Mamdani Responds to Netanyahu's Accusations Ahead of UN Visit

<p>New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani responded to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday after Netanyahu accused him of supporting Hamas and inciting unrest against Jewish New Yorkers. This exchange occurs just days before Netanyahu's scheduled visit to New York City.</p><p>In response to reporters' questions about Netanyahu's video, Mamdani denied the accusations. He stated, "We all know that what the prime minister has said in that video is not true. What we do know to actually be the truth when it comes to the prime minister is that he is the subject of an International Criminal Court arrest warrant for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity."</p><p>The ICC issued the arrest warrant in November 2024 regarding alleged war crimes, which Netanyahu and the Israeli government have rejected.</p><p>Mamdani further accused Netanyahu of being responsible for violence against Palestinians, stating, "And as the prime minister, he is the architect of horrific genocide against Palestinians. And just a few days ago, his military killed an 11-year-old boy in what is deemed to be a safe zone in Gaza. So that is what I have to say to his video."</p><p>Netanyahu, in his video, criticized Mamdani, saying, "Shame on you, Mr. Mamdani. Shame on you for supporting the Hamas terrorist monsters who butchered our people. Shame on you for inciting riots against New York Jews." He added that he would present the truth about Mamdani during his speech at the U.N.</p><p>This exchange is part of an ongoing public feud between the two leaders. Earlier this year, Mamdani considered whether New York City could execute the ICC warrant against Netanyahu, but later acknowledged that the city could not enforce the warrant independently.</p><p>Mamdani has previously labeled Netanyahu a "war criminal" and stated that he is "not welcome" in New York City. He has defended the right of New Yorkers to protest during Netanyahu's visit, although he clarified that he does not encourage demonstrations.</p><p>When asked about protests, Mamdani emphasized, "One of the bedrocks of our city is protest. It is something that has been a part of what makes our city so special, that New Yorkers can express themselves whether they are in support or in opposition no matter on whatever topic."</p><p>After a meeting with President Donald Trump on Monday, Mamdani stated that their conversation focused on issues affecting New York City, including affordability and economic development, and reiterated his stance on Netanyahu.</p>