Benjamin Netanyahu Criticizes New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani for Labeling Him a War Criminal
Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani as a source of division for labeling the Israeli prime minister a war criminal. During an appearance on Fox News, Netanyahu stated that Mamdani is fomenting hate by suggesting the prime minister should be arrested for his role in the Gaza war. While Mamdani acknowledged that New York City lacks the legal authority to execute the International Criminal Court's warrant, he urged the federal government to take action. Netanyahu characterized the charges as bogus and highlighted the sexual misconduct allegations against the ICC's top prosecutor as a distraction. The prime minister expressed concern over the rising antisemitism in the United States and the risk of losing bipartisan support for Israel. He noted that Jews in New York City feel uncomfortable with the current rhetoric. In response to the mayor's comments, Donald Trump stated in a social media post that Netanyahu will not be arrested while in the United States. Netanyahu is scheduled to visit Washington this week to meet with Donald Trump and attend the funeral of the late Senator Lindsey Graham.