Zohran Mamdani says he won’t change views on Israel

New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has stated that he will not change his position on Israel, despite growing opposition from influential figures in the city’s Jewish community.

During an interview aired Friday on CBS News New York’s “The Point with Marcia Kramer,” Mamdani reaffirmed his long-held views, including his refusal to recognize Israel as a Jewish state. He emphasized that no amount of pressure or persuasion, including appeals from senior religious leaders, has altered his stance.

Mamdani’s comments come after a highly anticipated meeting with prominent New York rabbis, which was described as falling short of its goal to ease tensions.

“My inability to say what Rabbi Ammiel Hirsch would like me to say comes from a belief that every state should be of equal rights, whether we’re speaking about Israel or Saudi Arabia, or anywhere in the world,” Mamdani said.

Rabbi Ammiel Hirsch later criticized Mamdani on social media, warning that anti-Zionist rhetoric and anti-Israel policies could endanger Jewish safety in New York City. Hirsch stated that while Mamdani is free to pursue his policies as mayor, the Jewish community would strongly oppose any actions or rhetoric perceived as hostile toward Israel.

Addressing Concerns of Antisemitism

When asked whether his refusal to affirm Israel’s existence as a Jewish state could contribute to rising antisemitism or violence against Jewish New Yorkers, Mamdani rejected the premise.

He said that his conversations with Jewish leaders across all five boroughs have focused on cooperation and building productive relationships aimed at improving the city.

“We are looking to build a relationship to deliver for this city,” Mamdani said.

Education Policy and Budget Priorities

In the same interview, Mamdani discussed his plans for the New York City Department of Education, stating that he intends to appoint a schools chancellor focused on strengthening public education while reassessing the role of charter schools.

He pointed to inefficiencies in the current system, noting that while the city spends approximately $40 billion annually on education, a significant portion goes to contracts and consultants.

“There is an issue of duplication and waste, and one of my focuses is going to be how we fix procurement,” Mamdani said.

Role of His Wife in City Life

Mamdani also addressed questions about whether his wife would take on an official role in city government, similar to previous mayoral spouses.

He clarified that his wife plans to continue her career as an artist and may engage in promoting the arts, though no formal role has been decided.

In a lighter moment, Mamdani revealed that his wife would like to adopt a cat once they move into Gracie Mansion, despite his allergies. He joked that he is prepared to get allergy shots ahead of welcoming the city’s potential “First Cat.”

Full Interview Details

The complete interview with Zohran Mamdani will air on “The Point” on Sunday, December 14, at 11:30 a.m. on CBS News New York.