In a controversial statement, Israeli Minister for Diaspora Affairs Amichai Chikli has called on Jewish Americans in New York to consider relocating to Israel following the election of Zohran Mamdani as the city’s first Muslim mayor. Chikli described Mamdani’s victory as a pivotal moment that threatens the historical sanctuary New York has provided to Jewish refugees. He labeled Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist and assemblyman from Queens, as a “Hamas supporter” and drew parallels between his views and those of extremist groups, referencing the 9/11 attacks. Chikli’s remarks have sparked widespread debate, particularly given his past controversial stances on ethnic cleansing and settlements in Gaza and southern Lebanon. Mamdani, who immigrated to the U.S. from Uganda as a child, ran a left-wing campaign with a strong pro-Palestinian stance, which he maintained despite accusations of antisemitism. His victory was bolstered by his position on Israel’s actions in Gaza, which he has termed genocide. Although he later retracted a statement about arresting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Mamdani’s views resonated with many voters. In his victory speech, he pledged to combat antisemitism and Islamophobia, receiving support from prominent Orthodox Jewish leader Rabbi Moishe Indig. The election has highlighted deep divisions and the growing influence of progressive politics in New York.
Israeli minister urges Jews to flee ‘Hamas supporter’ Mamdani after New York mayoral win
