NYC Mayoral Candidate Zohran Mamdani Vows to Arrest Benjamin Netanyahu if He Visits the City

Zohran Mamdani, the newly declared winner of New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary, has become a focal point of political discourse due to his controversial remarks regarding Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Earlier in his political career, Mamdani had publicly stated that he would arrest Netanyahu if the Israeli leader ever visited New York City, a stance that has continued to shape his public image. This declaration was made during an interview with Mehdi Hasan, a former MSNBC host and now editor-in-chief of Zeteo, where Mamdani emphasized the city’s alignment with international law and its commitment to holding leaders accountable for alleged crimes.

The backdrop of this promise is the broader political climate, particularly the International Criminal Court (ICC) and its role in addressing global issues like war crimes and genocide. Despite Israel’s non-participation in the ICC, Mamdani has consistently advocated for the enforcement of international law, claiming that New York City should mirror the actions of countries that are signatories to the court. This stance was reinforced by Mamdani’s participation in anti-Israel protests following the Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023, which further cemented his association with the anti-Israel activist community.

Mamdani’s family heritage, including his anthropologist father, Mahmood Mamdani, who is associated with Columbia University’s anti-Israel protests, and his filmmaker mother, Mira Nair, who publicly supported the boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel, has often been scrutinized for its potential influence on his political views. Additionally, these familial connections highlight the broader narrative regarding the intersection of personal background and political activism within New York City’s political landscape. As Mamdani seeks to shape the city’s future, his actions and statements continue to draw attention and debate among the public and media.

In his victory speech following the primary, Mamdani articulated his vision for a New York City that resists the policies of former President Donald Trump, emphasizes social justice, and serves as a model for the Democratic Party. Despite the controversy surrounding his statements, Mamdani remains a prominent figure in the Democratic Party’s mayoral race, reflecting the complex and polarizing nature of modern political discourse in New York City.