Netanyahu's Office Criticizes New York Mayor Over Arrest Warrant Remarks

The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has criticized New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani after he suggested he might enforce an arrest warrant against Netanyahu during an upcoming United Nations summit. In a statement, Netanyahu’s office accused Mamdani of attacking the Jewish state to distract from problems his policies have caused in New York. The remarks came after Mamdani said he is considering whether to arrest Netanyahu when the Israeli leader visits New York for the UN gathering. Netanyahu’s office compared Mamdani to the International Criminal Court prosecutor Karim Khan, alleging both are trying to shift public attention from their own failures. The exchange adds tension to Netanyahu’s planned trip, which is expected to draw protests and legal challenges. The Israeli PM’s office urged Mamdani to focus on governing New York rather than targeting Israel. Mamdani, a progressive Democrat, has been critical of Israel’s actions in Gaza. The situation remains diplomatic, with no official arrest request yet. Netanyahu has faced international criticism over the Gaza war but maintains support from the US government. The UN summit is scheduled for later this month.