UN Ambassador Bob Rae Defends Decision to Remain During Netanyahu Speech, Faces Criticism
New York, NY – Canada’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Bob Rae, is facing intense scrutiny after choosing to remain in the General Assembly hall while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the body. Rae defended his decision, stating he was fulfilling his duty to “listen to people,” a comment that has sparked significant backlash.
Critics argue Rae’s presence legitimized a leader facing accusations of war crimes,particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Several government officials from other nations notably walked out during Netanyahu’s speech in protest. One commenter, identified as Leilani Farha, directly questioned Rae’s implication that those officials were derelict in their duties, calling the suggestion “arrogant.”
Farha’s critique, shared publicly, further pressed Rae on his two years of observing the situation in Gaza, highlighting the devastating toll on Palestinian civilians. She cited figures of 20,000 Palestinian children killed and 21,000 amputated, alongside accusations of widespread starvation, denial of medical care, and the destruction of infrastructure – claiming 90% of buildings have been destroyed.Farha argued that a speech constitutes propaganda, not dialog, and challenged Rae to reveal any new insights gained from listening to Netanyahu.
Further questioning focused on Canada’s obligations under the Rome statute to prevent genocide in Gaza, and what concrete steps Rae has taken to fulfill that responsibility. Farha also raised concerns about the denial of a US visa to the leader of the Palestinian Authority, questioning what measures Rae took to facilitate their ability to address the UN General Assembly, despite the visa issue.
The commenter concluded with a statement of dismay, expressing embarrassment and sickness at what she perceives as the Canadian government’s willingness to “pander to a genocidaire,” funded in part by Canadian tax dollars.
Rae has not yet publicly responded to the specific criticisms leveled by Farha. The incident has ignited a debate about the role of diplomacy and the responsibility of nations to respond to alleged human rights violations.
