New York Mayor Mamdani Says He Cannot Enforce ICC Arrest Warrant Against Netanyahu

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani acknowledged on the night of July 22, 2026, that he lacks the legal authority to enforce the International Criminal Court's arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In a video statement, Mamdani described Netanyahu as a war criminal responsible for atrocities against the Palestinian people, including the deaths of over 73,000 individuals and attacks on hospitals and humanitarian workers. He emphasized that despite his administration exploring every possible legal avenue, they cannot independently enforce the ICC's warrant if Netanyahu visits New York.

Mamdani called on the U.S. federal government, specifically the Trump administration, to act on the ICC's warrant and declared Netanyahu unwelcome in New York City. His remarks sparked strong responses from Israeli officials. Israeli Ambassador to the UN Danny Danon condemned Mamdani's statements as blood libels and propaganda, urging him to focus on serving New Yorkers rather than aligning with Hamas narratives. Similarly, Israeli Ambassador to Washington Yehiel Leiter accused Mamdani of antisemitism, comparing his accusations to historical communist scapegoating of Jews.

U.S. President Donald Trump also weighed in, stating unequivocally that Netanyahu would not be arrested under any circumstances. Trump criticized Iran as the true source of violence and death, highlighting its recent killing of 52,000 protesters and decades-long hostility toward American soldiers.

In an interview with The New York Times, Mamdani reiterated his desire to see Netanyahu arrested if he attends the UN General Assembly in September but admitted uncertainty about his legal power to direct the New York Police Department to detain a foreign leader. He noted ongoing discussions with the city's legal department regarding the matter.