SNL Slammed for Explosive Antisemitic Sketch Amid NYC Mayoral Chaos

Critics, including X user Persian Jewess blasted the portrayal as a "disgusting display" of antisemitism, arguing it mocked Jewish concerns about Mamdani's alleged pro-jihadist stance by reducing them to a caricatured, neurotic Jewish woman.

Online reactions ranged from calls of "Goebbels-inspired propaganda" to accusations of "gaslighting Jewish New Yorkers," with some demanding accountability from NBC.

Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist and current New York State Assemblymember representing Queens, has been a polarizing figure in the mayoral race. Opponents have accused him of antisemitism and sympathy toward jihadist groups, citing his vocal criticism of Israel, participation in a Gaza 5K fundraiser for UNRWA, and statements following the October 7 attacks. Mamdani has firmly rejected these claims, stating in interviews that he supports Israel's right to exist and condemns antisemitism.

Adding fuel to the fire, @persianjewess shared in her post that Mamdani's wife, Rama Duwaji, a Syrian-American illustrator and pro-Palestinian activist, shared a tribute to a Hamas terrorist on her Instagram Stories on the same day as the SNL episode.

The individual in question was Saleh Al Jafarawi, known online as "Mr. Fafo," a Gazan social media influencer and journalist who documented life amid the Israel-Hamas war through videos. Al Jafarawi was reportedly killed in Gaza during internal clashes with groups opposing Hamas.

Al Jafarawi was clearly a Hamas propagandist due to content celebrating rocket launches toward Israel and advancing pro-Palestinian narratives. He was also hated by many Gazans because he collected money for Gazans and to build a hospital and then he allegedly stole the money.

Duwaji's post, which included hearts and a eulogy mourning his death, has been interpreted by some as endorsement of Hamas-linked figures.

Neither SNL nor Mamdani's campaign immediately responded to requests for comment.