Daijiworld Media Network - Jerusalem

Jerusalem, Jul 27: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said he still plans to attend the United Nations General Assembly in New York later this year despite calls for his arrest, accusing New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani of "fomenting hate" over his pledge to enforce the International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant against him.

Netanyahu made the remarks amid growing tensions over the ICC's warrant accusing him of alleged war crimes related to Israel's military operations in Gaza.

The Israeli leader criticised Mamdani's comments, saying they encouraged hostility against Israel and its leadership. He maintained that he would travel to New York for the annual UN General Assembly session despite the controversy.

Mamdani, who has previously stated that New York authorities should comply with international legal obligations, has pledged to enforce the ICC arrest warrant if Netanyahu visits the city.

The ICC issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant over alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity linked to the Gaza conflict. Israel has rejected the allegations, does not recognise the court's jurisdiction, and has described the warrants as politically motivated.

Netanyahu has repeatedly defended Israel's military campaign, saying it is aimed at protecting the country's security and combating Hamas following the October 7, 2023, attacks.

The dispute has added to diplomatic tensions ahead of the UN General Assembly, where Netanyahu is expected to address world leaders on regional security and the ongoing conflict in Gaza.