NYC Councilwoman Vernikov Invites PM Netanyahu Amid Controversy Over Mamdani's Arrest Threat

Councilwoman Inna Vernikov, representing 48th District in Brooklyn, has extended an official invitation to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to visit New York City on January 1, 2026, emphasizing the strong and enduring bond between the city and the State of Israel.

Vernikov’s invitation comes amid recent controversial remarks by Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, who, during his campaign, stated he would seek to arrest Netanyahu should he visit the city. Mamdani assumes office on January 1.

In her letter to the Prime Minister, Vernikov described the statements as “irresponsible and frankly absurd,” and underscored that Netanyahu is the duly elected leader of Israel, a nation she called a “beacon of hope, freedom, western values, resilience, and strength” in a region “surrounded by tyranny and terror.”

Vernikov reiterated her support for Israel, “NYC will always stand with Israel, and no radical Marxists with a title can change that.” She expressed her anticipation of personally welcoming Netanyahu to the city, highlighting the significance of the visit for New York’s Jewish community, the largest outside Israel.