In response to controversial discussions surrounding an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC), former U.S. President Donald Trump has made it clear that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will not face arrest during any future trips to the United States. Trump’s statement comes amid buzz about Netanyahu’s anticipated visit to New York for the United Nations General Assembly in September, where some local officials have expressed interest in pursuing legal action against him.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has been vocal about exploring all legal avenues concerning Netanyahu’s visit, citing the Israeli leader’s alleged involvement in war crimes in Gaza as the basis for his stance. Despite these assertions, legal experts have cast doubt on the feasibility of such actions, pointing out that U.S. federal law restricts local governments from engaging with the ICC, and the country itself is not a member of the court.
Trump took to social media to emphasize that Netanyahu “will not be arrested in any way, shape, or form” while in the United States. He also used the opportunity to voice criticism of Iran and to defend Netanyahu’s contributions to regional security. His administration has historically opposed the ICC, having imposed sanctions on the court earlier this year, arguing that its actions are a threat to U.S. sovereignty.
The ICC issued warrants in 2024 for Netanyahu and former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity. Both Israel and the United States have firmly denied these allegations, with Netanyahu’s office urging Mayor Mamdani to prioritize local issues in New York City over international legal pursuits.
