Mamdani Joins 'Israelis for Peace' Vigil

New York City Democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, attended a vigil in Manhattan organised by 'Israelis for Peace', an anti-occupation group advocating for a ceasefire and the release of Israeli hostages. The event, held in Union Square, marked the two-year anniversary of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israel.

Mamdani, who is the Democratic nominee for mayor in the upcoming November 4, 2025, election, sat alongside New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, a former rival for the Democratic nomination who has been campaigning for him. Speakers at the vigil called for an end to the conflict, Israel's occupation, and equal rights for Palestinians.

Controversial Statement Precedes Vigil

Earlier on Tuesday, Mamdani issued a statement commemorating both Israeli and Palestinian victims of the conflict, which drew sharp criticism from Israel. In his statement, Mamdani condemned the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks as a "horrific war crime," acknowledging the killing of over 1,100 Israelis and the kidnapping of 250 others. He expressed mourning for the lives lost and prayed for the safe return of all hostages.

However, Mamdani also denounced Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government for what he termed a "genocidal war" in Gaza, accusing the U.S. government of complicity. He cited a death toll exceeding 67,000 Palestinians in Gaza, with the Israeli military reportedly bombing homes, hospitals, and schools. Israel's foreign ministry responded on X (formerly Twitter), accusing Mamdani of acting as a "mouthpiece for Hamas propaganda" and spreading "Hamas's fake genocide campaign."

Historical and Political Context

The October 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas and other Palestinian militant groups initiated the ongoing Gaza war. These attacks resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,195 Israelis and foreign nationals, including 815 civilians, and the taking of 251 hostages. Israel's retaliatory offensive in Gaza has since led to the deaths of over 67,000 Palestinians, nearly half of whom were women and children, and over 169,000 injured, according to Palestinian health authorities.

Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist, has been a vocal critic of Israel, previously condemning what he described as Israeli apartheid in 2023 and supporting the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement. He has also introduced a bill in the New York State Assembly to prohibit registered charities from donating to organisations involved in Israeli settlements in the West Bank or those supporting alleged war crimes in Gaza.

Stakeholders and Testimonies

The vigil provided a platform for various voices calling for peace and an end to the conflict. The presence of Brad Lander, a prominent New York City official, alongside Mamdani, underscored the growing concern among some American politicians regarding the humanitarian situation in Gaza. The 'Israelis for Peace' group, which has rallied weekly since 2023, represents a segment of Israeli society in New York that opposes the occupation and advocates for a peaceful resolution.

Mamdani's stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been a significant aspect of his political profile. He has previously stated his belief that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza and has called for the arrest of Benjamin Netanyahu if he were to travel to New York City, citing an International Criminal Court warrant.

Risks and Implications

Mamdani's strong stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, particularly his use of the term "genocide" to describe events in Gaza, has generated both support and controversy. While it resonates with a segment of the electorate, particularly progressive voters, it has also drawn condemnation from pro-Israel groups and the Israeli government.

As a leading candidate for New York City mayor, Mamdani's views on international affairs could influence public debate and potentially shape the city's approach to related policy discussions, even though mayoral powers are primarily focused on local governance. His campaign platform also includes domestic issues such as free city buses, a rent freeze, and city-owned grocery stores.

What to Watch

The upcoming New York City mayoral election on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, will be a key indicator of public sentiment. Mamdani's ability to navigate the complexities of both local and international issues while maintaining broad appeal will be crucial. The ongoing discussions surrounding a potential hostage deal and ceasefire in Gaza, with negotiations involving Israel, Hamas, the United States, and Qatar, will continue to be a significant global development.

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