Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismisses New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani’s warning to arrest him during a U.S. visit, calling it “silly” and “folly.” Netanyahu makes these remarks during a White House dinner with former President Donald Trump, saying he’s “not concerned” about the threat and confirming plans to visit New York
with President Trump.
Mamdani, a progressive Democrat who recently wins his party’s primary, cites the International Criminal Court’s 2024 arrest warrant alleging war crimes in Gaza as his justification. He declares, “As mayor, New York City would arrest Benjamin Netanyahu,” referencing international law as the foundation of his threat.
In response, Trump stands by Netanyahu, saying, “I’ll get him out,” and labeling Mamdani a “communist” with what he describes as troubling views on Jewish people. Trump also warns that he would consider leveraging federal funding if Mamdani attempts to act on his statement, according to his remarks covered by
NDTV.
Netanyahu downplays the incident, remarking that there’s “enough craziness in the world” and expressing full confidence in visiting New York alongside Trump. He shifts focus to more urgent issues, such as ongoing efforts to broker a ceasefire with Hamas, as reported by
Fox News.
Mamdani remains unwavering in his stance, emphasizing adherence to international law and advocacy for Palestinian rights. However, as both Netanyahu and Trump mock the arrest threat, the exchange increasingly appears to be more symbolic posturing than a viable legal confrontation.
This moment illustrates ongoing tension between local American political rhetoric and international diplomacy. Mamdani’s threat, while headline-grabbing, seems to reflect progressive posturing more than enforceable policy—at least for now.
