Gillibrand Calls for Condemnation of “Globalization of Intifadas”

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) urged New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani to denounce the term “globalization of intifadas,” which seems to be associated with his campaign for mayor.

During a conversation on a show hosted by Brian Lehrer at WNYC, Gillibrand mentioned that constituents feel “very unstable” about Mamdani’s earlier defenses of people advocating for global intifadas.

She emphasized, “This is a very serious issue. Praising instances of Jewish violence incites fear in our community. The term global intifada suggests destruction against Israel and endangerment to Jewish lives.”

Gillibrand stressed the importance of ensuring safety for all New Yorkers if Mamdani is elected, which includes protecting the Jewish community and supporting houses of worship and community nonprofits.

The phrase has incited considerable discussion, especially in the wake of Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, and the ongoing conflict. This issue has become a focal point of criticism towards Mamdani leading up to this week’s Democratic primary.

Pro-Palestinian activists interpret this phrase as a call for liberation from Israeli occupation, while pro-Israeli activists view it as incitement to violence against Jews, referencing the first and second Intifadas of the late 20th century.

Last week, Mamdani faced backlash regarding his statement about a “deep desire for equality and equal rights” for Palestinians. He drew parallels between the calls for uprisings in the Warsaw Ghetto during the Holocaust and the current situation.

Mamdani referenced the US Holocaust Memorial Museum’s use of the term “intifada” in relation to the Warsaw uprising, leading the museum to issue a rare statement condemning such comparisons as disrespectful to survivors.

In the face of criticism, Mamdani has reiterated his dedication to combatting anti-Semitism and standing for all New Yorkers.

Gillibrand reported that she had discussed the matter with him, and he agreed to collaborate with her on ensuring safety for all city residents.

She stated, “He assured me he would protect everyone, but I can see why folks are concerned given his past remarks. It’s about finding a way to work together.”

Gillibrand also touched on Mamdani’s earlier use of the word “jihad,” although her communications director later clarified that this was an error and emphasized her primary concern was Mamdani’s hesitance in condemning “intifada globalization.”

“In a city as diverse as New York, he should clearly denounce it, considering we have the largest Jewish population in the nation,” she remarked. “You can’t celebrate or elevate such terms. Since October 7th, Jewish New Yorkers have truly felt the impact.”

While Gillibrand currently does not support Mamdani, she extended her congratulations on his primary victory.

The Hill reached out to Mamdani’s campaign for a response.

Mamdani is positioned to make a significant upset against former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo and is on track to become the Democratic candidate for mayor. Although he has yet to be officially declared the winner, Cuomo has acknowledged the primary results, and Mamdani has claimed victory.

Cuomo is weighing his options regarding an independent run in the general election.