Mamdani Calls for Ceasefire on Anniversary of Hamas Attacks

NEW YORK (AP) — New York City Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani issued a powerful statement on the anniversary of the October 7 Hamas attacks, reflecting on the deaths of Israelis and the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

On Tuesday, Mamdani, who is running for mayor, marked the two years since Hamas’s actions, which he said resulted in over 1,100 Israeli deaths and 250 kidnappings. He expressed deep sorrow for the victims and their families, while also advocating for an end to the violence.

“I mourn these lives and pray for the safe return of every hostage still held and for every family whose lives were torn apart by these atrocities,” Mamdani stated. He criticized the U.S. and Israeli governments, labeling their actions as part of a “genocidal war.”

“A death toll that now far exceeds 67,000; with the Israeli military bombing homes, hospitals, and schools into rubble,” he said. “Every day in Gaza has become a place where grief itself has run out of language.”

Mamdani’s remarks sparked significant backlash from the Israeli Foreign Ministry, which accused him of propagating Hamas’s narrative and trivializing the suffering of Jewish victims. In an online statement, they said, “By repeating Hamas’s lies, he excuses terror and normalizes antisemitism. He stands with Jews only when they are dead. Shameful.”

The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict has heightened tensions in New York City, home to a large Jewish population and a vibrant Arab community. Mamdani’s candidacy is being closely watched, as he has made controversial comments regarding Israel, labeling it an apartheid state and calling for equal rights for Palestinians.

This week, Mamdani also attended a vigil in Manhattan that was organized by Israelis for Peace, where he sat alongside City Comptroller Brad Lander. The event, which commemorated both Israeli and Palestinian victims, emphasized the need to end hostilities.

Mamdani has previously been a critic of the Israeli government, and he has voiced support for the Palestinian cause. His statements have increased scrutiny and divided opinions, especially among the Jewish community in New York.

As the mayoral race continues, Mamdani remains focused on addressing the violence and calls for dignity and justice for all communities affected by the conflict.