NYC Mayoral Candidate Zohran Mamdani Defends Support for Boycott,Divestment,and Sanctions Movement
new york City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani reaffirmed his support for the Boycott,Divestment,and Sanctions (BDS) movement during a recent interview on MSNBC,sparking concern among some Jewish community leaders.Mamdani stated he would support “non-violent movements to bring about compliance with international law,” signaling a potential shift in city policy regarding Israel.
The controversy stems from Mamdani’s past statements and actions advocating for policies critical of Israeli government actions.His position has drawn criticism from those who view BDS as antisemitic, while supporters maintain it is indeed a legitimate form of protest against specific Israeli policies. The debate arrives as New York City grapples with rising antisemitism and heightened tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, making the issue particularly sensitive for voters.
During the MSNBC interview, Mamdani was pressed on whether BDS would be the policy of his administration. He responded, “I’ve saeid that I would support and have supported non-violent movements to bring about compliance with international law. And where this mayor [Eric Adams] has violated and looked to violate that kind of law, I would bring us back into compliance.”
earlier,at a rally,Mamdani questioned New York state’s financial support for what he termed “settler crimes,” asking,”Are we ready to end New York state subsidy of settler crimes? Are we ready to say,’Not on our dime?'”
Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove of Park Avenue Synagogue warned his congregation that Mamdani poses a threat to Jewish new Yorkers,according to Fox News. Mamdani, though, stated during the interview that he would be a mayor “for all Jewish New Yorkers.”
The outcome of the mayoral race could substantially impact New York city’s relationship with Israel and its approach to addressing antisemitism. The election is scheduled for November 5, 2024.
