Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the U.N. General Assembly on Thursday as Israel faces growing international criticism over its actions in Gaza and the occupied West Bank.

Many attendees walked out as Netanyahu took the stage, prompting him to criticize those who left the hall.

In his speech, Netanyahu defended Israel’s military actions following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack and praised U.S. support, including President Donald Trump’s leadership.

He said Israel would continue defending itself and was expected to focus on Iran as well as Israel’s ongoing military operations in Gaza and neighboring countries, CBS News has reported.

Netanyahu’s visit to New York was unusually brief, with his office citing the upcoming Jewish holiday of Sukkot and announcing meetings with several foreign leaders.