Zohran Mamdani, the Mayor of New York City, has withdrawn his earlier pledge to arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during his upcoming visit to the city in September.
Mamdani took to X on Tuesday and explained that his office does not have the independent legal authority to carry out the arrest warrant. He instead called on the federal government to join the International Criminal Court (ICC) and enforce the warrant.
In a video shared on X, Mamdani stated, “It is clear that we do not have the independent legal authority to enforce this warrant. The federal government, however, does.”
“And I call on them to join the ICC [International Criminal Court] and execute this warrant.” he added.
Mamdani reaffirmed his support for the ICC’s stance that Netanyahu should be arrested and tried for his alleged crimes. He also mentioned that his administration had explored all possible legal “avenues” for the arrest.
He further urged the world to acknowledge the destruction Netanyahu has caused and insisted that he should be held accountable in a court of law.
“And I want to be equally clear: Benjamin Netanyahu is not welcome in New York City, nor is any other war criminal at large,” Mamdani added.
Why Mamdani Can’t Arrest Netanyahu
This development comes after President Donald Trump voiced his support for Netanyahu in the face of Mamdani’s threats of arrest. Trump stated on Truth Social, “Benjamin Netanyahu will not be arrested, in any way, shape, or form, while in the United States of America.”
CNN chief legal analyst Laura Coates had earlier explained that NYC Mayor has no authority to arrest the Israeli leader. She cited three reasons: the U.S. does not recognize or enforce International Criminal Court warrants, only the federal government, not state or local officials, can handle such foreign affairs, and the U.N. Headquarters Agreement grants Netanyahu diplomatic immunity while visiting the United States.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image via Shutterstock
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