Trump Rejects New York Mayor’s Threat to Arrest Netanyahu During U.S. Visit

U.S. President Donald Trump firmly denied any possibility that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would be arrested while in the United States, responding directly to a threat made by New York City Mayor Eric Adams. Adams had stated he intended to pursue Netanyahu's arrest upon his arrival in New York City in September for the United Nations General Assembly, citing an international arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague. Trump posted on his social media platform Truth Social that Netanyahu would not be detained under any circumstances during his U.S. stay, emphasizing Netanyahu’s role in fighting against the Islamic Republic of Iran, which Trump accused of killing American soldiers and innocent protesters over decades. Trump stated, "The only people who should be arrested are those who led Iran into this unprecedented spiral of death and destruction."

Mayor Adams acknowledged legal uncertainties about whether he could order the arrest of a foreign head of state, noting ongoing discussions within the city’s legal department. However, U.S. legal experts have already indicated that arresting Netanyahu would be practically impossible and potentially illegal, as the United States does not recognize the ICC’s jurisdiction. The mayor’s comments followed his campaign promise to seek Netanyahu’s arrest based on the ICC warrant. Trump’s unequivocal rebuttal underscores the U.S. administration’s support for Netanyahu amid the controversy.

The situation highlights tensions between local New York officials, international legal mechanisms, and U.S. federal policy regarding foreign dignitaries. Netanyahu’s planned attendance at the UN General Assembly remains scheduled for September, with no indication of any legal action against him during his visit.