Israel's UN Envoy Slams NYC Mayor Ahead of Netanyahu Visit

Israel's Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, has accused New York City Mayor Eric Adams of inciting chaos and sowing discord ahead of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's upcoming visit for the UN General Assembly. Danon stated that Adams' calls for protests would make the city difficult for residents and visitors alike, but asserted that such actions would not deter the Prime Minister from attending and representing Israel.

Netanyahu himself criticized Adams, calling him a "hateful public servant" who pits New Yorkers against each other. Adams, when previously asked about protests against Netanyahu's visit, emphasized New York's commitment to the right to protest and the First Amendment. Adams' office declined to comment on whether he planned to meet with Netanyahu during the visit.

Danon also addressed Israel's ongoing military campaign, stating that it is crucial to "finish the job" against Hamas in Gaza, as there is no future for Israelis or Gazans if Hamas remains in power. He framed the fight against Iran, Hezbollah, and Hamas as a battle for Western democracies.

Meanwhile, former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani also criticized Adams' participation in 9/11 anniversary events. Giuliani, who was near the World Trade Center during the attacks, plans to attend memorial ceremonies despite recent hospitalization for pneumonia, which he attributes to toxin exposure on that day. Adams' office stated he would honor the victims and is scheduled to attend numerous memorial events, having previously designated September 11th as a permanent citywide day of remembrance and spoken about the Islamophobic backlash he and the Muslim community faced after the attacks.