Mamdani Calls for Netanyahu's Arrest

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani made striking statements before Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to New York for the United Nations General Assembly, reiterating his call that the International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant against Netanyahu should be enforced.

Mamdani's statement came immediately after a meeting he held at the official residence of the New York City Hall, Gracie Mansion, with U.S. President Donald Trump. In their roughly one‑hour discussion, topics such as housing, migration, and the cost of living for New Yorkers were addressed.

Mamdani's Serious Accusations Against Netanyahu

Speaking to CNN, Mamdani said his view of Netanyahu had not changed, labeling the Israeli prime minister as a "war criminal" in his own assessment and accusing him of being the "architect of a horrific genocide" against Palestinians in Gaza.

Mamdani argued that the arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court should be taken into account, stating that no one should be above the law when it comes to accountability.

New York Has No Arrest Authority

However, Mamdani's statement contains an important legal detail. The Mayor of New York had previously acknowledged that the city administration did not have the authority to arrest Netanyahu.

In July, Mamdani stated that his administration had examined the issue from a legal standpoint and had concluded that the New York City government lacked the independent authority to enforce the ICC's arrest order. He then directed his appeal to U.S. federal authorities.

In this way, Mamdani is retreating from his assertion that Netanyahu could be arrested if he comes to New York during the campaign, in terms of legal authority, while continuing his political position that the ICC ruling must be enforced.

Netanyahu Is Coming to New York for the UN General Assembly

The timing of the statement is also striking. Netanyahu is expected to arrive in New York this week and to address the UN General Assembly on Thursday, September 24. Mamdani's announcement came only days before Netanyahu's speech.

Mamdani said he would not participate in the protests expected to be organized during Netanyahu's visit, while stating that those who wish to protest should be allowed to do so.

The ICC had issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu.

The International Criminal Court had issued an arrest warrant in November 2024 for Netanyahu and then-Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on allegations of war crimes linked to the Gaza war and crimes against humanity.

The Israeli administration, however, rejects the ICC's accusations and the court's jurisdiction. The United States is also not a party to the ICC's Rome Statute.

With Mamdani's latest statement, Netanyahu's visit to New York became one of the most controversial topics on the city's political agenda during the UN General Assembly week.