Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, voiced criticism towards New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, accusing him of stirring unrest ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to the U.N. General Assembly. Danon expressed these views to Fox News Digital following Mamdani’s July call for New Yorkers to protest when Netanyahu addresses the general debate at U.N. headquarters on September 24.
Danon commented, “No one can ignore Mayor Mamdani. Instead of welcoming world leaders and ensuring the city functions smoothly, he is doing the opposite.” The ambassador accused Mamdani of inciting chaos and making New York’s environment more challenging for residents and visitors during Netanyahu’s visit.
Despite Mamdani’s repeated calls for protest and efforts to block the prime minister’s visit, Netanyahu plans to attend and represent Israel. Mamdani has publicly labelled Netanyahu a “war criminal” and accused him of orchestrating a genocide against Palestinians. Though Mamdani had promised to arrest Netanyahu during his mayoral campaign, he admitted the impossibility of this action.
During a press briefing in July, Mamdani emphasized the importance of protest as a fundamental right in New York City. He stated, “It is something that has been part of what makes our city special, that New Yorkers can express themselves on any topic regardless of support or opposition.” Mamdani emphasized the value of First Amendment rights in New York City.
Netanyahu responded, telling Fox News on “Hannity,” “I’m going to New York,” committed to speaking “the truth in front of this hate-spewing elected official who’s pitting one group of New Yorkers against the others.”
Danon highlighted the ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza, expressing hope for disarmament according to the president’s plan. “Hamas is still there,” he remarked, reinforcing that Israel might take direct action if necessary. He argued that leaving Hamas in power jeopardizes both Gaza’s future and Israel’s security.
Discussing Israel’s achievements, Danon affirmed that despite criticism, Israel proudly stands against entities like Iran, Hezbollah, and Hamas at the U.N. “We fought for Western societies, for Western democracies,” he remarked, reflecting on Israel’s efforts this year.