Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic nominee for mayor of New York City, told The New York Times Friday that he intends to direct the police to detain Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu should he come to the city.
Mamdani said his stance is tied to the International Criminal Court’s warrant against Netanyahu, whom he accuses of committing war crimes in Gaza. He argued that New York has a responsibility to “stand up for international law” even if the federal government refuses to act. Mamdani added that he would apply the same approach to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who also faces an ICC warrant.
Legal scholars, however, described his pledge as unrealistic and likely unlawful. The United States is not a member of the ICC, and federal law prohibits local authorities from enforcing its rulings. Netanyahu, as a head of government, would also be shielded by diplomatic immunity.
The comments highlight Mamdani’s sharp break with traditional pro-Israel positions in New York politics. While his rhetoric resonates with some voters, particularly critics of Israel’s war in Gaza, it risks alienating parts of the city’s large Jewish community.
Netanyahu has dismissed the threat, calling it “silly.” Former President Donald Trump, who has stood by Netanyahu, warned that Mamdani would face “big problems” if he attempted such a move.
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