Former Governor Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat, is currently part of a legal team putting together a defense for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is facing international charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity along with former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. The team, led by Harvard law professor Alan Dershowitz, is also defending Hamas military leader Mohammed Deif. The case will be tried in The Hague, but the team is focusing on the court of public opinion since the United States and Israel do not recognize the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court.
Cuomo confirmed his involvement in the case at a fundraising event for a Jewish education committee, emphasizing the importance of standing up for Israel in difficult times. The former governor, who resigned in 2021 amid sexual harassment allegations and criticism of his COVID-19 response, has a strong pro-Israel record and has been considering a run for New York City mayor in the upcoming election.
Speculation about Cuomo’s potential mayoral bid has been circulating, with reports suggesting he may launch his campaign soon. His spokesperson dismissed the rumors as premature and highlighted Cuomo’s accomplishments during his time in office, including raising wages, expanding gun protections, and completing infrastructure projects.
Some of Cuomo’s potential opponents in the mayoral race have criticized his involvement in defending Netanyahu, with Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani denouncing the partnership with Dershowitz. Mamdani has been vocal about condemning Israel’s actions in Gaza and has expressed intentions to have Netanyahu arrested if he were to visit New York City. New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, another mayoral candidate, accused Cuomo of seeking public office for personal revenge, with no interest in benefiting the city.
Source
Photo credit gothamist.com
