Netanyahu Responds to Mamdani’s Arrest Remarks

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed his decision to attend the United Nations General Assembly, despite calls from New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani to enforce an International Criminal Court arrest warrant against him. On ‘Sunday Morning Futures,’ Netanyahu also addressed military strategies concerning Iran and Hezbollah.

Benjamin Netanyahu accused Mayor Zohran Mamdani of inciting hatred and divisiveness within New York. He argued that Mamdani’s rhetoric was making the Jewish community in New York feel unsafe.

“Look what he’s doing. He’s fomenting hate. He’s supposed to be the mayor of all New Yorkers, Jews, Christians, Muslims, everyone, but he’s trying to turn one group against the other,” Netanyahu told host Maria Bartiromo on the show.

Netanyahu mentioned that Jewish Americans in New York have expressed growing fears. He referenced a recent stabbing incident outside a Manhattan synagogue, where a Jewish man was attacked by Raul Morales, who reportedly shouted “Allahu Akbar.” Another stabbing involved a 57-year-old Asian man, possibly tied to similar rhetoric.

Mamdani admitted that the city lacks the authority to arrest Netanyahu but urged federal involvement. He labeled Netanyahu a “war criminal” and accused him of committing acts against the Palestinian people.

Despite Mamdani’s comments, Netanyahu stated his intent to visit New York for the UN assembly in September, emphasizing the importance of defending Israel and its U.S. ties.

Netanyahu remarked, “I’m not concerned [about Mamdani]. I’ve appeared just about every year… in my prime ministership, unless there are security conditions, but barring that… yes, I do intend to come to New York,” affirming his plan to attend.

The New York mayor’s office did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the situation.