New York Mayor Calls for Arrest of Netanyahu During UN Assembly Visit
Mayor's Stance on Netanyahu's Potential Visit
Zohran Mamdani, the Mayor of New York City, has stated that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu should face arrest if he comes to the city for the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in September. However, he clarified that he does not intend to change any existing laws to facilitate this, as reported by a news outlet.
In a discussion with a prominent newspaper, Mamdani reiterated his long-standing criticisms of Netanyahu, who is currently under an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity related to Israel's military actions in Gaza. Israel has denied these allegations and contests the ICC's authority.
"I believe that Prime Minister Netanyahu belongs in The Hague. He's a war criminal who has been charged by the International Criminal Court," Mamdani stated. Nonetheless, he emphasized his commitment to operate within the framework of existing laws. "I will adhere to the laws in New York City because it's crucial for a leader to follow the law," he added.
When questioned about enforcing the ICC warrant, Mamdani responded, "We will act according to what the law permits in New York City, but we will not create our own laws for this purpose." His office is reportedly in discussions with the city's legal department to explore any legal avenues available should Netanyahu visit New York.
During his campaign, Mamdani had promised that the New York Police Department would enforce ICC arrest warrants against leaders wanted by the court, including Netanyahu and Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, legal experts have pointed out that such actions would lack a legal foundation since the United States is not a member of the ICC. Additionally, U.S. federal law prohibits cooperation with the court and protects foreign heads of state from local arrest.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has also indicated that the mayor lacks the authority to arrest Netanyahu. In response to Mamdani's remarks, Israel's UN Ambassador, Danny Danon, criticized the mayor for not focusing on his responsibilities in New York and instead inciting hostility towards Israel. Danon remarked, "Mamdani is failing to govern New York. Instead of addressing the rising antisemitism in his city, he has chosen to attack the State of Israel." He asserted that Netanyahu would attend the UN General Assembly to present Israel's perspective and suggested that if anyone should be arrested, it should be Mayor Mamdani.
The interview also explored Mamdani's broader perspectives on the Israel-Gaza conflict and U.S. policy in the region. He expressed that future presidential candidates should recognize the implications of U.S. support for Israel and mentioned he would only support former Vice President Kamala Harris if she revised her position on military aid to Israel. Despite this, Mamdani affirmed his belief in maintaining a diverse Democratic coalition, stating that agreement on every issue, including Israel and Palestine, should not be a prerequisite for collaboration.