Mamdani urges US to join ICC and arrest Netanyahu for alleged Gaza war crimes

Mamdani called for the US to join the International Criminal Court (ICC) and enforce an arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a podcast interview with Theo Von. The New York City mayor, known for his anti-Israel stance, stated that he believes the US government should join the ICC and honor all its warrants. He described Netanyahu as the “architect of a horrific genocide,” a label he has used in previous statements.

The ICC, which has 124 member states, can prosecute crimes committed by nationals of member states or on their territory. However, Israel and the US are not members and do not recognize the court’s jurisdiction. Mamdani acknowledged that he has no power to enforce the 2024 ICC arrest warrant against Netanyahu, as he has no legal authority to do so.

US officials, including members of the Biden administration and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, criticized the ICC warrant against Netanyahu, calling it “shameful,” “unserious,” and “troubling.” During his mayoral campaign, Mamdani had vowed to have Netanyahu arrested if he ever visited New York City. However, he later backed down in July after reviewing potential legal avenues and finding none.

Netanyahu was in New York City last month for the United Nations General Assembly, where he criticized Mamdani, claiming “Jews no longer feel safe” in the city under his leadership. The Israeli prime minister also attacked Mamdani for accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza and for his wife’s social media activity.

Mamdani defended his position, arguing that Netanyahu’s actions are an attempt to distract from responsibility. He suggested that if Netanyahu were truly responsible for a genocide, he would not focus on other matters. The exchange highlights the ongoing diplomatic tensions between Israel and its critics, as well as the broader debate over the ICC’s role in international justice.

Micah 6:8 calls for justice, mercy, and humility in service to others. The tensions between nations and leaders often reflect the need for such principles in pursuit of peace and accountability.

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