In the wake of the upcoming New York City mayoral election, two prominent rabbis have raised significant concerns over the potential implications of socialist candidate Zohran Mamdani’s stance on Israel. Rabbi Ammiel Hirsch of Stephen Wise Free Synagogue warned that Mamdani’s views advocate for the dismantling of the Jewish state, which he describes as an unprecedented risk to the safety of the Jewish community. Hirsch emphasized the dangerous normalization of anti-Zionist rhetoric and its potential to exacerbate antisemitism, urging voters to consider these aspects before casting their ballots.
Rabbi Joshua M. Davidson of Temple Emanu-El echoed Hirsch’s concerns, stating that the ideology behind Mamdani’s positions, which rejects the existence of Israel, inevitably leads to increased antisemitism. Both rabbis have joined over 650 other rabbis in signing ‘A Rabbinic Call to Action: Defending the Jewish Future,’ a statement that underscores the importance of addressing discrimination against Jewish people. They argue that such views are not only a risk to Jewish safety but also pose a threat to the broader American community.
Mamdani’s stance on Israel has been a focal point of criticism, particularly regarding his support for sanctions against Israel and his reluctance to unequivocally condemn Hamas. These positions have been linked to a rise in antisemitism, with some critics accusing Mamdani of supporting ‘global jihad.’ Despite Mamdani’s denials of these allegations, the concerns remain, prompting calls for a more nuanced and respectful dialogue within the Jewish community and beyond.
The debate over Mamdani’s positions has generated considerable attention, with some figures suggesting that his views could lead to a substantial exodus of New York City businesses if he is elected. While Mamdani has maintained his stance, emphasizing his commitment to protecting Jewish New Yorkers, the concerns of the rabbis and community members continue to highlight the potential risks associated with his candidacy. The ongoing discussions and warnings from prominent Jewish leaders underscore the significant cultural and political implications of the mayoral race.