"Security nightmare" and criticism of Mamdani: New York prepares for Netanyahu's visit
Ahead of the UN General Assembly, the New York Police Department has expressed concern over Mayor Zoran Mamdani's rhetoric. The mayor's previous calls for the arrest of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have, according to law enforcement, created additional security challenges.
New York is preparing for a large-scale security operation ahead of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's expected visit next month to the UN General Assembly. Sources within the New York Police Department have warned that Mayor Zoran Mamdani's calls for protests during the visit could significantly exacerbate security challenges, as reported on Saturday by the "New York Post".
Netanyahu is expected to arrive in New York in September and address the UN General Assembly on the 26th. While his full schedule has not yet been finalized, police sources estimate that more than 60 officers and detectives could be involved in securing the perimeter around him, in addition to federal, state, and Israeli security personnel.
Concerns within the police force have intensified following statements by Mamdani, who previously advocated for Netanyahu's arrest. Although the mayor later acknowledged that the NYPD lacks the authority to carry out such an arrest, he has called on the public to "take to the streets" during the Prime Minister's visit, emphasizing the importance of the right to protest.
A law enforcement source harshly criticized the mayor's conduct, stating that it turns an already complex security situation into something far more dangerous:
"Basically, he is turning what would be considered a Category 1 hurricane, which we deal with every year, into a Category 5 storm because of the things he says."
Police sources fear that this atmosphere could encourage radical protesters to act violently, not only against Netanyahu but also against officers stationed in the field. "What will stop one of the protesters from becoming an outlaw and trying to hurt him, or heaven forbid, kill him?" one source asked.
Scott Monroe, president of the New York City Police Detectives' Endowment Association, joined the criticism, stating that "Mayor Mamdani's irresponsible rhetoric surrounding Netanyahu and his calls for protests only fuel the fire" and complicate the task of securing world leaders arriving for the General Assembly.
The NYPD stated that the scope of security assigned to Netanyahu will be determined based on threat assessments. The department will continue to work in cooperation with the Secret Service, the State Department, and other federal agencies to protect visiting foreign leaders.
