President Donald Trump has assured that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will face no arrest during any visit to the United States, countering calls linked to an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant. This statement comes in response to New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s earlier remarks, where he expressed intentions to explore legal avenues concerning Netanyahu’s anticipated visit to New York for the UN General Assembly in September. Mamdani has been vocal about his belief that Netanyahu should be held accountable for alleged war crimes in Gaza.
In a social media post, Trump firmly stated that Netanyahu “will not be arrested in any way, shape, or form” while on U.S. soil. He also took the opportunity to criticize Iran and emphasized Netanyahu’s importance in regional security issues. Meanwhile, legal experts have raised doubts about the ability of New York City authorities to detain a foreign leader. The United States, not being a member of the ICC, has laws that prevent local governments from collaborating with the court.
The ICC issued arrest warrants in 2024 for Netanyahu and former Israeli defense minister Yoav Gallant, accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity. Both Israel and the United States have dismissed these allegations. The Trump administration has maintained a firm stance against the ICC, having imposed sanctions on the court earlier this year, deeming its actions as a threat to U.S. sovereignty.
Netanyahu’s office responded to Mayor Mamdani’s comments by urging him to concentrate on local matters affecting New York City rather than legal actions against the Israeli leader. This exchange underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding Netanyahu’s international engagements amid the ICC’s charges.