Half of Belfast City Council's chamber was left empty after a walk-out by Sinn Féin and several other parties, protesting the handling of a debate over the education minister's recent trip to Israel. The dispute centered on how the Lord Mayor managed Sinn Féin's attempt to raise the issue, leading to a tense standoff and an hour-long delay before councillors returned. During the meeting, some councillors resumed their seats to vote for a short adjournment, which was passed, allowing talks to take place behind the scenes.

The walk-out was attributed to restrictions on speaking about Palestine, with claims that the mayor was silencing discussion to protect the education minister from scrutiny. Despite unionist opposition, councillors later voted to fly the Palestinian flag at City Hall as part of an international day of solidarity. Sinn Féin has indicated it will continue to raise concerns about the minister's visits to Israel.