Kyrie Irving and Victor Wembanyama Show Support for Controversial Remarks
Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving and San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama recently liked an Instagram video featuring New York City Mayor Zoran Mamdani, who labeled Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a “war criminal.” In this video, he called for federal authorities to arrest Netanyahu if he visits New York City.
This marked one of the strongest anti-Israel statements since Mamdani took office. In the video, Mamdani accused Netanyahu of committing genocide against Palestinians and suggested that the federal government should follow through with an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court.
Interestingly, the video gained significant attention and led to a backlash, as Mamdani’s comments failed to address Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7. Both Wembanyama and Irving’s apparent endorsement of this charged rhetoric drew criticism, with some labeling it as anti-Semitic and reckless.
Mamdani Calls for Action Against Netanyahu
Mamdani acknowledged that New York City lacks the authority to arrest Netanyahu but urged the federal government to take action instead. “Benyamin Netanyahu is a war criminal and the mastermind of a horrific genocide against the Palestinian people,” he declared. He further implicated Netanyahu in the civilian deaths in Gaza, attributing the responsibility for countless casualties to him.
Mamdani stated, “He is responsible for killing more than 73,000 people… targeting neonatal hospitals and maternity care centers,” while alleging that humanitarian aid was blocked and aid workers were shot by Israeli forces.
Jewish advocacy groups quickly called out Mamdani’s statements, arguing that his comments could fuel rising anti-Semitism.
Irving’s History with Controversial Statements
Irving’s involvement in this situation is notable given his past controversies regarding anti-Semitic sentiments. Back in 2022, while with the Brooklyn Nets, he was suspended for promoting a film that contained Holocaust denial. Although he has since apologized and engaged in discussions with the Jewish community, this latest endorsement raises concerns about his views.
The Mavericks acquired Irving from the Nets in 2023, and since then, he has largely avoided similar controversies. OutKick has reached out to both Irving and Wembanyama’s representatives for comment but has not received a response as of yet.
