Will Mamdani arrest Israeli PM Netanyahu during his potential New York visit?

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s possible trip to New York has attracted international focus amid questions over whether he could face arrest during the visit.

The speculation intensified after the city’s incoming mayor, Zehran Mamdani, announced the possibility of Netanyahu’s detention in New York.

Despite the uncertainty, Netanyahu has confirmed plans to visit New York City in the near future. During this period, Brooklyn City Council member Ana Frenikov extended an invitation to Netanyahu to attend New York on 1 January, coinciding with Mamdani’s inauguration ceremony as the city’s new mayor.

Frenikov, known for her conservative stance, emphasised the importance of revitalising strong and long-standing ties between New York and Israel.

The invitation highlighted historical relations and mutual cooperation between the two.

In response, Netanyahu sent a formal message thanking her for the invitation but did not set a definitive date for the trip, stating only that he would visit New York soon.

Meanwhile, the announcement by Mayor-elect Mamdani has complicated the situation, as the suggestion of a potential arrest raises significant legal and political questions.

Experts note that U.S. laws, diplomatic immunity, and political considerations will play key roles in the outcome.