New York Mayor Says He Lacks Authority to Arrest Netanyahu Despite ICC Warrant

New York Mayor Eric Adams acknowledged on July 22 that he does not have the legal authority to arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he visits the city. Adams made the statement in a video posted on his X account, explaining that while his administration explored all possible avenues to enforce the International Criminal Court's arrest warrant against Netanyahu, the city lacks exclusive jurisdiction to carry it out.

Adams emphasized that the U.S. federal government holds the necessary authority and urged it to join the ICC and execute the arrest warrant. He also declared that Netanyahu is "not welcome in New York," along with any other alleged war criminals evading justice. The remarks come ahead of Netanyahu's planned trip to New York in September to attend the United Nations General Assembly.

In the video, Adams labeled Netanyahu a war criminal and criticized Israel's actions in Gaza. He concluded by calling for an end to silence on such issues and pledged to use all available means to uphold human dignity.

Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump responded to Adams' threats by asserting on Truth Social that Netanyahu will not be arrested while in the United States. Trump praised Netanyahu's stance against Iran and blamed Iranian leadership for widespread violence and deaths.

Last week, Adams had stated that Netanyahu belongs in The Hague and was engaged in discussions about facilitating his arrest. However, legal consultations within the city's justice department have clarified that New York City police cannot detain a foreign head of state, leaving the matter to federal authorities.