Trump Defends Netanyahu Amid Controversy Over Potential Arrest in NYC

Former President Donald Trump has publicly defended Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's suggestion of a potential arrest during his visit to the UN General Assembly. Trump asserted that Netanyahu would not be detained in the U.S., emphasizing the need to hold Iranian leaders accountable instead. The controversy arises from Mamdani's calls for Netanyahu's arrest due to an ICC warrant related to the Gaza conflict, a move that legal experts say lacks enforcement power in the U.S. As tensions rise, the situation is expected to intensify with the upcoming UN meeting.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 21, 2026, 01:04 IST

Trump's Stance on Netanyahu's Visit

On Monday, former President Donald Trump dismissed the suggestion made by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani regarding the possible arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a visit to New York. Trump asserted on Truth Social that Netanyahu would not face any arrest while in the United States, stating, “Benjamin Netanyahu will not be arrested, in any way, shape, or form, while in the United States of America.”

Although Trump did not directly reference Mamdani, his comments followed the mayor's remarks about exploring legal avenues should Netanyahu attend the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in September. Trump emphasized Netanyahu's importance as an ally against Iran, suggesting that it is Iranian leaders who should be held accountable instead.

Mamdani has previously called for Netanyahu's detention due to an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) concerning the Gaza conflict. However, the U.S. does not recognize the ICC's authority in such matters. In a podcast interview, Mamdani expressed his belief that Netanyahu should be tried in The Hague, labeling him a war criminal.

Legal experts have pointed out that local officials lack the authority to enforce ICC warrants in the U.S., and federal law restricts cooperation with the court. This ongoing dispute has heightened tensions between Mamdani and Netanyahu, with the Israeli leader criticizing the mayor's stance on Israeli policies.

As the UN General Assembly approaches, the controversy is likely to escalate, especially if Netanyahu makes his first visit to New York since Mamdani took office. Trump has previously downplayed Mamdani's comments, reiterating that the federal government would not allow any attempts to detain the Israeli prime minister on American soil.