Just a few hours after Zoran Mamdani, who is known for his anti-Israel stance, was elected as mayor, a red swastika appeared on the front of a yeshiva in Brooklyn. This incident has raised concerns about what some are describing as a “normalization of anti-Semitism.”
A security guard reported the symbols around 6:30 a.m. after noticing them painted in red on the pillars and windows of the Magen David Yeshiva, located on McDonald Street in Gravesend.
Authorities mentioned that the suspect, dressed entirely in black during the act, managed to flee on foot and had not been apprehended by Wednesday morning.
The graffiti prompted a strong reaction from Republican Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, who urged Mayor-elect Mamdani to promptly condemn this act.
“Brooklyn’s Jewish community wakes to find two swastikas at Magen David Yeshiva,” she stated, emphasizing the need for immediate action. Malliotakis represents parts of Staten Island and southern Brooklyn.
She added, “While @NYPDHateCrimes investigates, the next mayor must unequivocally condemn this hateful graffiti… It’s time to represent and protect all New Yorkers.”
Additionally, Pinny Ringel, the leader of the 48th Congressional District, expressed his solidarity, stating, “Hate has no place in this city, and everyone should condemn it.”
This troubling event occurred shortly after several Jewish organizations indicated they would hold Mamdani, 34, accountable for his anti-Israel rhetoric during his campaign.
Sarah Forman, executive director of the New York Solidarity Network, noted, “Tonight, the quiet normalization of anti-Semitism became very loud. For years, Mayor-elect Mamdani’s work has been shrouded in coded language about Jews, performative boycotts, exclusion, and open hostility toward Israel.”
She highlighted the worry that his views now have a platform in a city with the largest Jewish community in the diaspora.
