Breaking News: NYC Mayor Changes Stance on Netanyahu Arrest
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has stated he does not have the authority to arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This follows Mamdani’s earlier pledge to enforce an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant against Netanyahu if he visited the city.
In a social media video, Mamdani called on U.S. officials to act on the ICC’s warrant, which alleges war crimes. He clarified that his team reviewed the legal options and concluded that only the federal government could enforce the warrant.
President Donald Trump responded, stating Netanyahu would not face arrest in the U.S. He defended Netanyahu, citing his fight against Iran.
Mamdani also mentioned that Netanyahu is “not welcome” in New York City, where he is expected to attend the UN General Assembly in September. The ICC issued the arrest warrant in 2024, also targeting a Hamas commander.
The ICC has jurisdiction over genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes in member states. Mamdani’s comments come amid changing Democratic voter attitudes toward Israel. Israeli Ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, criticized Mamdani, stating he should focus on serving New Yorkers.
