Trump Says Netanyahu Won't Be Arrested in US – ICC Update 2026

Donald Trump has stated that Benjamin Netanyahu will not be arrested if he visits the United States, countering New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's plans to enforce an International Criminal Court warrant against the Israeli Prime Minister for alleged war crimes in Gaza.

Trump’s Statement on Netanyahu’s Arrest

In a Truth Social post on Monday, Trump declared that Netanyahu “will not be arrested, in any way, shape or form while in the United States of America.” He argued that Netanyahu is “fighting against the Islamic Republic of Iran” and suggested that “the only ones that should be arrested are the people that led Iran into this unprecedented spiral of death and destruction.” This position directly contradicts the ICC warrant issued in November 2024, which the US does not recognize.

New York Mayor Mamdani’s Position

Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who has called Netanyahu a “war criminal,” told the New York Times that he is exploring his legal authority to direct the NYPD to detain the Israeli leader if he visits New York during the UN General Assembly in September. “I believe that Prime Minister Netanyahu belongs in The Hague,” Mamdani said, referring to the seat of the ICC. He added that he is in “active conversation” with the city’s law department to determine if he can enforce the ICC arrest warrant under city law.

Key Legal and Political Differences

The clash highlights the broader tension between US policy and international legal frameworks. The US is not a party to the ICC, but Mamdani argued, “It is my desire to ensure that this be a city that stands up for international law.”

Background of the ICC Warrant

The ICC issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu, former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas leaders in November 2024. The charges include alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity related to the Gaza conflict. While the US does not recognize the court’s jurisdiction, Mamdani pledged during his mayoral campaign to arrest Netanyahu if he traveled to New York.

Key Takeaways

• Trump’s guarantee aims to shield Netanyahu from any ICC-related arrest in the US.
• Mayor Mamdani is actively exploring legal avenues to detain Netanyahu under city authority.
• The ICC warrant remains a point of contention between international law and national sovereignty.
• Netanyahu’s potential visit to New York in September could trigger a major legal and diplomatic showdown.

FAQ

This developing story underscores the complex intersection of international law, domestic politics, and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. As the September UN General Assembly approaches, the world will watch whether Netanyahu travels to New York and how the legal standoff unfolds.