A Brooklyn resident has extended an invitation to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to come to the city on January 1. This date coincides with the swearing-in of Mayor-elect Zoran Mamdani, who has indicated a desire to take action against Netanyahu during any future visit.
Inna Vernikov, a member of the city council and a strong supporter of Israel, announced that she formally invited the Prime Minister. Netanyahu plans to be in New York to “reaffirm the deep and enduring connections” between the United States, New York City, and Israel.
“In spite of the outrageous comments made by individuals like Mayor-elect Mamdani, your visit will demonstrate that this city stands with Israel and the Jewish community,” she expressed in a letter to Netanyahu.
Mamdani, known for his socialist stance, has stated that he would use New York’s police forces to arrest Netanyahu if he were to visit again, referring to a 2024 International Criminal Court warrant that alleges war crimes in Gaza—claims not acknowledged by the United States.
Vernikov chastised Mamdani for what she described as “irresponsible and frankly unreasonable statements” and labeled his accusations of anti-Semitism against her as unfounded.
She conveyed to Netanyahu: “Even if there are differing opinions on your policies, you are the elected Prime Minister of Israel. This democratic state represents hope, freedom, and Western values amidst a region rife with tyranny.”
In late 2024, the ICC issued warrants for Netanyahu and former defense minister Yov Gallant, alleging they “deliberately and knowingly deprived civilians in Gaza of survival essentials.”
Nonetheless, both the U.S. and Israel do not recognize the ICC, having opted not to ratify the Rome Statute that established the court.
Mamdani has reiterated his commitment to his controversial pledge to arrest Netanyahu during a recent interview. “This is my goal,” he told The New York Times. “Cities and states need to demonstrate their values and how to genuinely support their communities, especially in the current political climate.”
He reaffirmed this stance in October, stating it’s crucial for New York City to adhere to international criminal law.
However, Dov Hikind, a former Democratic state legislator, remarked that Mamdani would soon recognize the limits of his authority. “Netanyahu will receive an exceptionally warm welcome in New York, likely attracting supporters who have never shown up before,” he added.
Representatives for Mamdani did not provide comments when contacted for a response.
