Zohran Mamdani, a candidate in the Democratic primary for New York City mayor, faced backlash from Jewish organizations after defending the slogan “globalize the intifada.” In an interview, he connected the phrase to a desire for Palestinian human rights and even invoked the U.S. Holocaust Museum’s descriptions of the Warsaw Uprising. His comments drew sharp condemnation, notably from the U.S. Holocaust Museum, which called his remarks “outrageous” and emphasized that the term has historically been associated with violence against Jews. Prominent figures, including Jonathan Greenblatt of the Anti-Defamation League and Rep. Dan Goldman, criticized Mamdani for failing to denounce the phrase, linking it to a history of violence against Israelis.
The context of his comments comes amid increased antisemitism in New York City since the recent conflict in Gaza. Former Governor Andrew Cuomo, a frontrunner in the mayoral race, called for all candidates to denounce Mamdani’s remarks, stressing that words can fuel hate and violence.
Mamdani, a 33-year-old democratic socialist endorsed by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, has seen a surge in support among progressives, which has narrowed Cuomo’s lead. In response to the backlash, Mamdani expressed distress at being labeled an antisemite, asserting his commitment to fighting antisemitism while recounting threats he has received.
As the Democratic primary approaches on June 24, Mamdani’s controversial stance on Israel and his advocacy for Palestinian rights have become focal points, with his candidacy attracting both support and significant criticism amid a charged political landscape.
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