New York Mayor Maimon Discusses Possible Arrest of Netanyahu During UN Visit

New York Mayor Zohran Maimon told The New York Times that he is actively discussing the possibility of arresting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he attends the UN General Assembly in New York this September. Maimon expressed uncertainty about his legal authority to order the New York Police Department to detain a foreign leader but said he is consulting the city's legal department on the matter. He emphasized that any actions taken would comply strictly with local law and rejected creating new laws for this purpose. Maimon stated, "I believe Netanyahu belongs in The Hague," referring to the International Criminal Court, where Netanyahu has been accused of war crimes.

During his mayoral campaign last year, Maimon had previously vowed to instruct police to arrest Netanyahu. The Israeli Prime Minister dismissed these threats, accusing Maimon of supporting Hamas and criticizing him for condemning Israel while defending a group responsible for deadly attacks against Jews. Netanyahu also claimed that Maimon harbors animosity toward America.

Israeli officials responded sharply: Israel's Consul in New York, Ofir Akunis, said the mayor has no authority to order Netanyahu's arrest and should focus on managing New York City. Israeli Ambassador to the UN Danny Danon condemned Maimon for failing to address rising antisemitism in the city and accused him of inciting hostility against Israel. Danon affirmed Netanyahu's planned UN speech would proudly present Israel's position to the world.

The New York Times noted Maimon condemned the October 7 Hamas attack, but when questioned about a social media post by Maimon's wife, Rama Dawaji, celebrating the attack, Maimon distanced himself, calling her an independent artist. Dawaji later apologized for the post.