Israeli President Herzog condemns NYC mayor's remarks, warns of Iran and lauds Trump

President Isaac Herzog told one outlet from his Jerusalem residence that New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s social-media video labeling Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a war criminal spreads hateful, antisemitic rhetoric and puts New Yorkers at risk. He asserted that such statements ignore Israel’s legitimate right to exist as a nation. Herzog warned that Iran’s regime has for decades posed a strategic threat worldwide, pointing to its missile capabilities, nuclear ambitions and backing of regional terror proxies.

He recalled the February 28 joint U.S.-Israel military campaign, known as Operation Epic Fury, and praised President Donald Trump for his historic decisions supporting Israel, including the embassy relocation to Jerusalem. Commenting on the recently passed U.S. defense authorization bill, Herzog called the partisan vote a “red light” but maintained that it will not diminish the long-standing U.S.-Israel partnership. He concluded by honoring the late Senator Lindsey Graham, describing him as a steadfast advocate for Israel’s security and values.