. 26, his speech quickly became one of the most talked-about moments of the assembly. Images of his so-called “pop quiz” posters went viral, sparking disbelief, criticism, and heated debate across social media platforms.
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Protests Outside Netanyahu’s Hotel
The controversy did not begin inside the UN building. The night before the speech, members of the Jewish community held what they called an “Autonomous Noise Demonstration for Gaza” outside Netanyahu’s New York hotel. Protesters carried signs with messages such as “Judaism Condemns the State of ‘Israel’ And its Atrocities” and even labeled the prime minister a “war criminal.” Meanwhile, pro-Palestinian demonstrators and pro-Israeli supporters stood on opposite sides of the street, further underscoring the deep divisions surrounding Israel’s leadership.
Mounting International Isolation
When Netanyahu stepped onto the UN stage, he did so under intense scrutiny. He faced accusations of war crimes from International Criminal Court prosecutor Karim Khan. Moreover, his appearance came just days after key allies—including the UK, France, Canada, and Australia—broke away from the United States to recognize an independent Palestinian state. Consequently, the diplomatic environment was already tense.
According to The Guardian, more than 100 diplomats representing over 50 nations walked out of Netanyahu’s speech in protest. Furthermore, GIFs and videos circulated online showing rows of empty chairs as delegations left the chamber. These striking visuals emphasized the growing sense of isolation that Israel faces on the international stage.
A Different Scene Outside the UN
While the hall emptied inside, the streets of New York told another story. The Associated Press reported that hundreds of protesters filled the area just blocks from the UN headquarters. This demonstration, much larger in visible scale, highlighted the rising anger and frustration among critics of Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza.
Netanyahu’s Defiant Message
Despite the walkouts, Netanyahu doubled down in his remarks. He insisted that Israel “must finish the job” against Hamas in Gaza. At the same time, he told world leaders, “Western leaders may have buckled under the pressure. And I guarantee you one thing: Israel won’t.” His rhetoric signaled that he intended to stand firm against growing global opposition.
The “Pop Quiz” Moment
Then came the moment that stunned many observers. In an unusual move, Netanyahu revealed large posters designed as multiple-choice “pop quiz” questions.
- The first asked: “Who has murdered American and Europeans in cold blood?” with the options: Al Qaeda, Hamas, Hezbollah, Iran, All of the above.
- The second read: “Who shouts ‘Death to America’?” with the options: Iran, Hamas, Hezbollah, The Houthis, All of the above.
These visuals, meant to deliver a sharp message, instead triggered a wave of disbelief online.
Social Media Reactions
Immediately after the images surfaced, users flooded social platforms with commentary. Many claimed they initially thought the photos were fake. One user wrote, “I literally thought these were edited.” Another questioned the strategy: “A pop quiz at the UN feels surreal. Do you think humor in diplomacy opens doors or closes them?”
Moreover, some reactions were openly dismissive. One person stated, “Politics are just a joke rn what the actual fuck.” Another remarked, “Not sure the world was ready for Netanyahu’s ‘pop quiz.’”
A Surreal Turning Point
In the end, Netanyahu’s “pop quiz” highlighted the widening gulf between Israel and many of its international counterparts. While the prime minister attempted to use humor and visual props to underscore his point, the reaction showed that such tactics can just as easily backfire. Therefore, the incident will likely be remembered not for persuading leaders but for symbolizing a surreal moment in global diplomacy.
