Netanyahu Faces Criticism but Vows to Attend UN Event

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced he plans to attend the United Nations General Assembly in New York City, despite New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s remarks. Mamdani had labeled Netanyahu a ‘war criminal’ due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The mayor suggested Netanyahu should be arrested if he visits the city, although New York lacks the legal authority to enforce such an arrest.

Netanyahu addressed these accusations during an interview on Fox News Channel’s ‘Sunday Morning Futures.’ He criticized Mamdani for inciting division among New Yorkers of different faiths. The accusations against Netanyahu and the war in Gaza have polarized opinions towards his leadership. The war began after Hamas militants attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023. Israel also engaged in conflicts with Iran and launched a ground invasion in southern Lebanon in response to Hezbollah’s actions.

Netanyahu dismissed the International Criminal Court’s charges against him, citing the recent removal of the ICC’s top prosecutor. He labeled these charges as an attempt to divert attention. The mayor’s office did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Sunday.

Bipartisan U.S. support for Israel is waning, according to Netanyahu. He expressed concern that political support in the U.S., once bipartisan, is now divided, especially among progressive Democrats.

Netanyahu warned about rising antisemitism in Western countries. He stated that Jews in New York City, which hosts the second-largest Jewish population globally, are feeling increasingly uncomfortable.

Mayor Mamdani maintained his stance during his mayoral campaign, promising to order the city’s police to execute the ICC’s arrest warrant on Netanyahu. Last week, Mamdani admitted New York City cannot legally arrest Netanyahu and urged federal enforcement of the warrant. Mamdani reiterated his belief that Netanyahu, and any other alleged war criminals, should not be welcome in New York City. He ensured citizens that the city respects expressions of protest.

The Hague-based court charged Netanyahu and others with crimes against humanity. The Palestinian Health Ministry reports over 73,000 deaths in Gaza, nearly half being women and children. The initial attack by Hamas resulted in 1,200 deaths, mostly civilians.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump assured Netanyahu that he would not face arrest in the U.S. Netanyahu plans to visit Washington for a meeting with Trump and attend the funeral of the late Republican Senator Lindsey Graham. Graham was recognized as a strong advocate for Israel before his unexpected death due to a likely torn aorta.