Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to make a swift visit to New York to deliver a speech at the United Nations General Assembly, despite facing both political and legal challenges. According to Israel’s UN ambassador Danny Danon, Netanyahu’s brief trip will see him arrive on September 23, address the Assembly the following day, and return to Israel that same night.
This visit occurs against the backdrop of ongoing tensions with New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who has previously labeled Netanyahu a war criminal and expressed intentions to seek his arrest during the Israeli leader’s presence in the city. However, Mamdani later conceded that local authorities lack the jurisdiction to enforce an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC).
The ICC had issued the arrest warrant for Netanyahu and former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant in November 2024, citing alleged crimes against humanity related to Israel’s military actions in Gaza. The Israeli government has consistently dismissed these allegations.
Netanyahu’s anticipated appearance at the UN is likely to provoke protests, as was the case last year when many delegates exited the General Assembly hall during his speech. Despite expecting similar demonstrations, Israeli officials assert that Netanyahu will proceed with his address as planned.
The annual UN General Assembly session, scheduled from September 22 to 28, coincides with significant events such as Jewish holidays and Israel’s election period, adding further layers of complexity to Netanyahu’s visit.