New York City Democratic candidate Zoran Mamdani defended his backing of the anti-Israel Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement during an MSNBC interview this week. In his appearance on “Morning Joe,” when asked about his stance, Mamdani explained that he views BDS as a way to encourage Israel to follow international law.
“I support BDS because it’s a movement that demands compliance. We don’t see that happening,” he stated.
Co-host Willie Geist brought up concerns about how Mamdani could foster support from Jewish New Yorkers while endorsing BDS, especially given some fear he may harbor negative feelings toward Jews. The BDS movement has faced criticism, even from organizations like the Anti-Defamation League, which deem it naive and a potential catalyst for anti-Semitism.
Mamdani clarified that his criticism is aimed at the Israeli government, not its people. “Criticism of Israel should not be seen as a critique of its people or beliefs,” he emphasized. “My role is to represent all New Yorkers, regardless of their views on Israel and Palestine. Many have strong opinions—and I’m one of them.”
Jewish leaders have voiced alarm, asserting that Mamdani could pose risks to the Jewish community in New York City.
Rabbi Elliott Cosgrove of the Park Avenue Synagogue has openly stated that he believes Mamdani poses a danger to the safety of Jewish residents. Meanwhile, his rivals, former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa, claim he wouldn’t safeguard Jewish inhabitants should he win the election.
During the Democratic primary earlier this year, Mamdani didn’t denounce the phrase “globalizing the intifada,” which many interpret as a violent call against Jews, although some of his supporters claim it represents peaceful resistance. He later mentioned his intention to avoid using that phrase in future discussions.
Mamdani was also seen at a rally advocating for a state bill aimed at prohibiting “unauthorized support of Israeli settlement activities by nonprofit corporations.”
In response to questions about his future policies, he reiterated his support for nonviolent movements that promote compliance with international law, indicating that if there are violations, he would work towards correcting them.
At the end of the interview, he asserted he would commit to being a mayor for all Jewish New Yorkers.
