In a recent statement, former U.S. President Donald Trump assured that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would not face arrest during any potential visit to the United States. This comment comes in response to the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) arrest warrant for Netanyahu. The ICC issued this warrant in 2024, accusing Netanyahu and former Israeli defense minister Yoav Gallant of war crimes and crimes against humanity. However, both Israel and the United States have strongly denied these allegations.
Trump’s declaration was seemingly a reaction to New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s earlier statements. Mamdani had expressed intentions to explore all legal avenues regarding Netanyahu’s upcoming visit to New York for the United Nations General Assembly in September. The mayor has been vocal about his belief that Netanyahu should be held accountable for alleged war crimes in Gaza.
In a social media post, Trump emphasized that Netanyahu “will not be arrested in any way, shape, or form” during his stay in the United States. Additionally, Trump criticized Iran and voiced support for Netanyahu’s contributions to regional security. Legal experts have questioned the feasibility of New York City authorities arresting a foreign head of state, especially given that the United States is not a participant in the ICC. Moreover, federal law restricts local governments from cooperating with the court.
The stance of the Trump administration towards the ICC has been notably firm, having imposed sanctions on the court earlier in the year. The administration has argued that the ICC’s actions pose a threat to U.S. sovereignty. Meanwhile, Netanyahu’s office has responded to Mamdani’s remarks by urging the mayor to concentrate on addressing issues within New York City rather than pursuing legal action against the Israeli prime minister.