Mamdani’s threat to arrest Netanyahu spotlights deepening Democratic divisions 

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s threat to arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu signals a new line in the sand for the Democratic Party and its relationship to the Jewish State.

Mamdani’s comments to the New York Times that he is having “an active conversation” over whether an arrest warrant for Netanyahu can be executed reflect a shift inside his party, in which a growing number of Democratic lawmakers are entirely opposed to U.S. military support for Israel, due largely to its brutal campaign inside Gaza. 

“I believe that Prime Minister Netanyahu belongs in the Hague. He’s a war criminal who has been charged by the International Criminal Court,” Mamdani told The Interview, a Times podcast, in an episode published Saturday.  

“What you will find is, that is an opinion that is held by many,” he added.

Some Democrats say Mamdani is right: “He’s representing a majority perspective that is growing and he is a highly credible and trusted messenger,” said Democratic strategist Joel Payne, adding that the mayor has been consistent with his message about the abuses and violations of international law by Netanyahu and his government since before he ran for mayor.

But some Democrats – even those who don’t support Netanyahu’s actions –  maintain that while those views are popular within parts of the base, it won’t get them very far with the broader electorate. They argue Democrats are in danger of alienating swing voters on the issue, underscoring one of the biggest tension points within the party. 

“I don’t think any of this is helpful to our party,” said Democratic strategist Steve Schale. “I think this entire dialogue is unhelpful to our party. To win a general election in November, we’re going to need voters who span the spectrum on that issue.”  

“I’m not going to be out here defending how Netanyahu has governed his country. But what’s the line here? What’s next? Is it the next president you don’t like?” Schale........

© The Hill