A New York state politician has ignited a political firestorm after publicly referring to Hamas militants as "resistance fighters" during a televised confrontation with former Governor Andrew Cuomo.
Heated Exchange Goes Viral
Zohran Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist representing Queens in the New York State Assembly, made the controversial remarks during a tense debate on Cuomo's NewsNation show. The exchange quickly went viral, drawing condemnation from across the political spectrum.
"What I see is a group of people, Hamas, who are resistance fighters," Mamdani declared during the discussion about the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Cuomo's Forceful Rebuttal
The former governor immediately challenged Mamdani's characterisation, delivering a forceful rebuttal that highlighted Hamas's violent actions. "They are terrorists, they killed civilians," Cuomo countered, referencing the October 7 attacks that left approximately 1,200 Israelis dead.
Cuomo pressed further, questioning whether Mamdani believed Hamas should be "eliminated as an organisation." The assemblyman notably avoided giving a direct answer to this crucial question.
Political Fallout Intensifies
The comments have sparked outrage among fellow Democrats and Jewish groups, who argue that such rhetoric legitimises terrorist organisations. Mamdani, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America, has been a vocal critic of Israel's military campaign in Gaza.
This incident highlights the deepening divisions within the Democratic party regarding Middle East policy, particularly in progressive strongholds like New York City.
Background of Controversial Figure
Mamdani, who represents the Astoria neighbourhood of Queens, has previously faced criticism for his positions on Israel. His latest comments come amid heightened tensions on American university campuses and in city politics regarding the ongoing conflict.
The assemblyman's refusal to directly condemn Hamas during the exchange has raised concerns among moderate Democrats about the party's evolving stance on international terrorism and Middle East policy.
