NYC mayor weighs Netanyahu arrest

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has said his administration is examining whether it has the legal authority to arrest Israeli Prime Minister

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has said his administration is examining whether it has the legal authority to arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he visits the city.

Mamdani said he is in discussions with the city’s Law Department to determine what action can legally be taken under existing laws.

Netanyahu is facing an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) over allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity linked to Israel’s military campaign in Gaza.

In an interview, Mamdani said he believes Netanyahu should face justice in The Hague and referred to the ICC proceedings against the Israeli prime minister.

The mayor said many people hold similar views because of the impact of Israel’s actions in Gaza over recent years.

However, Mamdani admitted that it remains uncertain whether he has the authority to direct the New York Police Department to detain a foreign leader.

He said his administration would only act within the limits of the law and would not create separate rules for the situation.

During his election campaign, Mamdani had pledged to seek Netanyahu’s arrest if he entered New York City.

Netanyahu responded by saying he was not worried about the possibility and accused Mamdani of supporting Hamas. Mamdani has previously rejected Hamas and called it a terrorist organisation.

The issue has gained attention ahead of the upcoming United Nations General Assembly session, where Netanyahu is expected to visit New York.

Mamdani has also criticised US military support for Israel, questioning the spending of billions of dollars while domestic issues remain unresolved.

The controversy highlights growing political divisions in the United States over its approach to Israel’s actions in Gaza and continued military assistance to the country.