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Zohran Mamdani's NYC ‘Gaza 5K’ participation draws massive backlash, ‘Do not let the pro-Hamas jihadis win’

Zohran Mamdani, NYC mayoral candidate, faces backlash for participating in the Gaza 5K charity run supporting UNRWA.

Published on: Oct 15, 2025, 16:56:22 IST
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New York City mayoral front-runner Zohran Mamdani is receiving criticism for taking part in the “Gaza 5K” over the weekend, a charity run promoting the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), which has been extensively blasted for connections to Hamas.

Zohran Mamdani, leading in NYC's mayoral race, faces criticism for his participation in the Gaza 5K benefiting UNRWA. (X@Zohran Mamdani)
Zohran Mamdani, leading in NYC's mayoral race, faces criticism for his participation in the Gaza 5K benefiting UNRWA. (X@Zohran Mamdani)

Taking to social media, Mamdani stated that he was honored to contribute to the cause and shared a picture of himself participating in the fundraising.

“This morning I ran the NYC Gaza 5K in Prospect Park for the third time, alongside the Harlem Run Club, to raise money for @unrwausa, which delivers critical humanitarian aid and services to Palestinians in Gaza. I hope you'll join me in donating.”

However, online users accused him of funding an organization connected to the deadly Hamas terrorist assaults on Israel on October 7, 2023.

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Republicans tear into Mamdani

Republican Representative Elise Stefanik of the North Country, who has declared her intention to run for governor, spearheaded the attack on Mamdani and criticized Governor Kathy Hochul for her backing of the Democratic mayoral candidate.

Taking to X, Stefanik wrote: “On the eve of all the living hostages held by Hamas terrorists finally returning home, @KathyHochul endorsed the Antisemitic Communist NYC Mayor candidate is raising funds for an organization that participated in the October 7th terrorist attacks and brutally held hostages captive.”

“Do not let the pro-Hamas jihadis win and destroy NY! FIRE HOCHUL.”

Commenting top Stefanik's post, one X user commented, “Mamdani is funded by Jews.”

“Mamdani and Hochul are birds of a feather. Neither should be elected in this country. They exemplify what has happened when our society has become divided, and political expediency has replaced common sense in how to govern our great country,” another said.

“We absolutely must do everything possible to keep Anti Semites out of office!” one more chimed in.

Zohran Mamdani speaks out after Israeli hostages release by Hamas

Mamdani has always been a vocal opponent of Israelis alleged mistreatment of the Palestinian people. His recent remarks after a brief ceasefire just stoked the flames.

“Today’s scenes of Israelis and Palestinians are profoundly moving: Israeli hostages being freed and families reunited after years of fear, uncertainty, and torture; the first days in Gaza without relentless Israeli bombardment of Palestinians as families return to rubble and loved ones freed from detention,” Mamdani wrote on X.

“There is finally a glimmer of hope that this ceasefire will hold and the long, difficult work of reconstruction can begin,” he added.

His post drew backlash, with one user saying: “Your true colors are showing. The facade is fading away about who you truly are & what you believe in.”

“The Uri @uricohenisrael Oct 14 You don’t believe in peace, you believe in terror and Jewish blood. You (plus your friends and family) proved it a million times over the past 2 years,” another commented.

Disclaimer: The story is based on a social media uses posts and their reactions. The details provided here is taken directly from the original poster and does not represent the views of HT.com.

  • Shweta Kukreti
    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    Shweta Kukreti

    Shweta Kukreti has over 8 years of experience in covering Indian and world politics. She joined the Hindustan Times in 2024 and is primarily assigned to the US desk. She currently works as Deputy Chief Content Producer and reports on a wide range of topics, including US politics, immigration issues (especially H-1B visa) and major global events. Shweta strongly emphasizes team operations, which encompasses monitoring news, delegating tasks, editing, developing comprehensive coverage strategies, and crafting engaging, and data-informed narratives. She received the Digi Star Award at the Hindustan Times within a year of joining for her broad coverage of US politics. In 2025, she earned both a promotion and a redesignation, a significant achievement recognising her contributions and the strong value she brings to the team. She has previously worked with the Indian Express, HTDS, ANI and Republic World. Seniors in all the media organisations recognised her work. Regarding education, she earned a BA (Hons.) in Political Science and a master's degree from Delhi University, and she pursued a PG Diploma in English Journalism from the Indian Institution of Mass Communication (IIMC). She also holds a diploma in Women's Empowerment and Development from IGNOU University and a French certification course from Alliance Française de Delhi. If not working, you can find her exploring the hills and engaging in adventurous activities in Rishikesh and Himachal Pradesh. She loves to play badminton, volleyball, and chess, and spend time with her friends and family. She also enjoys spiritual activities.Read More

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