Iraqi delegation walks out during Israeli representative’s address at UN anti-corruption conference
The Iraqi delegation abruptly left the 10th session of the Conference of States Parties to the UN Convention Against Corruption in Atlanta, U.S., as Israel’s representative delivered a speech.
Haider Hanoun, the head of the delegation and also the leader of the Federal Commission of Integrity (COI), followed directives from Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, expressing solidarity with the Palestinian people and condemning Israeli occupation forces’ actions in Gaza.
The COI issued a statement noting Hanoun’s departure during the Israeli representative’s speech. Hanoun had emphasized the urgent need for ending the conflict and providing immediate humanitarian aid to those besieged in Gaza during his own address on Tuesday. He further underscored the importance of holding individuals accountable for war crimes in Gaza, in accordance with international laws.
The move comes amid heightened tensions, with over 16,000 Palestinians reported to have lost their lives due to Israeli bombardment since the conflict began on October 7. The escalation followed a surprise strike by a 1,200-person Hamas attack on Israel.
