**Netanyahu Will Not Face Arrest in U.S., Trump Affirms Amid Controversy**
U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Monday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will not be arrested during his upcoming visit to the United States. This declaration follows comments made by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who indicated that he was contemplating legal options regarding Netanyahu's potential arrest in connection with an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC).
In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump asserted, “Benjamin Netanyahu will not be arrested, in any way, shape, or form, while in the United States of America.” His remarks did not directly address Mayor Mamdani’s comments but emphasized the U.S. support for Israel, mentioning the country's role in conflicts such as the Iran war.
The backdrop to this controversy is an arrest warrant issued by the ICC in 2024, which accuses Netanyahu of war crimes linked to actions during the Gaza war. The Israeli government has vehemently rejected the court's jurisdiction, labeling the warrant as unfounded and the ICC itself as a "kangaroo court." Israel maintains that it operates within the bounds of international law and denies any allegations of committing war crimes.
Mayor Mamdani, who took office in January, has previously expressed strong views against Netanyahu. In an interview aired on Saturday, he stated that the city’s legal department is exploring what actions could be taken if Netanyahu visits New York. He described Netanyahu as a "war criminal" and expressed his belief that he should be held accountable at The Hague.
“I believe that Prime Minister Netanyahu belongs in The Hague. He’s a war criminal who has been charged by the International Criminal Court,” Mamdani said during a New York Times video podcast titled “The Interview.” His comments reflect a broader sentiment among some political figures who advocate for accountability regarding actions taken during military conflicts.
Netanyahu traditionally attends the United Nations General Assembly in New York every September, an event that draws global leaders and significant media attention. The prospect of his arrest has sparked debate not only within the city but also in the broader context of U.S.-Israel relations.
In response to Mamdani's statements, the Israeli government issued a statement on social media, criticizing the mayor for attempting to divert public attention from local issues by targeting the leader of Israel, which they describe as the only democracy in the Middle East. The statement reiterated Israel's position that the ICC's actions are politically motivated and lack legal merit.
The ICC, established in 2002, is tasked with prosecuting serious international crimes, including genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes. However, both the United States and Israel are not signatories to the Rome Statute, which established the court, limiting its jurisdiction over their nationals.
Mamdani's comments have drawn attention due to his earlier election campaign promises, where he indicated a willingness to direct law enforcement to arrest Netanyahu should he enter New York City. Notably, shortly after his election victory last November, Mamdani and Trump held a friendly meeting at the White House, despite their prior exchanges of criticism.
As the situation evolves, the implications of Mamdani's statements and Trump's assurances will likely continue to be a topic of discussion among political analysts and commentators, particularly in relation to U.S.-Israel relations and the role of international law in addressing alleged war crimes.