New York City Mayor Justin Mamdani has faced significant backlash for his perceived delay in condemning pro-Hamas chants during a protest outside a Queens synagogue. The demonstration occurred on November 16, 2023, outside the Young Israel of Kew Gardens Hills, a location known for its large Jewish population. Protesters were rallying against a real estate event that promoted opportunities in Jerusalem, a topic that has sparked contention due to ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Demonstrators reportedly chanted, “Say it loud, say it clear, we support Hamas here!” in support of the militant group, which launched a deadly attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. The protest also featured pro-Israeli counter-demonstrators, some of whom allegedly shouted racist slurs, as reported by the New York Times.
The incident sparked immediate outrage among local leaders. Governor Kathy Hochul took to social media, stating, “Hamas is a terrorist organization that calls for the genocide of Jews. No matter your political beliefs, this type of rhetoric is disgusting, it’s dangerous, and it has no place in New York.” Her remarks came shortly after footage of the protest went viral, amplifying calls for a swift response from the mayor.
Critics noted that Mamdani did not issue a public statement until around 1 p.m. on Friday, following former Mayor Eric Adams, who had already condemned the demonstrators. In his response, Mamdani acknowledged the situation, stating, “My team is in close touch with the N.Y.P.D. regarding last night’s protest and counterprotest. We will continue to ensure New Yorkers’ safety entering and exiting houses of worship, as well as the constitutional right to protest.”
As the scrutiny intensified, Mamdani reiterated his stance later in the day, emphasizing that chants supporting terrorist organizations are unacceptable in New York City. He reiterated on social media, “Chants in support of a terrorist organization have no place in our city.”
The protests echo previous tensions in New York, particularly a similar demonstration outside the Park East Synagogue on November 19, 2023. That protest also led to controversy, with the NYPD facing criticism for its handling of the situation. NYPD Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch later apologized for the lack of adequate police presence at that event.
When questioned about his delayed response, Mamdani defended his timing, stating that his comments were aligned with his own political beliefs and policies. “Not only was that wrong, but also that it has no place in our city,” he asserted.
The mayor’s handling of these sensitive issues has drawn close attention from New York’s Jewish community, particularly regarding his previous comments and stances on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Mamdani’s responses to the protests will likely continue to shape public opinion and political discourse in the city as tensions surrounding these issues persist.
