In a recent statement, former US President Donald Trump assured that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would not face arrest during any potential visits to the United States. This declaration comes in response to discussions surrounding an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC). Trump made it clear through social media that Netanyahu would not be detained “in any way, shape, or form” while on American soil.
The discourse around Netanyahu’s visit to the United States intensified following comments by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Mayor Mamdani has expressed intentions to explore possible legal measures concerning Netanyahu’s scheduled visit to New York for the United Nations General Assembly in September. Mamdani contends that Netanyahu should be held accountable for alleged war crimes in Gaza, an issue he believes warrants legal scrutiny.
However, legal experts have raised doubts about the feasibility of such an arrest, pointing out the limitations of New York City authorities to detain a foreign head of government. The United States is not a signatory to the ICC, and existing federal laws prevent local governments from engaging with the court. The ICC’s arrest warrants, issued in 2024 for Netanyahu and former Israeli defense minister Yoav Gallant, accuse them of war crimes and crimes against humanity, charges that both Israel and the United States have firmly denied.
During his comments, Trump also took the opportunity to criticize Iran and defend Netanyahu’s contributions to regional security. His administration has consistently opposed the ICC, implementing sanctions against the court earlier this year, arguing that its actions infringe upon US sovereignty. In line with Trump’s stance, Netanyahu’s office dismissed Mayor Mamdani’s remarks, suggesting that the mayor should prioritize addressing issues affecting New York City rather than pursuing legal actions against the Israeli leader.