Mayor-Elect Mamdani Calls Swastikas On Magen David Yeshiva “Disgusting” and “Heartbreaking”
New York Governor Kathy Hochul confirmed that one of the Jewish institutions targeted in Tuesday night’s wave of vandalism was a yeshiva. “I strongly condemn this hateful display of antisemitism,” Hochul wrote on X, denouncing the attack and calling for accountability.
Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani took to social media soon after, calling the incident both “disgusting” and “heartbreaking.” He assured that, “As mayor, I will always stand steadfast with our Jewish neighbors to root the scourge of antisemitism out of our city.”
Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams likewise issued a statement condemning the act, emphasizing that “Antisemitism has no place in our schools, our government, or our city, but it’s sadly what happens when too many normalize antisemitic rhetoric.” His remarks underscored the growing concern over hate speech and its real-world consequences.
The United Jewish Appeal Federation of New York voiced deep concern following the defacement, noting that “This act is a painful reminder of the rising tide of antisemitism that continues to threaten Jewish communities across New York.” The organization confirmed it was in close contact with law enforcement to assist in the investigation.
According to data released Monday by the New York City Police Department, Jews were the targets in 62 percent of all hate crimes reported last month. Out of 47 total incidents, 29 were classified as antisemitic—an alarming reflection of the city’s escalating hate-crime trend.
The controversy surrounding Mamdani’s victory has only intensified these fears. The mayor-elect has a history of inflammatory statements regarding Israel, including harsh criticism just one day after the Hamas massacre of October 7, 2023, and a refusal to denounce the slogan “globalize the intifada.” He has also publicly accused Israel of committing war crimes and vowed to arrest Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he visits New York City.
In response to Mamdani’s record, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) announced a sweeping effort to closely monitor his administration. The ADL said it remains deeply concerned about “past associations and rhetoric” that it believes “promote antisemitic narratives and reflect hostility toward the State of Israel.”
Mamdani, however, pushed back against the criticism, insisting that he takes the issue seriously. He said, “I spoke about how my City Hall will stand steadfast with Jewish New Yorkers in fighting antisemitism across the city and making that clear in the actions that we deliver on January 1st.”
He added, “I look forward to working with Jewish leaders across this city, whether they’re elected officials, rabbis, or community leaders, to deliver on the promise of not just protecting Jewish New Yorkers, but celebrating and cherishing them in the same city.”
{Matzav.com}