Yisroel R.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s motorcade passed through the Kiryas Joel and Monsey areas Thursday morning, bringing traffic on the New York State Thruway to a standstill as he traveled to New York City to address the United Nations General Assembly.

Netanyahu arrived at Stewart International Airport before traveling south toward Manhattan under heavy security. The southbound side of the Thruway was completely shut down along portions of his route, with trucks positioned to prevent vehicles from making U-turns and helicopters providing additional security overhead, as part of the large police presence.

Prime Minister Netanyahu is visiting New York for the annual United Nations General Assembly, which brings together world leaders, heads of state, and government officials from around the globe. This year marks the 81st session of the General Assembly, with its annual general debate taking place from September 22 through September 28. During the gathering, leaders deliver speeches outlining their countries’ positions on major international issues, including global security, ongoing conflicts, and international cooperation.

Netanyahu’s appearance comes amid continued international tensions surrounding Israel’s military operations in Gaza and growing criticism of Israeli government policies. His visit has also attracted particular attention in New York City, where Mayor Zohran Mamdani has previously threatened to arrest Netanyahu over an International Criminal Court warrant, although the mayor has acknowledged limits on his legal authority. Protests are also expected during the prime minister’s visit.

Netanyahu is expected to use his address to defend the military actions and respond to international criticism. Unlike previous visits to the United States, his trip is expected to be brief, and is expected to return to Israel shortly after his address.

Thursday’s visit is a brief but highly secured trip that brought an unusual level of security and attention to the Thruway corridor through Kiryas Joel and Monsey.