Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to address the upcoming UN General Assembly in New York City later this month, with Israel's Ambassador to the UN Danny Danon asserting that protests called for by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani will not alter the prime minister's plans. "Israel's Prime Minister will come to New York and address the General Assembly, as he does every year. No protest and no provocation will change that," Danon told The Post.
Mamdani, speaking in July, acknowledged the role of protest in New York City, stating, "one of the bedrocks of our city is protesting. It is something that’s been a part of what makes our city so special that New Yorkers can express themselves whether they are in support or in opposition no matter what." He added, "And I’ve always said that when we respect our Constitution, we also respect our First Amendment." Mamdani did not directly answer whether he would participate in protests himself. The New York Police Department has expressed frustration with the mayor's calls for civil disobedience.
Netanyahu is expected to arrive in the U.S. on September 23 and address the General Assembly on September 24. His visit occurs amidst ongoing anger over Israeli actions in the Middle East, including its operations in Syria and its treatment of Palestinians in Gaza. Tensions have also been exacerbated by the conflict with Iran.
Concerns exist that some delegations may walk out or voice loud disapproval during Netanyahu's address. Historically, representatives from numerous countries have walked out during his speeches at the UN. In a previous instance, Netanyahu delivered a defiant defense of Israel's actions in Gaza. Supporters of Israel are anticipated to organize counter-protests in support of the prime minister. President Trump is not expected to meet with Netanyahu during this visit, as he is scheduled to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the White House around the same time.
Previously, the mayor had stated an intention to arrest Netanyahu over an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant, but later conceded that New York City lacks the legal authority to do so for a foreign dignitary. The ICC warrant was issued in relation to the treatment of civilians in Gaza who experienced starvation and displacement during Israeli attacks.