NYC Mayoral Candidate Zohran Mamdani Faces Backlash Over BDS Support Amid Israel Controversy

Democratic socialist mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani reaffirmed his support for the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement targeting Israel Thursday night, while notably sidestepping questions over whether he recognizes Israel’s right to exist as a Jewish state.

Speaking at a candidate forum hosted by the UJA-Federation of New York, Mamdani characterized the Palestinian-led BDS effort as a "legitimate movement" and defended its tactics as in line with his commitment to non-violence. He stated, "My support for BDS is consistent with the core of my politics, which is non-violence," emphasizing that the movement seeks compliance with international law through peaceful means such as boycott, divestment, and sanctions.

Pressed further on whether Israel should exist specifically as a Jewish state, Mamdani responded, "I believe Israel has a right to exist, and it has a right to exist also with equal rights for all," choosing not to directly address the question of Israel's identity as a Jewish nation.

Mamdani, who currently serves as a state assemblyman from Queens and is backed by the Democratic Socialists of America, faced sustained questioning about his views on Israel throughout the event. The forum gained added significance, held just days after a separate incident in which two staff members at the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C., were shot. Security at the forum was described as extremely tight, with organizers reportedly revoking tickets for several attendees.

The controversy around Mamdani’s stance deepened after video surfaced of him leading a "BDS" chant during a May 2021 demonstration against Israeli policies. Despite this, attendees at the forum greeted him warmly, according to recordings obtained by the press, who were otherwise barred from attending the event in person.

During his 20-minute appearance, Mamdani was also asked about previous comments suggesting he would direct the New York Police Department to arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, should the leader visit New York, in light of outstanding International Criminal Court warrants. Mamdani defended his position as consistent with upholding international law, noting, "I would have the same answer if I was asked the question about Russian President Vladimir Putin."

A spokesperson for Mamdani’s campaign, Andrew Epstein, reiterated the candidate’s long-held beliefs in a written statement, saying, "Zohran has been consistent in his belief that Israel has the right to exist, a responsibility to adhere to international law, and that he supports non-violent movements to ensure compliance with that law." Epstein added that Mamdani was encouraged by the positive reception to his broader vision for the city.

Mamdani remains a polarizing figure in the mayoral race, having trailed behind former Governor Andrew Cuomo in recent polls. His criticism of Israel and refusal to sign onto resolutions recognizing Israel and the Holocaust have drawn backlash from segments of the Jewish community, though his campaign attributed the latter to a procedural error.

The tensions come at a critical time for New York politics, with Mamdani recently receiving an endorsement from former Representative Jamaal Bowman, another progressive known for outspoken views on Israel. Mamdani also continues to advocate for the "Not On Our Dime Act," legislation aimed at preventing New York-based nonprofits from supporting organizations linked to West Bank settlements.

As the primary campaign intensifies, Mamdani’s positions on Israel and Middle East policy remain a flashpoint within the city’s diverse electorate, particularly given New York’s status as home to the world’s largest Jewish population outside Israel.