Israeli President Isaac Herzog has issued a stern condemnation of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, accusing him of spreading ‘hateful and antisemitic rhetoric’ that endangers New Yorkers and disregards Israel’s right to self-determination. Herzog specifically cited Mamdani’s social media posts labeling Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a ‘war criminal’ and ‘architect of a horrific genocide,’ stating such language is unacceptable in a city dear to Israelis. Turning to global threats, Herzog identified Iran as a persistent strategic danger, highlighting its funding of global terror, ideological extremism that rejects other religions, and its missile program, nuclear ambitions, and support for proxy groups as direct threats to U.S. national security, recalling past joint military operations. He lauded former President Donald Trump’s ‘deep support’ for Israel, pointing to the embassy move to Jerusalem and recognition of the Golan Heights as key actions, and credited Trump with playing a pivotal role in negotiating the return of hostages. Herzog believes the U.S.-Israel relationship is rooted in shared values and should remain a bipartisan issue, attributing declining American support, particularly among the young, to well-funded disinformation campaigns on social media and inviting critics to experience Israel firsthand. He also addressed the International Criminal Court’s chief prosecutor, suggesting his arrest warrant requests against Israeli leaders were a diversion from sexual misconduct allegations, and praised efforts for a Gaza ceasefire and Hamas disarmament, asserting Hamas must no longer control Gaza. Herzog also emphasized Israel’s commitment to its Christian communities and interfaith dialogue.
Adapted from: Latest World News on Fox News
