Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations Danny Danon has publicly accused New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani of sowing chaos ahead of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s upcoming visit to the U.N. General Assembly, FOX News reports. The Prime Minister is scheduled to speak at the general debate at U.N. headquarters, a visit that has already sparked significant political friction.
The friction stems from comments made by Mamdani in July, when he encouraged New Yorkers to protest the arrival of the Israeli leader. Danon expressed his frustration with this stance, arguing that the role of a city leader should be to facilitate a smooth environment for visiting world leaders. “No one can ignore Mayor Mamdani, you know, instead of actually welcoming all world leaders and making sure that the city will function properly, he is doing exactly the opposite,” Danon said.
The Ambassador suggested that these calls for protest will complicate the experience for those living in or visiting the city. “He is inciting, he is sowing chaos into the city. So this year, unfortunately, it will be harder for every New Yorker or every visitor because the mayor is actually calling for people to go out, to demonstrate and it will not deter us. The prime minister will come, will speak and will represent our nation,” Danon added.
Danon says Netanyahu won’t meet Mamdani
When asked about the possibility of a meeting between the two officials, Danon dismissed the idea, stating, “I don’t think the prime minister wants to meet with him.” Mamdani has previously taken a strong stance against the Prime Minister, labeling him a war criminal and the architect of a horrific genocide against the Palestinian people.
Although the mayor promised during his campaign to have Netanyahu arrested, he has acknowledged that this is not a legal possibility. During a press conference, Mamdani defended the right to demonstrate, framing it as a fundamental aspect of the city.
“One of the bedrocks of our city is protest,” he said. “It is something that has 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 on whatever topic. And I’ve always said that when we respect our Constitution, we also respect our First Amendment. And here in New York City it will always be a place where you can exercise that.”
Prime Minister Netanyahu also addressed the situation, noting his intention to travel to New York regardless of the opposition. He stated, “I’m going to New York,” and added, “I’m going to speak the truth in front of this hate-spewing elected official who’s pitting one group of New Yorkers against the others.”
Looking toward the U.N. gathering, Danon emphasized that the Israeli delegation plans to focus on their recent military efforts and broader regional goals. He noted that the country has been engaged in a difficult and long war, but he believes there are opportunities ahead.
Danon stated that the Prime Minister will discuss both achievements and future prospects. Regarding the ongoing situation in Gaza, Danon maintained that Israel needs to finish the job. He stressed that Hamas must disarm according to the President’s plan, noting, “But we cannot leave a terrorist organization in Gaza. There will be no future for the people of Gaza or for us if Hamas will stay in power.”
Published: Sep 8, 2026 01:45 pm