Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to speak at the U.N. General Assembly later this month. This decision follows New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani's call for his arrest over allegations related to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, according to Israel's U.N. envoy, Ambassador Danny Danon. Danon criticized Mamdani's remarks, which labeled Netanyahu a 'war criminal' and called for his arrest, stating that such actions are politically motivated. He emphasized the importance of Netanyahu's attendance at the assembly.
Mamdani's office did not respond to requests for comment. He has referenced an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) against Netanyahu in November 2024, which accuses him of crimes against humanity. The ICC claims there is evidence that Netanyahu has used starvation as a weapon of warfare and has intentionally targeted civilians in Gaza, allegations that Israel denies.
Although New York City lacks the authority to enforce an ICC arrest warrant, Mamdani has urged the federal government to consider action. The U.S. and Israel are not members of the ICC, and the Trump administration previously imposed sanctions on ICC personnel.
Netanyahu is expected to arrive in New York on September 23, address the assembly on September 24, and return to Israel the same day. Danon mentioned that the assembly coincides with Jewish holidays and an election campaign, as Netanyahu seeks to maintain his position as prime minister. He expressed concerns that protests against Netanyahu could disrupt the assembly proceedings.
Last year, Netanyahu faced a walkout during his speech at the U.N. General Assembly, and Danon anticipates similar disruptions this year but expressed confidence in Netanyahu's ability to deliver his address.