Mamdani Responds to Netanyahu's Accusations Ahead of UN Visit

<p>New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani responded to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday after Netanyahu accused him of supporting Hamas and inciting unrest against Jewish New Yorkers. This exchange occurs just days before Netanyahu's visit to the city.</p><p>When questioned by reporters about Netanyahu's video, Mamdani rejected the accusations. "We all know that what the prime minister has said in that video is not true," Mamdani stated. He added that Netanyahu is the subject of an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity.</p><p>The ICC issued the arrest warrant in November 2024, but Netanyahu and the Israeli government have dismissed the allegations and challenged the court's authority.</p><p>Mamdani further accused Netanyahu of being responsible for violence against Palestinians, stating, "And as the prime minister, he is the architect of horrific genocide against Palestinians. And just a few days ago, his military killed an 11-year-old boy in what is deemed to be a safe zone in Gaza. So that is what I have to say to his video."</p><p>Netanyahu, in a video posted to X, expressed his intent to "tell the truth" about Mamdani when he speaks at the U.N. He stated, "Shame on you, Mr. Mamdani. Shame on you for supporting the Hamas terrorist monsters who butchered our people. Shame on you for inciting riots against New York Jews."</p><p>This exchange is part of an ongoing public feud between the two leaders as Netanyahu prepares for his visit to New York City. Earlier this year, Mamdani had explored the possibility of executing the ICC warrant against Netanyahu but later acknowledged that the city could not enforce the warrant independently.</p><p>Mamdani has previously labeled Netanyahu a "war criminal" and reiterated that he is "not welcome" in New York City. He emphasized the importance of protest in the city, stating, "One of the bedrocks of our city is protest. 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."</p><p>Recently, Mamdani clarified that he does not plan to participate in protests during Netanyahu's visit and has not encouraged New Yorkers to demonstrate, stating, "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 the city."</p><p>Following a meeting with President Donald Trump on Monday, Mamdani was asked if Netanyahu was discussed. He indicated that their conversation focused on issues affecting New York City, including affordability and economic development, while reiterating his stance on Netanyahu.</p>