Resolution Against “Globalization of Intifadas”
Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) proposed a bipartisan resolution on Thursday that condemned the “globalization of intifadas” as a call to violence against Israel and Jews.
This resolution, which Gottheimer co-introduced with Rep. Rudy Yakym (R-Ind.), comes just after a meeting between Gottheimer and other Democrats with New York City mayoral candidate Zohar Mamdani.
Mamdani declined to denounce the slogan, which is often used by anti-Israel activists in New York City.
“There should be no ambiguity. ‘Intifada globalization’ is hate speech, plain and simple,” Gottheimer stated. He explained that “intifada” refers to violent attacks that have claimed many Jewish lives. He argued that promoting this idea is a direct call to violence against Jews and needs to be condemned.
Mamdani, a vocal critic of Israel, defended the activists’ use of “globalization of intifadas” but hesitated to denounce it in various interviews. In one instance, during his appearance on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” he maintained that this phrasing does not reflect his language or intentions.
“I don’t think the mayor’s role is to police speeches like that,” he remarked, reinforcing his position on universal human rights.
Gottheimer expressed skepticism about Mamdani’s stance after a recent meeting, saying, “I don’t think higher taxes, anti-jobs create socialism and accepting anti-Semitic rhetoric is the right direction for America.” Still, he indicated he was willing to learn how to communicate better with others.
Queens lawmakers labeled the chant as indicative of a “hopeless desire for equal rights for Palestinians,” a sentiment that gained attention last month.
Another state assemblyman spoke out on Thursday, declaring that the chant “is ramping across our country” and labeling it “crazy and unacceptable.” He insisted that everyone must oppose such hate speech.
The slogan has been associated with violent uprisings against Israel. Following the terrorist attacks since October 7, 2023, it has served as a rallying cry for many activists opposing Israel’s military actions against Hamas.
“These words incite violence, fuel hatred, and endanger Jewish families,” the Jewish lawmaker expressed.
A report from the Prevention League noted that 2024 is shaping up to be the worst year for anti-Semitic incidents in the United States. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) recorded a staggering 9,354 instances of anti-Semitic assault, harassment, and vandalism last year, reflecting a 5% increase from 2023 and a 344% rise over five years.
“With anti-Semitic violence reaching record levels, it’s crucial to condemn this anti-Semitic hate speech and work together to combat the growing hatred against Jews,” Gottheimer emphasized.
