Zohran Mamdani Says New York City Cannot Enforce ICC Warrant Against Benjamin Netanyahu
New York City Reviews Legal Authority Over ICC Arrest Warrant
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani said the city does not have the legal authority to enforce the International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant issued for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In a video statement posted on X, Mamdani said his administration reviewed available legal options before concluding that enforcement of an ICC warrant falls under federal jurisdiction rather than municipal authority.
He urged the U.S. federal government to consider joining the ICC and determine whether to execute the warrant if Netanyahu travels to the United States. Mamdani also stated that Netanyahu is "not welcome" in New York City, referencing the ICC's allegations.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani called on the US government to enforce the ICC's arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, citing alleged war crimes during the Gaza war. ICC issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu in 2024 https://t.co/WgPSj5drWh pic.twitter.com/B6poNkvtbg
— Reuters (@Reuters) July 22, 2026
ICC Warrant Continues to Generate International Debate
The ICC issued arrest warrants in 2024 for Netanyahu and former Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, alleging crimes against humanity and war crimes related to Israel's military campaign in Gaza. Prosecutors cited allegations including the use of starvation as a method of warfare and intentional attacks on civilians.
Israeli officials have rejected the allegations, disputed the court's jurisdiction, and denied wrongdoing. Both Israel and the United States are not members of the ICC and do not recognize its jurisdiction over the case.
UN General Assembly Visit May Renew Focus
The issue has gained renewed attention because Netanyahu traditionally attends the United Nations General Assembly in New York each September.
Former President Donald Trump also commented on the matter, stating that Netanyahu would not be arrested while in the United States. With differing legal and political positions continuing to emerge, discussions surrounding the ICC warrant are expected to remain a prominent topic ahead of the UN General Assembly.
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