Jeffries Raises Concerns Over Mamdani’s Position on Anti-Israel Language
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries expressed on Sunday that if Zohran Mamdani aspires to become the mayor of New York City, he needs to clarify his stance regarding the phrase “globalize Intifada.” Jeffries shared these thoughts during an appearance on ABC’s “This Week,” where he voiced his apprehensions about Mamdani’s recent victory in the Democratic primary and his alleged associations with anti-Israel sentiments.
During the discussion, host Jonathan Karl pointed out Mamdani’s defense of the phrase “globalize Intifada,” which, according to some critics, carries an anti-Semitic implication. Jeffries responded, emphasizing that such language is unacceptable and that Mamdani must address his position moving forward. “For example, globalizing an intifada is not an acceptable phrase,” he stated. “As he moves ahead, he will have to clarify where he stands.”
Jeffries noted the importance for any mayoral candidate, particularly in relation to the Jewish community he represents, to convincingly address the growing issue of anti-Semitism in New York City. He remarked that regardless of who holds the mayoral office, there needs to be clear strategies and commitments to tackle rising anti-Semitic sentiment, alongside other pressing city challenges like housing.
Although Jeffries has not yet endorsed Mamdani, he did recently reach out to congratulate him on his campaign. He clarified that their lack of a solid relationship so far is why he hasn’t committed to supporting him yet but indicated a willingness to meet and discuss further.
In a related development, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand has also urged Mamdani to denounce the rhetoric surrounding “intifada globalization.” During an interview on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Mamdani dodged a direct condemnation of the phrase. He expressed concerns about labeling language as acceptable or not, suggesting that such scrutiny could lead to a slippery slope. This hints at a reluctance to firmly oppose phrases that some interpret as controversial.
