NYC Mayor Calls Netanyahu "War Criminal" Ahead of UN Visit

New York City Mayor Eric Adams described Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a "war criminal" and "architect of a horrific genocide against Palestinians" in a CNN interview. Adams' remarks came as Netanyahu prepared to visit New York for the UN General Assembly. The mayor stated he supports the International Criminal Court's (ICC) 2024 arrest warrant for Netanyahu, though he acknowledged that his office lacks the authority to enforce it. Adams questioned why anyone would be placed above international law, referencing the ICC's charges of war crimes against the Israeli leader.

The mayor's comments followed a meeting with former US President Donald Trump at Gracie Mansion. Trump had previously stated that Netanyahu "will not be arrested in any way, shape, or form" if he visited the US, a stance contrasting with Adams' support for the ICC warrant.

Netanyahu is scheduled for a brief visit to the US to address the UN General Assembly. The trip is anticipated to involve heightened security due to expected protests in New York related to the ongoing war in Gaza. Mayor Adams clarified that while he would not personally participate in demonstrations against Netanyahu, he would protect New Yorkers' constitutional right to protest.

Protests against Netanyahu are expected during his UN address, with some Jewish community groups planning supportive events. One organization, "Unacceptable," announced a protest at Union Square, with its founder Ofir Guttelzon indicating protests would accompany the prime minister's visit. Netanyahu's schedule for meetings with US officials during the visit remains unclear, with reports suggesting he has not been able to arrange meetings with Trump or senior administration officials.