Netanyahu refuses US troop withdrawal demand, faces arrest threat from NYC mayor

In late July 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told his cabinet that the United States wants Israel to withdraw troops from Lebanon, Gaza, and Syria, but he plans to refuse. Around the same time, Netanyahu secretly flew to meet with President Trump, reportedly due to an Iranian security threat. Meanwhile, Syria's President Al-Sharaa announced he is seeking a security agreement with Israel.

Separately, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani called Netanyahu a 'war criminal' and threatened his arrest if he visits the city. Netanyahu accused Mamdani of 'fomenting hate' and said he would come to New York anyway. NBA star Kyle Kuzma also criticized Mamdani for the remark.