Mayoral Candidate Stands Firm on Netanyahu Arrest and Gaza Ceasefire

Zoran Mamdani, a leading candidate for mayor, reaffirmed his commitment on Wednesday to arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu should he visit New York City. He also hesitated to state that Hamas should end its armed struggle.

The democratic socialist, 33, engaged in a challenging interview with Fox News’ Martha McCallum, known for her critical stance on Israel. Mamdani was pressed about whether he would acknowledge former President Trump’s role in facilitating a ceasefire in Gaza, a claim he deemed “too early to address.”

When asked directly if he would give credit to Trump, Mamdani replied, “I think it’s too early to do that. But if it turns out to be something permanent, something durable, I think that’s where we should go.”

As the conversation turned to whether Hamas should disarm—a pivotal point in the ongoing negotiations—Mamdani sidestepped the question. Instead, he emphasized the importance of making life in New York City affordable for all.

He stated, “I have no particular opinion on the future of Hamas and Israel other than issues of justice and security.”

Regarding his pledge to instruct the New York Police Department to arrest Netanyahu, who is subject to an outstanding warrant from the International Criminal Court, Mamdani firmly maintained his position, saying, “I have exhausted all legal options before me.”

During a preview of the interview on “Fox & Friends,” McCallum mentioned she would address Mamdani on various topics including the Gaza agreement, public safety, and wealth taxation.

Additionally, she indicated she would urge him to apologize for previously labeling the NYPD as “racist” back in 2020, noting that he had claimed he no longer holds that belief.