Zohran Mamdani, a Democratic mayoral candidate in NYC, has criticized what he describes as discriminatory media terminology regarding the Israel-Gaza conflict. He wonders why media outlets consistently label the Houthis as “Iran-backed” or Gaza medical facilities as “Hamas-run” but do not label the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) as “US-backed” or Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu as an “indicted war criminal.”
Mamdani has criticized the media for not providing consistent context to reporting, particularly as the Gaza war grows in intensity. While calling out the language gap, Mamdani also reaffirmed his opposition to civilian violence and continued his campaign to cut NYC ties with companies operating in Israeli settlements. His remarks have drawn praise and outrage, including a fierce response from US President Donald Trump.
Mamdani Calls Out Media Double Standards
Mamdani’s criticism came in a post on X on Saturday. He wrote,
“Why is it that the BBC always uses context such as ‘Iran-backed Houthis’ and ‘Hamas-run hospital’ but never ‘US-backed IDF’ or ‘indicted-war-criminal Benjamin Netanyahu’?”
Why does the BBC always include context like “Iran-backed Houthis” and “Hamas-run hospital” but never
“US-backed IDF” or “indicted-war-criminal Benjamin Netanyahu”?— Zohran Mamdani (@zohranmamdani) July 19, 2025
The post generated widespread commentary on social media, with allies reiterating his protestations about the imbalance in reporting. Mamdani believed that routine framing is important in times of war, particularly when state actors are implicated in civilian killings.
ICC Warrant Adds Legal Weight
In May 2024, the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu. The indictment charges him with war crimes in Gaza and Lebanon during recent fighting with Hamas and Hezbollah.
Mamdani, in an interview with Mehdi Hasan of Zeteo, stated that he would enforce that warrant if Netanyahu came to New York. He emphasized the necessity to enforce international law.
Condemns Violence, Demands Accountability
Mamdani has taken a firm position. He believes in Israel’s right to exist and disapproves of violence against civilians on either side. Yet he calls Israel’s actions in Gaza “genocide.” He continues to advocate that New York City cut financial ties with companies that make money off settlements in occupied Palestinian land.
On Stephen Colbert’s The Late Show, Mamdani held his ground during aggressive interrogation. He appeared with city comptroller Brad Lander, a fellow mayoral candidate and the highest-ranking Jewish official in New York. Lander has supported Mamdani, endorsing his position on Palestine as well as antisemitism.
Mamdani also promised to increase support for anti-hate crime efforts by 800%. He intends to fight growing antisemitism alongside Palestinian human rights.
Trump Calls Him a “Communist Lunatic”
Zohran Mamdani’s outspoken stands have drawn fire. US President Donald Trump recently unleashed against him on Truth Social.
“I’m not going to let this Communist Lunatic ruin New York,” Trump posted. “I’ll rescue New York City, and make it Hot and Great again, just like I did with the Good Ol’ USA!”
High Stakes in NYC Mayoral Race
Zohran Mamdani’s comments mark a growing political divide over how the US engages with Israel and the Gaza conflict. With strong language, clear positions, and a promise to enforce international norms, Mamdani is positioning himself as one of the most outspoken candidates in the New York mayoral race.
