9/11 Anniversary Ceremony in Manhattan

During the recent anniversary ceremony in Manhattan, a relative of a firefighter who lost his life on September 11 captured an image of Zoran Mamdani getting entangled in a veil.

Mike Weinstein, 61, voiced his concerns to applause from the crowd, which included Democratic mayoral candidates and various officials. “They are inviting another 9/11, God forbid,” he said.

Weinstein paid tribute to Stephen Belson, a firefighter with 23 years of service, who died trying to save someone trapped in the South Tower of the World Trade Center.

Belson, known for his past as a swimmer, surfer, and lifeguard at Rockaway Beach, was part of Ladder 24 Engine 1, located near Madison Square Garden.

Weinstein expressed his feelings passionately, stating, “I know my cousin Steve and many others share my views. We need to keep pressuring politicians, both those who’ve returned home and others.” He spoke about the need to stand against fear and violence.

“When political figures and public servants shy away from condemning global anxieties and phrases like ‘globalization of intifadas,’ they risk inviting another 9/11, God forbid,” he added, stressing that enough is enough.

He further asserted the necessity for all political candidates to unite against fear and advocate for freedom in the city.

Mamdani, on the other hand, chose not to condemn certain phrases yet advised against their usage. In response during an interview, he mentioned, “That’s not the language I use.” He emphasized that his approach is rooted in universal human rights beliefs.