NYC Jewish Leaders Accuse Mayor Mamdani of "Hollow" Tisha B'Av Greeting Days after Calling Netanyahu a 'War Criminal'

The greeting, which appeared routine, quickly drew thousands of angry responses from Jewish activists and institutional leaders who characterized it as hollow given his history of pro-Palestinian statements and recent controversial comments about Netanyahu.

Community Leaders Call Out 'Hypocrisy'

Moses Sheffren, president of the United Jewish Teachers, issued a formal statement questioning Adams' sincerity. "You cannot wish us a quiet Tisha B'Av after last night's theater," Sheffren wrote. "You continue to use false narratives and lies against Israel and the Jewish people and continue to be an obstacle to our security."

Sheffren's statement came days after Mamdani faced criticism for previous remarks that Netanyahu should be arrested as a "war criminal" - comments he later walked back, acknowledging the city has no legal jurisdiction to enforce such actions.

April Silverman, an activist in the community, posted bluntly: "Get out of here! You don't care about Jews fasting and mourning. You think it was nice to heckle us during the Nine Days with your fake calls to stop Netanyahu when you have no authority to do that?!"

Other respondents posted images of the Temple alongside calls for its rebuilding, and argued that Mamdani's statements have only increased antisemitism and tensions on New York streets.

The Mayor's office did not immediately respond to requests for comment.