Netanyahu's Plane to Skip NYC's JFK Airport Amid Security Concerns

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's plane will not land at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport during his upcoming visit due to security concerns, sources told Ynet. The decision stems from fears that New York City Mayor Eric Adams might not allow the Israeli prime minister's plane, "Wing of Zion," to remain on the tarmac for the duration of his stay, a privilege previously reserved for leaders of Israel and Iran.

Netanyahu is scheduled to arrive in New York next Wednesday to address the UN General Assembly on Thursday. The visit will be under unprecedented security measures, with the U.S. Secret Service significantly increasing its involvement in protecting the prime minister from arrival to departure. The visit is expected to be met with both protests and counter-demonstrations by the Jewish community. Mayor Adams, who previously stated he would detain Netanyahu but later retracted, is encouraging public protests against the prime minister, despite his role as the de facto head of the NYPD, which will also be securing the visit.

To ensure the plane can remain on the ground throughout the visit, alternative landing sites are being considered, including Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey or a nearby military airfield. Netanyahu's address at the UN is scheduled for Thursday at 2 p.m. (9 p.m. Israel time). Israeli officials are preparing for potential provocations from delegates during his speech, including walkouts or attempts to disrupt his address.

Netanyahu is not expected to meet with President Donald Trump, who will depart New York before the prime minister's arrival, though some meetings with other leaders may occur. The prime minister is currently working on his speech, which is intended primarily for the Israeli public amid the ongoing election campaign, aiming to showcase his achievements. He is scheduled to depart the U.S. Thursday night to return to Israel before the Sukkot holiday.

The Prime Minister's Office declined to comment on the details of the visit.