A series of technical breakdowns at the United Nations left world leaders struggling to be heard during the General Assembly, where discussions focused on Gaza and Palestinian statehood. Microphones failed during speeches by Türkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney, and Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto.

UN officials later said the glitches were due to equipment faults in the General Assembly hall and stressed there was “no indication” of deliberate interference.

On Tuesday, President Prabowo Subianto was explaining plans to send peacekeepers to Gaza when his microphone went silent. The interpreter had to pause until the audio feed returned a few seconds later.

Earlier, Turkish President Erdogan denounced what he called Israel’s “genocide in Gaza” and urged immediate recognition of Palestine. His speech was briefly interrupted, with delegates hearing the interpreter say: “Cannot hear the President, his voice is gone.” The sound returned shortly after, but confusion had already spread in the hall.

The most dramatic disruption occurred when Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney formally recognized the State of Palestine. His statement, “In this context, Canada recognises the state of Palestine,” drew applause, but moments later, his microphone cut out. One delegate noted, “The recognition was heard loud and clear, even if the microphone was not.”

Why Palestinian statehood dominates the UN

This year’s General Assembly has focused heavily on Palestinian recognition and urgent action on Gaza. Countries including France, Belgium, Malta, Luxembourg, and Canada have extended recognition. President Emmanuel Macron declared, “Today, France recognises the state of Palestine.”

Israel has rejected these moves. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, “A Palestinian state will not be established west of the Jordan River.” The US also opposed recognition, with the White House warning it could be seen as a “reward to Hamas.”

Despite audio issues, momentum for Palestinian statehood continues, with around 150 countries now backing recognition. Britain, France, Canada, and others have recently shifted their positions, while Japan has hinted at an impending decision.