New York City Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani plans to publicly refine his stance on the use of the phrase “globalize the intifada” in the coming days. The move comes after meetings with Jewish elected officials and business community leaders, who have urged him to condemn the slogan as a call to violence against Jews.
Mamdani had previously declined to criticize the phrase in multiple interviews, despite denouncing antisemitism more broadly. His shift is seen as a significant gesture by some Democrats, who believe it’s essential for him to go beyond mere distancing himself from the language.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries have referenced Mamdani’s defense of the phrase, which they see as unacceptable and potentially divisive. The phrase has been interpreted as either a call to violence against Jews or a rallying cry for Palestinian resistance.
Mamdani’s campaign declined to comment on any moves he plans to make to clarify his position. However, some Democrats welcome this step, saying it demonstrates Mamdani’s commitment to universal human rights and addressing legitimate concerns within the Jewish community.
As Mamdani consolidates support among Democratic leaders, his stance on the phrase will likely be crucial in determining whether he secures their backing for his mayoral campaign.
Source: https://www.politico.com/news/2025/07/15/mamdani-expected-to-clarify-his-position-on-globalize-the-intifada-00455572