Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sharply criticised New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, accusing him of fuelling hatred after the politician suggested he would have Netanyahu arrested if he visited the city, citing an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Mamdani, the Democratic nominee for New York City mayor, said he would honour the ICC warrant by directing local authorities to cooperate with efforts to arrest the Israeli leader should he travel to the city.
The remarks sparked a swift response from Netanyahu, who described the comments as inflammatory and accused Mamdani of encouraging hostility against Israel and the Jewish community.
The ICC issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant in November 2024 over alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity linked to the conflict in Gaza. Israel has strongly rejected the allegations, arguing that the court lacks jurisdiction and insisting its military operations comply with international law.
The United States does not recognise the jurisdiction of the ICC over its citizens or those of Israel, adding another layer of complexity to any potential enforcement of the warrants.
Mamdani’s comments have intensified political debate in the United States, with supporters arguing that international law should be upheld, while critics say the remarks risk deepening divisions over the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict.
The latest exchange underscores the growing international and domestic political tensions surrounding the ICC’s actions and the continuing war in Gaza.
