Firefighter’s Cousin Criticizes Candidate for Controversial Phrase

During a recent anniversary ceremony, Mike Weinstein, aged 61, honored his cousin Stephen Belson, a firefighter who died on 9/11 while trying to rescue those trapped in the South Tower of the World Trade Center. In his speech, Weinstein took a subtle shot at New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, criticizing him for not denouncing the slogan “globalization of intifadas.”

Weinstein urged all politicians to rise above fear and violence, warning that failing to condemn such phrases could “invite another 9/11.” He emphasized the need for unity among New Yorkers to oppose fear and promote freedom, particularly as the 24th anniversary of the attacks approaches.

Mamdani, who secured the Democratic nomination earlier this year, has previously avoided outright condemnation of the phrase. However, he expressed disappointment over the language and suggested he had reassessed his stance after discussions with Jewish community leaders about the potential harm the slogan may cause.

The term “Globalize the Intifada” is often viewed as an anti-Zionist slogan that calls for international support for Palestinian resistance against Israel. Critics argue it incites violence and poses risks to Jewish individuals. While Mamdani has described the phrase as a plea for equality, he later admitted it doesn’t represent the language he typically uses.

This evolving narrative has left many New Yorkers skeptical, particularly as Mamdani continues to clarify his position. He reiterated that his leadership approach focuses on universal human rights, reflecting a desire to balance advocacy for Palestinian rights with the sensitivities of the Jewish community in New York.