New York Mayor Meddani Threatens to Arrest Netanyahu at UN General Assembly

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani has publicly stated that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu belongs in The Hague and is engaged in discussions to facilitate his arrest during Netanyahu's expected visit to the UN General Assembly in New York this September. Mamdani, who made similar promises before his election, referred to Netanyahu as a "war criminal" accused by the International Criminal Court (ICC) and accused him of committing genocide in Gaza.

In an interview with The New York Times, Mamdani acknowledged legal uncertainties about whether the New York Police Department could arrest a sitting foreign head of state, noting ongoing discussions within the city's legal department. He emphasized his intent to enforce the ICC's arrest warrant immediately upon Netanyahu's arrival in New York.

However, legal experts in the United States have indicated that such an arrest would be practically impossible and potentially illegal, as the U.S. does not recognize the ICC's jurisdiction. Mamdani also mentioned he would take similar action against Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is also subject to an ICC arrest warrant. This development adds tension ahead of the UN General Assembly, where Netanyahu is expected to attend.