New York City Mayor Mamdani Addresses Protests During Netanyahu's Upcoming Visit

<p>New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani stated on Wednesday that he does not plan to attend protests during Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s upcoming visit to New York for the United Nations General Assembly. He also denied having encouraged New Yorkers to protest Netanyahu.</p><p>This statement follows Mamdani's earlier comments in July, where he affirmed that New Yorkers had the right to protest Netanyahu’s visit and that he would leave the decision to the public.</p><p>"I do not have any plans to attend any protest at the UNGA," Mamdani said. "To New Yorkers I have never encouraged them to protest. What I have always told them is that they have the right to do so in this city."</p><p>Mamdani and Netanyahu have had disagreements regarding the Israeli leader’s anticipated visit since July, when Mamdani requested his administration to review applicable law to assess whether the city could execute an International Criminal Court arrest warrant against Netanyahu.</p><p>The Democratic socialist mayor previously stated that New Yorkers had the right to protest Netanyahu’s visit, describing protest as "one of the bedrocks of our city."</p><p>Mamdani emphasized the importance of free expression, stating, "It is something that has been a part of what makes our city so special, that New Yorkers can express themselves whether they are in support or in opposition no matter on whatever topic," during a press conference on July 22.</p><p>Mamdani has been critical of Israel’s actions in Gaza and has accused the country of committing genocide, while also supporting pro-Palestinian causes. He notably skipped New York City’s annual Israel Day Parade on May 31, marking the first time a mayor has missed the event in decades.</p><p>Mamdani has previously referred to Netanyahu as a "war criminal" and the "architect of a horrific genocide against the Palestinian people." Fox News Digital reached out to Mamdani's office for further comment.</p>