New York City Democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani marked the second anniversary of the October 7 Hamas attacks with a statement that mourned Israeli victims but condemned Israel’s military response in Gaza as a “genocidal war,” prompting a sharp rebuke from the Israeli Foreign Ministry.
On Tuesday, October 7, 2025, Mamdani released a detailed statement reflecting on the two years since Hamas militants killed over 1,100 Israelis and abducted 250 others. He expressed mourning for the lives lost and prayers for the safe return of hostages still held in Gaza. However, he quickly pivoted to criticize the Israeli government and its prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, for launching what he described as a devastating war that has caused immense Palestinian casualties. Mamdani emphasized the need to remember all victims while calling for an end to the violence that has gripped the region.
In his remarks, Mamdani accused the United States government of being “complicit” in the conflict, highlighting a death toll that “far exceeds 67,000” in Gaza, with widespread destruction of homes, hospitals, and schools. He stated that “every day in Gaza has become a place where grief itself has run out of language,” underscoring the severe humanitarian crisis and the loss of civilian life. The candidate called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and an end to Israeli “occupation and apartheid,” framing the issue as a matter of human rights and international law. His words aimed to balance remembrance with a forceful critique of ongoing military actions.
The statement drew an immediate and forceful response from the Israeli Foreign Ministry, which reposted Mamdani’s words on X and accused him of “acting as a mouthpiece for Hamas propaganda.” The ministry’s post claimed he was “spreading Hamas’s fake genocide campaign” and “excusing terror,” adding that he “stands with Jews only when they are dead” and labeling his remarks as “shameful.” This rebuke highlighted the deep divisions over the conflict and the sensitivity of political discourse surrounding it. The exchange quickly gained attention on social media and in news cycles, amplifying the controversy.
This incident underscores the ongoing tensions in the New York City mayoral race, where the Israel-Hamas war has become a significant flashpoint. Mamdani, a democratic socialist, has long been a critic of Israel’s policies, describing the country as an apartheid state while affirming its right to exist with equal rights for all residents. His views have garnered support from progressive segments of the Jewish community but have also faced strong opposition from more conservative groups. The race pits his unapologetic stance against more moderate positions, reflecting broader national debates.
Later on Tuesday, Mamdani attended a vigil in Manhattan organized by Israelis for Peace, an anti-occupation group calling for a ceasefire and hostage release. He sat alongside New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, a former rival now campaigning for him, listening to speakers who advocated for an end to the violence and equal rights for Palestinians. This appearance demonstrated his efforts to engage with diverse communities and build bridges amid the polarization. The vigil served as a somber reminder of the human cost on all sides of the conflict.
The rebuke from Israel is not an isolated event; Mamdani has faced previous criticism for his stance on the conflict, including past refusals to condemn phrases like “globalize the intifada,” which he has since said he would discourage. He has also reiterated intentions to order the NYPD to arrest Netanyahu if he visits New York, further polarizing opinions. Recent polls show divided support among Jewish voters, with about 35% backing Mamdani, indicating the complex electoral landscape he navigates. Critics, including commentators from outlets like Fox News, have labeled his statements as obscene or supportive of extremism.
As the mayoral election approaches, this episode illustrates the challenges Mamdani faces in balancing his progressive base with broader electoral appeal. The sharp exchange with Israel may influence voter perceptions, particularly in a city with the largest Jewish population outside Israel and a significant Arab community. The outcome could shape not only local politics but also the national discourse on U.S.-Israel relations, highlighting how international issues resonate in urban governance. Moving forward, Mamdani will need to address concerns about antisemitism while upholding his principles, as the campaign intensifies.