The Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, expressed concerns about New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s actions leading up to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to the U.N. General Assembly. Danon accused Mamdani of unsettling the city before Netanyahu’s speech on September 24.
Danon’s remarks followed Mamdani’s July call for New Yorkers to protest Netanyahu’s arrival and U.N. address. According to Danon, Mamdani is not facilitating a welcoming atmosphere for world leaders but instead inciting unrest. Danon stated, “He is creating disorder in the city. This increases challenges for New Yorkers and visitors alike. Despite these protests, the prime minister will attend and represent Israel.”
Attempts to obtain a comment from Mamdani’s office regarding any plans to meet with Netanyahu were unanswered. Previously, Mamdani labeled Netanyahu as a “war criminal” and alleged him to be responsible for a “genocide against the Palestinian people.” Though Mamdani pledged during his campaign to arrest Netanyahu, he acknowledged he lacks authority to do so.
In July, Mamdani emphasized the importance of protest in New York City’s identity. He highlighted the city’s role as a platform for expressing diverse opinions, stating, “New York City is where support or opposition on any topic can be voiced.” He noted this aligns with respecting the Constitution and First Amendment.
“Netanyahu told Fox News, ‘I’m visiting New York to speak the truth before a divisive official inciting discord among New Yorkers.'”
Danon referenced Israel’s complex and prolonged conflict, viewing it now as a landscape of emerging opportunities. He asserted that while significant progress has been made, concerning Gaza, challenges remain. “Hamas remains. Disarming them is in the president’s plan. Should this not happen soon, Israel may address it alone. Leaving a terrorist entity in Gaza offers no future for Gaza’s people or Israel,” he added.
During a news event in Manhattan, Mamdani upheld New York’s tradition of civil expression. Despite criticism toward Israel, Danon affirmed Israel’s global fight against threats, defending Western democracies by combating forces like Iran and Hezbollah. This solid reputation, Danon noted, enables them to stand confidently on the world stage.
Leave a Reply