DSA Criticizes Ceasefire Agreement
The Democratic Socialists of America, which supports New York mayoral candidate Zoran Mamdani, issued a statement on Monday condemning the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. They emphasized the need for ongoing resistance against Israel.
This declaration, titled “Until the liberation of Palestine,” was released shortly after a deal brokered by the United States and Arab nations called for a halt in fighting, along with a plan for exchanging hostages and prisoners.
The organization described the ceasefire as “conditional,” asserting it does not end attacks on Palestinians or the ongoing occupation of their land. They criticized the ruling class for continuing the violence and supplying arms while igniting regional conflicts.
While acknowledging some potential relief for Palestinians from the humanitarian agreement, the DSA expressed skepticism about Israel’s commitment to honor any agreements aimed at protecting Palestinian lives and their right to self-determination.
The group expressed concern that previous ceasefires have merely postponed the ongoing violence, remarking that Israel conducts military actions without accountability.
With around 85,000 members, the socialist organization advocates for ending Israel’s colonization of Arab lands, promoting equality, and asserting the right of refugees to return to their homes.
The DSA committed to combating what they refer to as the American imperial war machine that supports Israel, along with reinforcing their boycott and divestment initiatives against the country.
This statement aligns with the recent ceasefire plan, which includes the release of 20 Israeli hostages and the return of deceased hostages’ remains in exchange for approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. It also facilitates humanitarian aid to Gaza and opens discussions on reconstruction under international oversight.
Following the hostage release, Mamdani called for an end to “occupation and apartheid,” acknowledging the emotional scenes as families reunited after prolonged separation due to fear and trauma.
The campaigns of the leading candidates for mayor are closely tied to the DSA. They endorsed Mamdani before his formal mayoral swearing-in, and he reportedly paid over $33,000 for texting and fundraising services through the New York City DSA.
Local leaders at a recent chapter meeting mentioned that candidates they support must align with the desires of DSA members, indicating many of Mamdani’s staff are actively involved in the organization.
The national leadership of DSA has also displayed a clear stance regarding Israel. At its August convention, they passed a resolution threatening to expel members who do not support the boycott and divestment efforts or engage with pro-Israel groups, reaffirming the principles of Palestinian resistance.
Mamdani has noted that his platform diverges from the national DSA’s stance, but he has not explicitly commented on his views regarding the Middle East conflict.
Recently, Mamdani participated in a fundraising 5K event for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), which has faced accusations from Israeli authorities regarding its staff’s involvement in the October 7 Hamas attack.
Sharing a photo from the run, he highlighted UNRWA’s role in providing essential humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza.
In response, Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) criticized the event, alleging that Mamdani was supporting an organization connected to terrorism.
The DSA concluded its statement with a call for justice for Palestinians, insisting that the fight for liberation would persist until all demands for justice are met.
The Post has attempted to reach Mamdani for a response.
