Cuomo joins Netanyahu’s legal defense team against ICC warrants as he mulls 2025 NYC mayoral run
Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo recently made headlines by joining Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s legal defense team in response to arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC). The warrants were in relation to their handling of Hamas’ terrorist attack on October 7, 2023.
Cuomo, who resigned in 2021 amid harassment allegations, spoke out against antisemitism at a dinner with leaders of New York’s Jewish community. He condemned the whitewashing of Hamas kidnappings and murders in Israel and expressed pride in joining Netanyahu’s defense team. Cuomo emphasized the importance of standing against antisemitism and supporting Israel in this pivotal moment.
The ICC charged Netanyahu and his former defense chief Yoav Gallant with crimes against humanity and war crimes, leading to global controversy as signatories to the court’s jurisdiction found themselves at odds with non-party allies like the U.S. Western nations, including the European Union, faced a dilemma as they were obligated to uphold the ICC’s edicts.
In response to the warrants, bipartisan outrage erupted on Capitol Hill with lawmakers such as Sens. John Fetterman, Lindsey Graham, and Tom Cotton, along with Reps. Jared Moskowitz and Ritchie Torres, condemning the move. Graham and Cotton even sought to pass a law sanctioning any country aiding in Netanyahu’s arrest by the ICC.
Cuomo, who is rumored to be considering a mayoral run in New York City in 2025, highlighted the Jewish community’s presence in the city and emphasized the need to combat antisemitism. He referenced legislation he signed as governor to address hate crimes and pledged to ensure its proper enforcement.
As a member of Netanyahu’s legal defense team, Cuomo expressed his commitment to fighting antisemitism and supporting Israel. His spokesperson emphasized Cuomo’s track record of prioritizing these issues during his tenure as governor, including passing hate crime legislation and leading a state delegation to Israel during times of conflict.
The situation has drawn attention to the diverse stances taken by nations regarding the ICC, with some major countries like the U.S., Russia, and Turkey not recognizing its authority. In contrast, allies such as Canada, Mexico, Australia, and the United Kingdom acknowledge the court’s jurisdiction.
Through his involvement in Netanyahu’s defense, Cuomo has reaffirmed his dedication to combating antisemitism and supporting Israel. The ongoing legal battle underscores the complex intersection of international law, politics, and human rights in the face of global challenges.
