A Hasidic rabbi who initially urged New Yorkers to respect Mayor Zohran Mamdani upon his inauguration has reversed his position, calling for the mayor's resignation following remarks in which Mamdani described Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a "war criminal."
Rabbi David Katz, executive director of the Israel Heritage Foundation, released a video message Wednesday expressing that he was "very shocked" By Mamdani's statements made the previous night. Katz said the mayor owes an apology to all New Yorkers and stated: "Until he apologizes, he should resign." He argued that Mamdani's comments fell short of the standards expected of his office and did not represent the city's residents.
The shift marks a significant departure from Katz's earlier stance. When Mamdani took office on January 1, Katz publicly congratulated him and encouraged New Yorkers to respect the new mayor despite political differences. At that time, Katz said: "He's become the mayor of New York, whether we like it or not. We've got to respect him as mayor." He stated that political disagreements should not prevent recognition of an elected leader.
The Israel Heritage Foundation similarly issued a congratulatory statement, extending its "deepest respect and honor" To Mamdani and expressing hope that his leadership would make New York "safe and proud" While bringing "joy and prosperity to all New Yorkers."
In his January remarks, Katz indicated willingness to judge Mamdani by his actions, noting he had previously praised leaders from both parties when they did "the right thing." He also said he would not hesitate to criticize Mamdani if he acted "not to the liking of humanity."
On Wednesday, Katz said Mamdani's comments about Netanyahu prompted him to withdraw his support, characterizing the mayor's remarks as crossing a line that warranted both an apology and, absent such an apology, his resignation.
City Hall did not immediately respond to Katz's statement.