Netanyahu’s ‘Wing of Zion’ May Avoid JFK Amid Mamdani ConcernsNetanyahu’s ‘Wing of Zion’ May Avoid JFK Amid Mamdani ConcernsIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to make changes to his travel arrangements for his upcoming visit to New York for the United Nations General Assembly, with his official aircraft, Wing of Zion, reportedly set to avoid John F. Kennedy International Airport.
According to Israeli media, the aircraft could instead land at Newark Liberty International Airport or a military airfield in New Jersey. The reported change is linked to logistical concerns, security considerations and tensions surrounding New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s position on Netanyahu’s visit.
Why Is Netanyahu Avoiding JFK?
Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth reported that officials were concerned about arrangements for keeping the aircraft at JFK while Netanyahu attends UN events in New York.
According to the report, Israeli officials were concerned that the city could create difficulties over the aircraft’s parking arrangements, prompting consideration of an alternative airport or military facility in New Jersey. These details have been attributed to unnamed sources and have not been independently confirmed by US authorities.
The reported change also comes amid Netanyahu’s political dispute with Mamdani.
Mamdani previously said his administration had examined whether New York City had legal authority to enforce the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrant against Netanyahu. In July, however, he acknowledged that the city did not have independent legal authority to carry out the warrant and urged US federal authorities to act instead.
Netanyahu Expected to Keep New York Stay Brief
Israeli media reports also say Netanyahu plans to keep his New York visit short and is not expected to stay overnight.
The reported decision comes amid expectations of protests during his visit to the UN General Assembly. Reuters reported that Netanyahu plans to use his UN address to defend Israel’s military actions and respond to criticism, including criticism from Mamdani.
Meeting With Elon Musk Cancelled
Netanyahu has also reportedly cancelled a planned stop in Texas to meet billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk.
An Israeli source cited by Yedioth Ahronoth said difficulties involving the aircraft’s refuelling arrangements and last-minute coordination with US authorities contributed to the cancellation. The meeting was reportedly part of the original itinerary but was ultimately dropped.
Netanyahu is scheduled to travel to New York for the UN General Assembly, where his visit is taking place amid heightened political tensions surrounding Israel’s war in Gaza, the ICC warrant and the public dispute with New York’s mayor.
