A resurfaced video has ignited controversy in New York City politics after mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani was heard accusing the NYPD of being influenced by Israel’s military. In the clip, originally recorded at a 2021 Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) event, Mamdani claimed, “We have to make clear that when the boot of the NYPD is on your neck, it’s been laced by the IDF.”

The remarks, which recently reemerged online, are drawing sharp criticism from Jewish leaders, pro-Israel advocates, and law enforcement supporters who call the statement “deeply offensive and dangerously misleading.” Critics argue that Mamdani’s rhetoric crosses a line from legitimate criticism of policing to open hostility toward Israel and its supporters.

Mamdani, who represents a progressive faction within New York’s political left, has long aligned himself with the DSA’s anti-Israel positions. His resurfaced comments are being interpreted as part of a broader effort among far-left activists to delegitimize Israel by linking it to domestic policing issues in the United States—a narrative that experts say distorts facts and fuels antisemitic sentiment.

In reality, U.S.–Israel police exchanges primarily focus on counterterrorism cooperation and crisis management, not domestic policing tactics. Supporters of the programs note that Israeli expertise in emergency response and threat prevention has saved countless lives worldwide, including in American cities.

Community leaders across New York have condemned Mamdani’s statement as “reckless and divisive,” urging voters to reject rhetoric that targets America’s closest Middle Eastern ally. “Blaming Israel for local policing is not only absurd—it’s dangerous,” said one NYPD veteran. “It’s an attempt to pit communities against each other and rewrite reality for political gain.”

As the video continues to circulate, Mamdani’s campaign has not issued a formal apology or clarification. The controversy is now expected to shape public perception of his mayoral run, especially among New York’s large Jewish and pro-law enforcement constituencies who see his remarks as incompatible with responsible leadership.