Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has canceled a planned visit to New York City following requests by legal advocacy groups for a state-level investigation into his conduct. Ben-Gvir was originally scheduled to attend an international police summit at the United Nations this month.
The Center for Constitutional Rights and the Hind Rajab Foundation submitted a formal request to New York Attorney General Letitia James to investigate Ben-Gvir. The groups allege that his policies have resulted in the mistreatment of New York residents, specifically those participating in aid flotillas to Gaza and individuals held in Israeli prisons. Testimonies cited in the request include allegations of physical abuse and the reduction of food and visitation rights for detainees.
Spokespersons for the legal groups stated that the cancellation represents a shift in accountability for Israeli officials. The Attorney General’s office has not released a public statement regarding the investigation request or whether the office has jurisdiction over the matter. Ben-Gvir has previously defended his prison policies, such as food reductions, as necessary security measures.
The development comes as New York officials debate the upcoming September visit of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the UN General Assembly. Mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani recently called for the federal government to arrest Netanyahu upon arrival. In response, Donald Trump stated on social media that the Prime Minister would not face arrest while in the United States.