Mamdani Reiterates Call for Netanyahu's Arrest During UN Visit to New York

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has once again sharply criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, saying he should be arrested if he visits New York to attend the United Nations General Assembly.

Speaking to CNN after a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump at Gracie Mansion on Monday, Mamdani said the issue was discussed during their conversation.

"I have said what I believe—that Benjamin Netanyahu is a war criminal and the principal architect of the devastating genocide against the Palestinian people," Mamdani said.

Mamdani has repeatedly called for Netanyahu's arrest during any visit to New York in recent months. However, he has no legal authority as mayor to order or carry out such an arrest. He recently acknowledged that he also has no power to prevent Netanyahu from visiting the city and said he would not participate in protests against the visit.

Referring to the arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC), Mamdani said the warrant should be respected and that all individuals facing such allegations should be brought before the law.

Established in 2002, the ICC prosecutes individuals accused of war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity when national authorities are unwilling or unable to do so under specific conditions. Neither the United States nor Israel is a member of the ICC. Israel also rejects the court's jurisdiction, arguing that because Palestine is not a sovereign state, the ICC has no authority over matters involving Palestinians.

Israel has also rejected allegations of genocide in Gaza, maintaining that it has taken extensive measures to minimize civilian casualties and accusing Hamas of using civilians as human shields.

Netanyahu is scheduled to address the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday. He is expected to arrive in New York on Wednesday and depart on Friday. As of now, no meeting between Netanyahu and President Trump has been scheduled on the sidelines of the UN gathering.

Meanwhile, Trump and Mamdani discussed immigration enforcement and affordable housing initiatives for working families during their meeting. Trump expressed optimism about Mamdani's leadership, saying, "I hope you'll be a great mayor. You've gotten off to a good start."

Mamdani said his administration values the president's commitment to New York City and would continue engaging with Trump despite political differences if it benefits New Yorkers.

The meeting marked their first face-to-face encounter in the Oval Office since Mamdani's election victory last year.