Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized New York City Mayor Jumaane Williams for labeling him a war criminal, accusing him of "inciting hatred."
In an interview with Fox News on July 26, Netanyahu stated, "The mayor should represent all citizens, including Jews, Christians, and Muslims. However, Williams is trying to pit one group against another."
Despite the criticism from Mayor Williams, Netanyahu confirmed he will visit New York for the UN General Assembly in September.
During his campaign, Williams had announced that if Netanyahu visited New York, he would execute an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC). However, a recent legal review revealed that New York City does not have the authority to independently execute the warrant.
Nevertheless, Williams continues to assert that Netanyahu is a war criminal and has called on the U.S. federal government to enforce the ICC arrest warrant.
U.S. President Donald Trump dismissed concerns, stating, "There is no way Netanyahu will be arrested in America."
The ICC issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu in November 2024, accusing him of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity during the Gaza conflict. Netanyahu and the Israeli government have categorically denied the allegations.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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