Mamdani faces protests after October 7 commemoration

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani faced protests at a Union Square vigil marking the third anniversary of Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack, after a statement commemorating the victims also condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza. The demonstrations included boos and chants calling him a traitor, according to accounts of the event. Mamdani’s October 7 statement mourned those killed and abducted in the Hamas attack, then described Israel’s conduct in Gaza as genocide. The wording drew criticism from Jewish and pro-Israel figures, some of whom said it was offensive on the anniversary. Mamdani has denied that his criticism of Israel is antisemitic. The vigil, held in Manhattan’s Union Square on Wednesday, October 7, was organized by Israelis For Peace, a group that describes itself as Israeli anti-occupation activists. Pro-Palestinian protesters interrupted the gathering as speakers sought to commemorate victims. Mamdani did not speak at the vigil, and protesters booed and shouted at him. The reports describe the confrontation but do not establish whether it reflects a broader change in support for the mayor. The protests came amid competing reactions to Mamdani’s statement.