Israeli PM Netanyahu, NYC Mayor Mamdani Clash Over ICC Arrest Warrant Threat

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office has accused New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani of using criticism of the Jewish state to deflect from his own record in New York. This follows Mamdani’s statement calling Netanyahu a ‘war criminal’ and considering whether the city could arrest the Israeli leader during an anticipated visit under the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) warrant.

Netanyahu’s office responded on Sunday, dismissing the ICC as a ‘kangaroo court’ with no jurisdiction over Americans or Israelis. This occurred amid reports of Netanyahu preparing for a trip to the White House to meet with President Donald Trump. The office criticized the ICC’s warrant against Netanyahu, issued by former Prosecutor Karim Khan, days before allegations of sexual misconduct surfaced against him. The statement suggests Khan sought to deflect public attention and escape scrutiny.

Instead of supporting Khan’s actions, Mr. Mamdani should address the issues his policies have caused in New York, added Netanyahu’s office.

Israel rejected the ICC warrant, as it continues operations against Hamas, described as a ‘genocidal terrorist organization,’ in Gaza. Under Netanyahu’s leadership, the office claimed, Israel aims to minimize civilian harm while confronting Hamas, known for using Palestinians as human shields and targeting innocent Israeli civilians.

Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo criticized Mamdani, describing the situation as ‘political theater.’ Pompeo emphasized that Mamdani, referred to as a ‘communist, antisemitic mayor,’ is unlikely to arrest Netanyahu during his upcoming visit to New York for the U.N. General Assembly.

Even some Democrats have opposed Mamdani’s position, arguing it could encourage terrorism. Former New York City Mayor Eric Adams highlighted concerns, stating that threatening to arrest the leader of a key ally is ‘reckless’ and could endanger Americans abroad. Adams noted the importance of understanding the real-world consequences of such rhetoric.

Senator John Fetterman criticized Mamdani’s stance, labeling him a ‘clown’ and advising him to address New York’s issues instead. Fetterman emphasized that the U.S. is not a part of the ICC, and Mamdani’s comments are out of his jurisdiction.

Eric Mack is a breaking news reporter with a focus on politics, elections, foreign affairs, and government.