New York. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made global headlines at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) when he appeared wearing a QR code badge on his suit. The unusual move quickly went viral across social media and international media outlets.
Netanyahu explained that the QR code directed people to a website documenting the atrocities of October 7th, when Hamas militants carried out deadly attacks inside Israel. Members of the Israeli delegation accompanying Netanyahu also wore the same QR code badge.
This was part of a broader public diplomacy campaign in New York, where dozens of billboards, digital trucks, and screens near the UN headquarters and Times Square displayed the QR code with the message: “Remember October 7th.” The campaign comes at a time when widespread protests are erupting across the United States against Israel’s ongoing military offensive in Gaza, raising questions about whether Israel’s strategy can sway American public opinion.
Netanyahu’s Message at the UN
Addressing the assembly, Netanyahu first spoke in Hebrew, later switching to English. He directly addressed the Israeli hostages held in Gaza, saying through a loudspeaker:
“Our brave heroes, 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.”
He vowed not to stop until all hostages were returned, thanking Israel’s intelligence agencies for enabling his words to reach citizens’ mobile phones in real time.
Walkouts During His Speech
Despite the dramatic presentation, Netanyahu faced visible opposition. Several countries staged walkouts as soon as he took the podium, leaving much of the hall empty. The protest was a symbolic response to what critics describe as Israel’s “inhumane actions” in Gaza.
While world leaders left the chamber, the Israeli delegation applauded throughout his address, standing firmly behind the Prime Minister.
