Absent But Defiant: Iran Skips Netanyahu’s UN Speech, Leaves Soleimani Portrait On Empty Desk

Last Updated:September 25, 2026, 02:15 IST

The portrait sat at the front of the desk, occupying the space where Iranian diplomats would normally have been seated.

A picture of late Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps commander Qassem Soleimani sits on the desk of the Iranian delegation. (AFP photo)

Iran’s delegation was absent from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech at the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday, but a powerful symbol was left behind.

A portrait of Qasem Soleimani, the former commander of Iran’s elite Quds Force, was placed prominently on the desk reserved for the Islamic Republic’s delegation as Netanyahu addressed the 81st UN General Assembly in New York.

The portrait sat at the front of the desk, occupying the space where Iranian diplomats would normally have been seated.

The symbolic gesture came amid a mass walkout as Netanyahu began his address, with dozens of diplomats leaving the chamber. Some delegates jeered and booed, while members of Netanyahu’s team stood and applauded.

ALSO READ: Mass Walkout At UNGA As Israel’s Netanyahu Takes Podium: ‘Moral Cowards,’ He Fires Back

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What symbol did Iran leave on its desk during Netanyahu’s UN speech?

Iran’s delegation left a portrait of Qasem Soleimani, the former commander of Iran’s elite Quds Force, prominently placed on the desk reserved for the Islamic Republic during Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech at the 81st UN General Assembly.

How did diplomats react when Benjamin Netanyahu took the podium at the UN?

As Netanyahu began his address, dozens of diplomats staged a mass walkout, with some delegates jeering and booing while members of Netanyahu’s team stood and applauded.

What issues did Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu address at the 81st UNGA?

Netanyahu used his address at the 81st United Nations General Assembly to highlight Israel’s achievements during the war, particularly against Iran, and to defend Israel and IDF soldiers against criticism.

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