New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani has said that New York City lacks the legal authority to execute the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, while urging the US federal government to take action instead.

In a video statement shared on social media, Mamdani said his administration had examined the legal options before concluding that the city’s powers do not extend to enforcing ICC warrants.

Calls on Federal Government to Act

While ruling out any direct action by New York City, Mamdani reiterated his view that Netanyahu should face legal proceedings under the ICC warrant.

He argued that the federal government has the authority to decide how the United States responds and called on Washington to cooperate with the international court.

Mamdani also stated that Netanyahu was “not welcome” in New York City, describing him as a “war criminal.”

Previous Remarks Sparked Debate

Earlier this month, Mamdani had indicated that his administration was exploring whether legal action could be taken if Netanyahu attended the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

During his mayoral campaign, he had also suggested directing city police to arrest the Israeli leader under the ICC warrant, comments that drew widespread attention.

His latest statement clarifies that, after legal review, the city concluded it does not possess the authority to enforce such an order.

Trump and Israel Respond

US President Donald Trump stated that Netanyahu would not be arrested while in the United States, without directly mentioning Mamdani.

Israel’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, strongly criticised the mayor’s remarks, accusing him of promoting anti-Israel rhetoric and urging him to focus on governing New York City.

Background to the ICC Warrant

The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants in 2024 for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant over alleged crimes against humanity linked to the war in Gaza.

The court alleged there were reasonable grounds to believe humanitarian aid restrictions and attacks on civilians violated international law. Israeli officials have rejected the allegations and denied any wrongdoing.

The legal and diplomatic dispute continues to fuel international debate over the ICC’s jurisdiction and the enforcement of its warrants.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What did Zohran Mamdani say about the ICC warrant?

Zohran Mamdani said New York City does not have the legal authority to enforce the ICC arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Can New York City arrest Benjamin Netanyahu under the ICC warrant?

According to Mamdani, the city lacks independent legal authority to execute the ICC warrant, making it a matter for the US federal government.

Why is there an ICC warrant against Benjamin Netanyahu?

The ICC issued arrest warrants in 2024 alleging crimes against humanity related to the Gaza conflict. Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant deny the allegations.

How did Donald Trump respond?

Donald Trump said Netanyahu would not be arrested while in the United States, indicating that such action would not occur during any US visit.

How did Israel react to Mamdani’s comments?

Israel’s UN Ambassador Danny Danon criticised Mamdani’s remarks, accusing him of spreading anti-Israel messaging and urging him to focus on serving New York residents.