Mayor Accused of Distorting Israel’s Founding History
Mayor Zoran Mamdani is facing criticism for allegedly “corrupting history” regarding the establishment of Israel. This comes after he made a controversial social media post praising Palestinians just as Jewish New Yorkers were getting ready to celebrate Shabbat.
Known for his strong opposition to Israel, Mamdani highlighted the May 14, 1948 declaration of Israel’s independence on “Nakba Day,” which Palestinians refer to as a “disaster.” He shared this sentiment in a post late Friday that featured a video interview with Inea Boushnak, a self-identified “Nakba survivor” living in the city.
“Today is Nakba Day, commemorating the expulsion of over 700,000 Palestinians between 1947 and 1949 during Israel’s formation,” Mamdani wrote on his official “X” account.
Boushnak, in the shared video, recounted her experiences, explaining that at the age of nine, she had to leave her home due to what she described as “Zionists coming into Jerusalem.”
The video also asserted that the forced displacement of Palestinians is an ongoing issue.
Critics have been vocal about Mamdani’s comments. Dov Hikind, founder of Americans Against Anti-Semitism, labeled the mayor as “dangerous,” claiming he is inciting hatred. Hikind asserted that Mamdani is misrepresenting history and is not aware of the complexities surrounding the situation. He highlighted that while the United Nations suggested a plan for a Palestinian state alongside Israel, it was rejected by five Arab nations, triggering war.
Ultimately, Israel emerged victorious, and those Arab nations later designated a day to reflect on their defeat.
Mamdani’s remarks sparked significant backlash on social media, with many accusing him of promoting “political propaganda disguised as sympathy” and rewriting historical narratives.
“It’s important to remember that around 850,000 Jews were also expelled or made to flee Arab countries during the following years,” one upset commenter pointed out.
Despite ongoing anti-Israel protests, which continue to occur across New York, including outside synagogues, Mamdani has yet to denounce any of the violent protests and instead has shown support for them.
Some have criticized his portrayal of “Nakba Day” as merely a day of mourning, arguing it forwards a narrative that rejects Israel’s existence. In a context where Jews are already experiencing heightened harassment and violence, such views can foster further hostility.
“By omitting crucial historical context, you’re putting Jews everywhere at risk,” expressed Moshe Spern, president of the National Jewish Teachers Association, expressing his frustration on social media.
Since announcing his presidential run last year, Mamdani has received pushback for various controversial remarks, particularly regarding his views on Israel, leading to a strained relationship with local Jewish leaders.
First Lady Rama Duwaj has also faced scrutiny for her social media activity, including past posts that appeared to praise Palestinian terrorists and criticize Israel. She has previously apologized for any hurt caused by her posts but has not directly recanted the contents of her critical remarks about Israel.
