A video has surfaced showing Zoran Mamdani, a self-styled socialist Democratic mayoral candidate, being chased out of Foley Square in New York City by angry protesters. They accused him of anti-Semitism and demanded that he condemn Hezbollah as well as Islamic law. This scene unfolded on a Friday, with protesters shouting and drumming as Mamdani’s security tried to guide him to safety.
As he was being escorted to a waiting vehicle, a protester shouted at him: “Condemn Hezbollah! Condemn Islamic law!” The demonstrators did not relent, labeling him an “anti-Semite” as they trailed behind him. When security intervened, they formed a protective line around him while escorting him toward his car, which was seen trying to leave amidst the chaos.
Earlier that week, Mamdani had been at Foley Square in support of New York Attorney General Letitia James, who is facing charges related to mortgage fraud involving a property in Virginia. Throughout the event, he faced pressure from protesters to disavow Hezbollah and other contentious slogans.
Mamdani has previously vowed to oppose incitement to violence and anti-Semitism. However, he stopped short of outright disapproval, suggesting that public officials shouldn’t police language. Just a couple of days ago, he addressed the October 7, 2023, terrorist attack in Israel, expressing his sorrow for the victims and hostages taken by Hamas.
He remarked, “Two years ago, Hamas committed horrific war crimes that resulted in the death of over 1,100 Israelis and the abduction of another 250. I mourn these lives and pray for the safe return of all hostages and families affected by these horrific events.” He further commented on the tragic death toll in Gaza due to Israeli military actions.
Mamdani’s remarks were shared by the Israeli Foreign Ministry on social media, accusing him of being a voice for Hamas propaganda. They criticized his statements, saying he perpetuated lies from Hamas, thus normalizing anti-Semitism. The Ministry expressed disappointment, indicating that he only seemed to support the Jewish community when it was convenient.
As of now, Mamdani’s office has not issued a response regarding these allegations and criticisms.
