Benjamin Netanyahu Says He Will Address UN Despite ICC Warrant and New York Opposition
Digital Desk
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said he plans to travel to New York to address the United Nations General Assembly, despite an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant and opposition from New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who has argued that Netanyahu should be arrested if he visits the city.
Speaking during an interview with Fox News, Netanyahu said he intends to present Israel's position before the UN and reaffirm the strength of the Israel-US alliance.
"I intend to come and speak the truth—speak for Israel and for the Israeli-American alliance from the podium of the United Nations," Netanyahu said.
ICC Warrant and Political Row
The proposed visit comes amid continuing international attention over the ICC warrant against Netanyahu. While the court's warrant has sparked diplomatic debate, US President Donald Trump recently stated that Netanyahu would not face arrest during any visit to the United States, dismissing concerns over possible legal action.
The issue has also intensified political tensions in New York after Mayor Zohran Mamdani suggested that legal options regarding Netanyahu's visit were still under consideration.
Netanyahu Targets Mamdani
During the interview, Netanyahu criticised Mamdani, accusing him of creating divisions within New York's communities.
"He’s fomenting hate. He’s supposed to be the mayor of all New Yorkers—Jews, Christians, Muslims, everyone," Netanyahu said, adding that many Jewish Americans had expressed concerns about the current political climate.
Survey Reflects Divided Opinion
An Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research survey conducted in June found mixed views among Jewish Americans regarding Mamdani. Around 44% viewed him favourably, while 39% held an unfavourable opinion.
The same survey also indicated that Netanyahu's popularity among Jewish Americans remains divided, with nearly 60% expressing an unfavourable opinion, while roughly one-third viewed him positively.
Netanyahu's proposed UN visit is expected to draw international attention as diplomatic, legal and political debates surrounding the ICC warrant continue.
