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FIRST ON FOX: An interview with New York City socialist mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani has resurfaced, showcasing his support for BDS and sanctions against Israel as he campaigns for mayor in a city with a significant Jewish population.
Mamdani expressed his excitement about being a member of DSA, specifically the New York City chapter, during an interview with SAAG Interactive in June 2021.
“Within the questionnaire submitted to be endorsed by the organization, candidates are asked about their views on BDS. I believe this has brought an issue typically considered separate into the realm of local politics, where we establish a pool of candidates. While we may not legislate on BDS daily, our unwavering commitment to justice is evident,” Mamdani stated.
Mamdani’s interviewer, Naib Mian, has a history of making anti-Israel remarks on social media, including accusing Israel of “manufacturing antisemitism” and defending the phrase “from the river to the sea.”
Democratic socialist candidate Zohran Mamdani speaking at an endorsement event on July 15, 2025, in New York City. (Spencer Platt/Getty Images)
Mamdani further discussed BDS in the interview, emphasizing the importance of integrating the struggle into daily life to demonstrate solidarity. He highlighted the need for a society-wide battle against the occupation and apartheid in Israel.
Mamdani’s previous support for BDS dates back to his college days, where he founded the Students for Justice in Palestine chapter at Bowdoin College. He advocated for an academic boycott of Israel in the school paper.
MAMDANI’S FORMER DEM COLLEAGUE RAILS AGAINST HIS SIGNATURE CAMPAIGN PROMISE: ‘NAIL IN THE COFFIN’
NYC Mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani in Washington, D.C., on July 16, 2025. (Photo by Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images)
Mamdani expressed his commitment to actively opposing any anti-BDS legislation and working to stop apartheid while holding Israel accountable. He emphasized the need for solidarity and support for Palestinian liberation.
Mamdani stated that he aims to provide opportunities for people to express solidarity and push colleagues and individuals in positions of power to do the same.
“I firmly believe that there is still untapped support for the Palestinian people’s quest for justice,” Mamdani concluded.
Fox News Digital reached out to the Mamdani campaign for comment.
Mamdani’s advocacy for BDS has faced criticism from Jewish groups in New York, and his father, Mahmood, has also voiced support for BDS while serving on the advisory board of a tribunal that has called for sanctions against Israel.
Mamdani defended his support for BDS on the campaign trail, emphasizing that it aligns with his core belief in non-violence.
