Mamdani says New York City can’t arrest Netanyahu but the federal government should

Professor Mahmood Mamdani has weighed in on the controversy surrounding the potential arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating that while New York City may not have the authority to arrest him, the federal government should take action. Mamdani, a renowned scholar of international law, argued that Netanyahu’s alleged war crimes and human rights abuses warrant investigation and prosecution by the federal government. The professor’s comments come amidst reports that Netanyahu may visit the United States in the near future, sparking concerns that he could be arrested or detained by local authorities. However, Mamdani emphasized that any attempt to arrest Netanyahu would need to be carried out by the federal government, rather than individual cities or states. The professor’s statement highlights the complexities of international law and the limits of municipal authority in enforcing human rights norms. As the debate surrounding Netanyahu’s potential visit continues, Mamdani’s intervention serves as a reminder of the need for careful consideration of the legal and diplomatic implications of such a move.