Netanyahu's Plane to Divert from JFK Amidst Provocation Fears

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's official aircraft, "Wing of Zion," will not land at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) during his upcoming visit due to security concerns. Israeli security services decided against using JFK because of fears that Mayor Eric Adams would not permit the plane to remain on the tarmac for the duration of Netanyahu's stay, a privilege previously extended only to Israeli and Iranian leaders. Alternative landing sites, including Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey or a nearby military airfield, are being considered to allow the plane to stay on the ground throughout the visit.

Netanyahu is scheduled to arrive in the U.S. on Wednesday, September 23, to address the UN General Assembly on Thursday, September 24, at 2:00 PM local time. The visit will be under heightened security, with the U.S. Secret Service significantly increasing its protective detail for the prime minister. Protests against Netanyahu are planned by his opponents near his hotel and the UN building, while supporters will also hold demonstrations. Mayor Adams, who previously made statements about arresting Netanyahu but later retracted them, has urged residents to participate in protests against the Israeli leader, while also being responsible for overseeing the New York Police Department's security arrangements for the visit.

Israeli officials are also preparing for potential disruptions during Netanyahu's speech at the UN General Assembly, including delegates walking out or attempting to interrupt his address. A meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump is not scheduled, as Trump will depart New York before Netanyahu's arrival. However, Netanyahu may hold meetings with other world leaders. The prime minister is currently crafting his speech, which is intended primarily for an Israeli audience, aiming to highlight his achievements during the ongoing election campaign.

Netanyahu is expected to depart the U.S. on the evening of Thursday, September 24, to return to Israel before the Sukkot holiday, which begins on September 25 and concludes on October 2. The Prime Minister's Office declined to comment on the report.