Mamdani criticized by fellow Democrats for statement mourning Oct. 7 attacks while condemning Israel

Key Points:

• New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani marked the third anniversary of Hamas' attack on Israel by condemning the attack but also sharply criticizing Israel's actions in Gaza, calling it an "ongoing genocide" and condemning U.S. support for Israel's military efforts.
• Mamdani's statement sparked strong backlash from Democratic politicians and Jewish groups who accused him of focusing too much criticism on Israel and downplaying the suffering caused by Hamas, with some calling his remarks inflammatory and disrespectful to victims.
• The Anti-Defamation League and Israeli officials also condemned Mamdani's statement, accusing him of weaponizing the anniversary to promote anti-Zionist views and failing to explicitly mention Jewish victims.
• Mamdani, a vocal critic of Israel and U.S. aid to it, has faced ongoing scrutiny and hostility from moderates and Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Netanyahu, who accused him of antisemitism and distorting facts.
• Despite the controversy, Mamdani maintains that criticism of Israel is not antisemitism and recently introduced a plan to combat antisemitism in New York City, including a hotline and increased synagogue security.