Netanyahu: NYC mayor 'fomenting hate' with ICC arrest push

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday accused New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani of “fomenting hate” after the mayor called for his arrest over the war in Gaza, and dismissed the International Criminal Court's war-crimes charges as “bogus.” Netanyahu confirmed his plans to attend the United Nations General Assembly in September, pushing back against Mamdani's suggestion that he is not welcome in the city.

Netanyahu’s Accusation Against Mamdani

In an interview on Fox News, Netanyahu said Mamdani, the first Muslim mayor of New York City, should represent all New Yorkers — Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike — but instead is trying to turn groups against each other. Mamdani had previously stated that while New York lacks the authority to enforce an ICC arrest warrant, he encouraged the federal government to do so. Netanyahu characterized this as hate-mongering and said it undermines the unity that a mayor should foster. The prime minister also noted that Mamdani was elected to serve everyone, not to stoke division.

The ICC Warrants and Netanyahu’s Response

The ICC issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and other Israeli officials earlier this year over alleged war crimes in Gaza. Netanyahu has consistently rejected the court's jurisdiction and legitimacy, calling the charges politically motivated. In his Fox interview, he reiterated that the allegations are ‘bogus’ and that Israel is acting in self-defense. The United States is not a party to the Rome Statute that established the ICC, but the Biden administration has faced pressure to respond to the warrants. Netanyahu's dismissal of the charges aligns with his longstanding position that the ICC has no authority over Israel.

Broader Context of the Gaza War

The war in Gaza began after Hamas militants launched a deadly attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing over 1,200 people and taking hundreds hostage. Israel's subsequent military campaign has resulted in a high civilian death toll and widespread destruction, leading to accusations of war crimes from human rights groups and the ICC. Netanyahu has become a deeply polarizing figure, with critics accusing him of prolonging the conflict for political survival. The war has also strained Israel's relations with many nations and international institutions.

Implications for Netanyahu’s UN Visit

Netanyahu's plan to attend the UN General Assembly in September puts him in a potentially awkward position. Mayor Mamdani's call for his arrest, though largely symbolic, could galvanize protesters and draw international attention. The Israeli leader has historically used his UN appearances to advocate for his country's position, and this year's visit is expected to be no different. However, the backdrop of the ICC charges and the mayor's stance may overshadow his diplomatic efforts. The federal government has not indicated whether it would act on Mamdani's request, but experts say the chances of an arrest are minimal given U.S. policy. Nevertheless, the episode highlights the deepening divisions over the war and its key figures.

As September approaches, both Netanyahu and Mamdani are likely to continue their war of words. The dispute is emblematic of the broader polarization over the Israel-Gaza conflict, and the UN meeting will serve as a stage for both leaders to advance their narratives. The outcome of Netanyahu's visit — and whether it will be marred by protests or legal threats — remains to be seen.