Dispute Arises Over ICC Warrant on Netanyahu

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office criticizes New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani for deflecting from his own record in New York by labeling Netanyahu a “war criminal.” The dispute escalated after Mamdani suggested considering an arrest of the Israeli leader during an anticipated visit to New York under an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant.

In response, Netanyahu’s office dismissed the ICC as lacking jurisdiction over Americans or Israelis. The office called the arrest warrant “bogus,” noting that it was issued by former ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan before allegations of sexual misconduct against him emerged. They accused Khan of attempting to divert public attention and urged Mamdani to focus on New York’s issues instead of attacking Netanyahu.

Netanyahu’s administration maintained it would disregard the ICC warrant while continuing efforts against Hamas in Gaza. Netanyahu’s office emphasized measures taken to protect civilians during these operations against Hamas, labeling it a terrorist group.

Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo criticized Mamdani’s statement as political theatrics, implying that the mayor had no real capability to implement such an arrest. He dismissed the arrest suggestion as merely seeking attention.

Others within the political sphere, including Democrats, expressed disapproval of Mamdani’s stance. Former Democrat Mayor Eric Adams described Mamdani’s threats as reckless and warned of the potential risks to American personnel abroad due to such rhetoric. He emphasized that leadership demands careful consideration of the implications of one’s words.

Additionally, Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania rejected the notion of adopting an “anti-Israel” stance, advising Mamdani to concentrate on New York’s local issues instead of engaging in international matters beyond his jurisdiction.