Netanyahu Slams NYC Mayor Mamdani Over 'Bogus' Gaza War Crimes Charges, Cites Rising Antisemitism

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sharply criticized New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, accusing him of "fomenting hate" and promoting "bogus" war crimes charges stemming from the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Netanyahu confirmed his intention to visit New York in September to address the annual United Nations General Assembly, a gathering of global leaders, despite Mayor Mamdani's suggestion that he would not be welcome. Mamdani had previously stated that while New York City itself does not possess the legal authority to enforce an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC), he encouraged the United States federal government to pursue such action.

Speaking on Maria Bartiromo's "Sunday Morning Futures" on the Fox News Channel, Netanyahu emphasized the role of a mayor as a leader for all constituents, regardless of their religious or ethnic background, including Jewish, Christian, and Muslim New Yorkers. He accused Mamdani of attempting to "turn one group against the other," thereby inciting division within the city.

The Israeli Prime Minister has become a highly polarizing figure, largely due to Israel's military operations in Gaza. These operations were initiated in response to the deadly attacks carried out by Hamas militants on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. Netanyahu also referenced broader regional conflicts, noting Israel's involvement in a war against Iran, which commenced on February 28, and a subsequent ground invasion in southern Lebanon. This latter action was a direct response to military provocations from the Iranian-backed Hezbollah group.

Netanyahu vehemently dismissed the International Criminal Court's war crimes charges against him as "bogus." He further pointed to recent allegations of sexual misconduct against the ICC's chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, who was removed from his post on Friday. Netanyahu suggested that the issuance of the arrest warrant was a deliberate attempt to divert attention from these internal ICC issues.

Beyond the immediate controversy, Netanyahu expressed significant concern regarding the erosion of traditionally bipartisan political support for Israel within the United States. He specifically highlighted a growing rift among progressive and far-left Democrats, whom he believes align with Mayor Mamdani's political perspective. Furthermore, the Prime Minister warned of a concerning rise in antisemitism not only in the U.S. but also in other Western countries. He shared his observations from interactions with people in New York City, home to the world's second-largest Jewish population, stating that "Jews feel very uncomfortable." Netanyahu described this sentiment and the broader trend as "wrong."

During his mayoral election campaign last year, Mamdani had indicated his intention to seek an order concerning...