New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani stated on Tuesday that the city lacks the legal authority to enforce an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court for Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu. Mamdani called on the federal government to execute the warrant, referring to the Israeli Prime Minister as a “war criminal” and declaring him unwelcome in New York City.
Earlier this month, Mamdani had mentioned the possibility of arresting Netanyahu during the UN General Assembly in September. However, in a video message, Mamdani clarified that after reviewing all options, the city cannot carry out the arrest warrant.
President Donald Trump assured Netanyahu on social media that he would not be arrested while in the United States. The ICC had issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and others in 2024, alleging crimes against humanity related to the Gaza conflict. The court also accused them of using starvation as a method of warfare and deliberately targeting civilians, claims Israeli officials deny.
Mamdani reiterated his accusations against Netanyahu in the video, labeling him as the “architect of a horrific genocide.” The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in casualties on both sides, with humanitarian concerns raised by international bodies.
The ICC, established in 2002, has the authority to prosecute genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes globally. The United States and Israel are not members of the court, with past tensions between the ICC and the Trump administration over investigations into alleged misconduct.
Mamdani, New York City’s first Muslim mayor, has faced criticism from Israeli officials for his stance on the Netanyahu arrest warrant. He has built support among certain segments of the population, including Jewish voters who traditionally lean left.
As the political landscape evolves, Netanyahu faces re-election in Israel amidst ongoing international scrutiny over his actions in the Gaza conflict. The complexities of the situation highlight the challenges of balancing legal obligations, political dynamics, and international relations.
