JERUSALEM — Israeli President Isaac Herzog sharply criticized New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani for spreading what he described as hateful and antisemitic rhetoric that endangers the lives of New Yorkers. In an exclusive interview at his Jerusalem residence, Herzog said, "Mamdani does not respect my nation's right for self-determination… the Jewish people's inherent right to have a nation of their own. And he's basically spreading blasphemy, hate, antisemitic rhetoric. He should understand that he's risking his own citizens, he’s risking their safety, well-being and life."

Herzog referenced a July 21 video posted by Mamdani in which the mayor called Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu "a war criminal" and "the architect of a horrific genocide against the Palestinian people."

Despite his criticism of Mamdani, Herzog praised former U.S. President Donald Trump's strong support for Israel. He highlighted Trump's 2018 decisions to relocate the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem and recognize Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights. Herzog recalled speaking before a joint session of the U.S. Congress three years ago, marking 75 years of Israel's independence, where he received nearly 30 standing ovations.

Herzog also addressed broader issues including Gaza, peace efforts, and the dismissal of International Criminal Court Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan, who had issued arrest warrants against Netanyahu but was removed by member states over sexual misconduct allegations.

According to Israel's Central Bureau of Statistics, as of December 2025, Israel’s Christian population was approximately 184,200, representing 1.9% of the total population.

On Mamdani's impact, Herzog expressed hope that New York would endure beyond Mamdani's tenure without irreversible damage, emphasizing the city's importance to Israelis and himself personally.

Sources