New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has reaffirmed his criticism of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), rejecting suggestions that he was backing away from remarks made during a public rally last week.
The comments came in response to questions from reporters about concerns raised by some members of the Jewish community, including Democratic Congressman Josh Gottheimer, following Mamdani’s description of AIPAC as one of the organisations using “dark money” to influence American politics.
Focus Remains on Gaza
Mamdani said he wanted to be “very clear” about the issue at the centre of his remarks, arguing that the ongoing loss of Palestinian lives in the Gaza Strip should remain the primary focus of public discussion.
According to the mayor, the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with Palestinian casualties occurring daily, making it a matter that demands public attention and accountability.
Criticism of AIPAC’s Political Role
Mamdani stated that his criticism of AIPAC is linked to what he sees as the organisation’s support for current Israeli policies.
He argued that the lobby group has opposed efforts aimed at achieving security and stability not only for Palestinians but for the wider region as well.
The mayor described the situation as “immoral” and said it should not be allowed to continue. He further accused supporters of these policies of relying on both direct and indirect financial contributions to strengthen their political influence within the United States.
Allegations of “Dark Money” Influence
Mamdani specifically accused AIPAC of using what is commonly referred to as “dark money” by directing political funding through organisations that do not publicly disclose the identities of their donors until after elections have taken place.
According to him, such mechanisms are used to preserve and reinforce the existing political support structure surrounding Israeli policy.
Calls for Accountability
The mayor stressed the need to hold accountable those who contribute to the continuation of what he described as “death and destruction” abroad.
He argued that public figures should be willing to identify and scrutinise the individuals and organisations that enable these policies to continue.
His remarks have added to ongoing debate in the United States over political lobbying, campaign financing, and American policy towards the war in Gaza.
Interesting to see a mayor standing firm on such a divisive issue. What do you think the impact will be on local politics?