Context:

Mahmood Mamdani, a Columbia University professor and father of NYC mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, has been criticized for his radical anti-Israel social media posts, which have become a contentious issue in the mayoral race. His posts, which include calls for a third intifada and labeling Israel's actions as colonial occupation, have drawn backlash from Jewish communities who see them as promoting violence against Israel. Mahmood's stance aligns with an organization advocating for boycotts and sanctions against Israel, reflecting a broader narrative of colonial resistance. Zohran Mamdani, who has not condemned these views, faces scrutiny from various groups, including human rights attorney Brooke Goldstein, who argues that such perspectives are anti-American and threaten societal peace and security. The Mamdani family's views have sparked significant controversy, contributing to tensions within the Democratic Party and broader political discourse around antisemitism and colonialism.

Dive Deeper:

• Mahmood Mamdani, a professor at Columbia University, has been the subject of scrutiny for his anti-Israel social media activity, which includes support for radical activists and calls for a third intifada. His posts describe Israel's actions as colonial occupation, which has incited backlash from Jewish communities and accusations of promoting violence.

• The controversy centers around Mahmood's affiliation with an anti-Israel organization that advocates for boycotts and sanctions, reflecting his longstanding criticism of Israeli policies. His stance is that the conflict is not merely between Israel and Hamas but rather a broader resistance against settler colonialism, which he believes is exemplified by the birth of a Third Intifadah.

• Zohran Mamdani, a New York City socialist mayoral candidate and Mahmood's son, has not publicly condemned his father's views, leading to increased scrutiny and criticism from Jewish groups who view these positions as antisemitic. This has become a focal point in his mayoral campaign, influencing public perception and political debate.

• Brooke Goldstein, a human rights attorney, has criticized the Mamdani family, claiming their ideology promotes hate and anti-democratic violence while violating American values like tolerance and equality. She argues that such views threaten the peace and security of communities by fostering division and intolerance.

• The controversy highlights broader tensions within the Democratic Party and among political commentators, as the Mamdani family's views are perceived as emblematic of a shift towards more radical positions, leading to debates about the party's direction and its stance on Israel and antisemitism.