New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has stated he is consulting with city legal authorities regarding the potential arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu should he visit the city for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in September.

Mamdani's consideration follows an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant for Netanyahu, who faces charges for alleged crimes against humanity in Gaza. The mayor views the potential arrest as a matter of justice for actions in Gaza.

In an interview with The New York Times, Mamdani expressed his belief that Netanyahu "belongs in the Hague" and called him "a war criminal who has been charged by the International Criminal Court." He noted that this sentiment is shared by many due to the prolonged conflict.

Mamdani, a democratic socialist and vocal supporter of the Palestinian cause, had previously pledged to arrest Netanyahu during his mayoral campaign. He is now actively discussing with the city's law department the extent of his authority for such an action, stating, "Whatever the law allows me to do in New York City, that’s what we will do."

Responding to the prospect of an arrest, Prime Minister Netanyahu reportedly told radio personality Sid Rosenberg that he believes Mamdani "secretly hates America." Israel's Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, has affirmed that Netanyahu will attend the UNGA meeting in September.

During his mayoral campaign, Mamdani faced significant Islamophobic attacks. Notably, Rosenberg referred to the then-candidate as a "cockroach," later issuing an apology. Mamdani's election and his stance on Netanyahu reflect a notable shift in sentiment among Democratic voters concerning Israel.

Recent polling indicates a substantial portion of Democratic voters now oppose U.S. aid to Israel, a significant increase from previous years. Almost half of those surveyed feel their party is overly supportive of Israel, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has drawn accusations of genocide from numerous human rights organizations, international officials, and scholars.

The legal feasibility and implications of a city mayor attempting to enforce an international arrest warrant on a visiting head of state remain complex and are central to the ongoing discussions within New York City's legal department.