Jamaica Defends Stance to Stay Seated During Netanyahu Speech Despite 50-Nation Walkout

Jamaica Live News Desk– | Sept 30, 2025

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Kamina Johnson Smith, has defended Jamaica’s decision to remain seated during Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address at the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York.

On Friday, more than 50 countries staged a walkout—among them several CARICOM member states—in protest of Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza and Netanyahu’s sharp rhetoric. The coordinated action was intended to send a strong message of rejection to Israel’s conduct.

Unlike its regional partners, Jamaica stayed in its seat. Minister Johnson Smith explained that the decision was consistent with longstanding Jamaican diplomatic practice, which places emphasis on dialogue, engagement, and reasoned participation.

“Jamaica’s role has always been to be a voice of reason. We believe that boycotts or disengagement are not the best path forward. We must be present, we must listen, and we must continue to use the channels of diplomacy,” Johnson Smith said on Nationwide at Five on Friday.

Support for Palestine and Two-State Solution

Jamaica has formally recognised Palestine as a sovereign state and has repeatedly reaffirmed its support for a two-state solution as the only viable path to peace in the Middle East. Minister Johnson Smith stressed that this recognition remains unchanged and should not be confused with Jamaica’s approach at the UN.

“Remaining seated does not mean silence. Our principles are clear: we believe in the rights of the Palestinian people, and we believe peace must be built on mutual recognition and respect,” she added.

Balancing Principles and Practice

The minister pointed out that Jamaica’s presence during Netanyahu’s address reflects a broader philosophy of engagement. As a small island developing state with a long tradition of diplomacy, Jamaica views its role in the global arena as one of mediation and constructive dialogue, rather than confrontation.

By reaffirming its recognition of Palestine while also participating in the UN proceedings, Jamaica aims to demonstrate its commitment to peace, justice, and international law without withdrawing from critical forums of debate.