New York Mayor Calls Netanyahu 'War Criminal' Ahead of UN Visit

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has labeled Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a "war criminal" and the "architect of a horrific genocide against the Palestinian people." Adams made these remarks in an interview with CNN, broadcast as Netanyahu prepared to travel to the United States for the 81st session of the UN General Assembly in New York.

Adams questioned why anyone should be considered above accountability if the International Criminal Court (ICC) deems individuals worthy of arrest for violating international laws. The ICC previously issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant in November 2024, accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.

While Adams stated that New York City lacks the legal authority to enforce an ICC arrest warrant, he reiterated his previous declaration that Netanyahu is "unwelcome" in the city and urged the U.S. federal government to execute the international warrant. Israel and the U.S. are not members of the ICC, and Washington imposed sanctions on ICC officials following the issuance of the warrants.

Netanyahu is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly on Friday. Reports indicate that Netanyahu plans to shorten his visit and avoid overnight stays in New York due to fears of protests. His plane is expected to land in New Jersey instead of New York's JFK Airport, possibly to avoid a situation where the mayor could order the plane to depart immediately.

Public opinion in the U.S., particularly among young people, has shown a notable shift in favor of supporting Palestinian rights amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The U.S. has consistently provided military, financial, and diplomatic support to Israel, including protection from accountability at the UN Security Council through its veto power. Netanyahu is expected to arrive in the U.S. on the morning of his UN address and depart immediately afterward.