Netanyahu vows to speak at UN in New York, defying ICC warrant and mayor's criticism

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared his intention to address the United Nations in New York City, despite facing an International Criminal Court arrest warrant. Netanyahu directly challenged comments from New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who had suggested Netanyahu was not welcome in the city.

During an interview on Fox News, Netanyahu accused Mamdani of "fomenting hate" and attempting to divide New Yorkers. He claimed Mamdani's stance was causing fear among Jewish Americans. However, recent polling data suggests a different public sentiment. A survey by the Associated Press-NORC Centre for Public Affairs Research found that 44 percent of Jewish adults viewed Mamdani favorably, while only about one-third held a favorable opinion of Netanyahu.

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I intend to come and speak the truth – speak for Israel and for the Israeli-American alliance from the podium of the United Nations.

The article highlights a significant shift in US public opinion regarding Israel, with a growing number of voters expressing less support. Despite attacks on Mamdani for his support of Palestinian rights, the poll indicates that US Jewish adults hold a more favorable view of the mayor than of Netanyahu. Furthermore, 30 percent of Jewish adults believe Israel has committed genocide in Gaza.

The ICC issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant in November 2024, citing alleged crimes against humanity and war crimes in Gaza. Despite these warrants and evolving public opinion, Netanyahu remains defiant, asserting his right to "speak the truth" from the UN podium.

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He’s fomenting hate. He’s supposed to be the mayor of all New Yorkers – Jews, Christians, Muslims, everyone. But he’s trying to turn one group against the other. I speak to Jewish Americans, and they’re afraid right now.