Zohran Mamdani, a democratic socialist openly critical of Israel, has found himself under fire again. Critics claim he’s made “Zionists” the butt of insulting jokes.
Jewish New Yorkers voiced their outrage after a recently resurfaced video of Mamdani speaking at an event for American democratic socialists from 2023. In the video, he quipped, “If you don’t applaud for El Yothem, you’re a Zionist!”
Mamdani was referring to Khader El-Yateem, a Lutheran pastor and Palestinian organizer who unsuccessfully ran for a Brooklyn City Council seat in 2017.
The 33-year-old councillor from Queens added, “I’m kidding, there’s no need to applaud.” But the reaction from Israeli supporters wasn’t laughter.
Podcaster Blake Freighton remarked that using “Zionists” as a slur in the mainstream liberal dialogue has become one of the most significant antisemitic trends of the 21st century. He commented, “This guy looks like he could be mayor of New York. We should all be Zionists.” He seemed to think people haven’t grasped the gravity of the situation.
Others defended Mamdani, arguing that he was clearly joking. Freighton, however, was dismissive, stating that such jokes aren’t funny at all. “I hate it,” said Todd Richman, co-founder of Israel’s democratic majority.
Richman expressed skepticism about Mamdani’s commitment to the Jewish community, noting, “He has perpetuated an anti-Zionist, antisemitic narrative since college. Why would he change now?”
Joseph Potanic, executive vice president of the New York Ravis Committee, pointed out the need for Mamdani to address his problematic past comments. He remarked that New York City’s large Jewish population—most of whom are pro-Israel or Zionists—would hold him accountable.
Former Queens Councillor Rory Rankman called attention to Mamdani’s history of anti-Israel statements, suggesting that his views fundamentally oppose the rights and security of Jewish people.
Mamdani reportedly believes that all Jews should compromise their positions. In a 2023 speech, he expressed his alliance with the boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel, claiming, “Our socialist politics are consistent, universal, and oppose injustice anywhere.”
The Prevention League has labeled the BDS movement as antisemitic, arguing it seeks to undermine Israel, the only Jewish state. Mamdani has been an outspoken supporter of this boycott movement, even leading chants for it at Palestinian parent rallies and criticizing other elected officials for visiting Israel.
Despite facing backlash, Mamdani has been gaining attention since winning the Democratic primary, where he faced off against ex-Governor Andrew Cuomo among others. Now, he’s working to broaden his support as he gears up for the November general election, reaching out to business leaders and Jewish officials.
His campaign has not commented on the “You are a Zionist” remarks. Mamdani’s past refusal to denounce the phrase “globalize the intifada” has also raised eyebrows. After some discussions with Jewish officials, he said he now discourages its use.
Previously, he faced criticism for defending Anwar al-Aulaki and once tweeted about how the US turns certain clergy into terrorists.
