NYC Mayor Accuses Netanyahu of Genocide, Cites ICC Warrant

New York City Mayor Eric Adams, in an exclusive interview with CNN's Christiane Amanpour, reiterated his strong accusations against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling him a "war criminal" and the "architect of a horrific genocide of the Palestinian people." Adams acknowledged he cannot fulfill a campaign promise to order Netanyahu's arrest during his upcoming visit to the UN General Assembly.

Adams explained that after reviewing the city's legal options, New York authorities lack the independent authority to execute an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant. Despite this, he believes the warrant should be honored to uphold trust in the political system and the principle of accountability. He also discussed the importance of the rule of law with the Mayor of The Hague, Jan van Zanen, stating that no one should be above the law if the ICC deems them subject to arrest.

Netanyahu is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly on Thursday, September 24th. CNN reports that several protests are planned in New York City against his arrival, though Adams stated he will not participate in them.

Separately, the New York Post highlighted a surprisingly warm meeting between Adams and U.S. President Donald Trump at Gracie Mansion. Trump praised Adams, expressing hope that he would "be a great mayor." The meeting, which lasted about 90 minutes, reportedly focused on immigration and federal support for the Sunnyside Yard development project in Queens.

This was not the first meeting between Trump and Adams, who previously exchanged harsh rhetoric. However, their recent encounters have been more amicable, with discussions covering city issues and their differing views on immigration and press restrictions. The New York Post noted that despite their improved personal relationship, Trump and Adams maintain fundamentally different stances on Israel, with Trump being a close ally of Netanyahu and Adams continuing his strong criticism.