New York City is preparing for a major security operation when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu comes to town next month, and NYPD sources are pointing the finger at Mayor Zohran Mamdani. The expected visit, tied to the United Nations General Assembly, could force police to put presidential-level protection around the Israeli leader as officers worry about protests, threats and the strain on frontline cops.
Law enforcement sources told The Post that Mamdani’s public criticism of Netanyahu has helped create a more dangerous climate ahead of the trip. One source compared the situation to a storm that has been intensified by the mayor’s words, saying it could turn what would normally be a serious security assignment into something far worse. Another source said the mayor’s rhetoric has encouraged radical agitators and made the job of protecting dignitaries and the public more difficult.
Mamdani, who has taken a staunchly pro-Palestinian and anti-Israel stance, called for Netanyahu’s arrest during his 2025 mayoral campaign. He repeated that position last month before acknowledging that the NYPD does not have the power to arrest the Israeli prime minister. He then urged supporters to take to the streets during Netanyahu’s visit, describing protest as one of the city’s core traditions. Police sources said that message has angered officers who will be tasked with securing hotels, restaurants and other locations the prime minister may visit.
Netanyahu is expected to arrive in New York next month for the U.N. gathering and is scheduled to address the General Assembly on Sept. 26. Police sources said his final itinerary has not been set, but the size of the detail could reach 60 or more officers, including direct and peripheral protection. In many cases, dignitaries receive a much smaller guard, typically one sergeant and eight detectives, with federal, state and foreign agents also involved. One source said officers worry that a protester could turn violent and try to injure Netanyahu.
