Key facts
- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu plans to attend the UN General Assembly in New York in September.
- Netanyahu accused New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani of fomenting hate and turning groups against each other.
- Netanyahu called the International Criminal Court's war crimes charges against him 'bogus.'
- Mayor Mamdani acknowledged that New York City does not have the legal authority to execute an arrest warrant for Netanyahu.
- Mamdani urged federal authorities to arrest Netanyahu if he visits the United States.
- Donald Trump stated on social media that Netanyahu would not be arrested in the U.S.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strongly criticized New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, accusing him of 'fomenting hate' and attempting to turn New Yorkers against each other. Netanyahu's remarks came in response to Mamdani's suggestion that Netanyahu, whom the mayor called a 'war criminal,' is not welcome in New York City and should be arrested if he visits for the United Nations General Assembly in September.
Netanyahu, who confirmed his intention to attend the UN gathering, dismissed the International Criminal Court's (ICC) war crimes charges against him as 'bogus.' He also pointed to allegations against the ICC's top prosecutor, suggesting the warrant was a diversionary tactic. Mamdani, while acknowledging that the city lacks the legal authority to issue an arrest warrant, urged federal authorities to take action.
The prime minister expressed concern that bipartisan support for Israel in the United States is eroding, particularly among progressive Democrats. He also highlighted a rise in antisemitism, stating that Jewish individuals in New York City feel 'very uncomfortable.'
U.S. President Donald Trump publicly assured Netanyahu via social media that he would not face arrest while in the United States. Netanyahu is also expected to meet with Trump and attend the funeral of the late Senator Lindsey Graham during his visit.