Jewish lawmakers have indirectly accused Mayor Zoran Mamdani of inciting anti-Semitism by linking his criticism of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to recent stabbings on the Upper West Side. In a video that has garnered over 90 million views, Mamdani called Netanyahu a “war criminal.” Following a stabbing incident in which a suspect shouted “Allah Akbar,” authorities charged Raul Morales with a hate crime, with police suggesting possible mental illness as a factor. Democratic congressional candidate Micah Lasher urged Mamdani to temper his rhetoric, emphasizing the need for leadership to ensure safety for all New Yorkers.
Attorney General Letitia James highlighted a worrying rise in anti-Semitism while noting the ongoing investigations. Mamdani responded to the attacks by stating that his comments about Netanyahu were based on objective facts and aimed at political leaders, not any specific group. He retracted a past threat to arrest Netanyahu, asserting that the prime minister is unwelcome in New York City. Other Jewish leaders, including City Comptroller Mark Levine and City Council President Julie Menin, echoed concerns about rising anti-Semitism and the importance of responsible rhetoric.
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