Mamdani says New York City does not have legal authority to arrest Netanyahu

Published: Wednesday, July 22, 2026 at 1:08 am

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has stated that he lacks the legal authority to arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu should he visit the United States. Mamdani made these remarks on Tuesday, acknowledging that while his administration has explored all legal avenues, New York City cannot independently enforce an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court.

Mamdani has been vocal in his condemnation of Prime Minister Netanyahu, referring to him as a "war criminal" and the "architect of a horrific genocide against the Palestinian people." He expressed his belief that the International Criminal Court's arrest warrant for alleged war crimes is justified. However, he clarified that the enforcement of such a warrant falls outside the jurisdiction of New York City.

Instead, Mamdani urged United States federal authorities to take action. He called upon the federal government to join the International Criminal Court and execute the warrant if Prime Minister Netanyahu enters the country. Mamdani also made it clear that Netanyahu is not welcome in New York City, nor are any other individuals he deems to be war criminals at large.

Benjamin Netanyahu is anticipated to travel to New York in September for the United Nations General Assembly. Mamdani's comments follow his pledge during his mayoral campaign last year to review the possibility of arresting Netanyahu during such a visit. Mamdani reiterated his stance that Prime Minister Netanyahu "belongs in The Hague," the location of the International Criminal Court, which issued the arrest warrant in 2024. It is important to note that the United States does not recognize the International Criminal Court's authority and is not a signatory to its treaty.

The mayor's statements have drawn criticism, notably from President Donald Trump. Trump asserted that Netanyahu will not be arrested on American soil, arguing that Netanyahu is engaged in a fight against Iran and that those responsible for Iran's current state of conflict should be the ones facing arrest. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Netanyahu has reportedly indicated that he is not concerned by Mamdani's remarks.

BNN's Perspective: Mayor Mamdani's public stance highlights a complex intersection of local political sentiment, international legal frameworks, and national sovereignty. While his personal convictions are clear, his acknowledgment of the limitations of his office underscores the practical realities of enforcing international warrants within the United States, particularly given the US's non-recognition of the International Criminal Court. The situation also reveals a divergence of opinions on the international stage and within American politics regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the role of international justice mechanisms.

Tags: Zohran Mamdani, New York City, Benjamin Netanyahu, arrest warrant, International Criminal Court, war crimes, federal authorities, United Nations General Assembly, Donald Trump, Iran

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