Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar on Friday, 25 July 2025, sharply condemned a stabbing attack in New York City that targeted two men — one Jewish, one Asian — and directly accused New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani of fostering a climate of incitement against Jews. The attack, which took place in Manhattan, has drawn international attention and reignited debate over antisemitism in American cities.

Saar's Accusation Against Mayor Mamdani

In a post on X, Saar did not mince words. 'I am appalled by the horrific antisemitic stabbing attack in New York. Appalled but sadly not surprised. This violence did not happen in a vacuum. Months of incitement against the Jewish state from Mamdani have helped create a climate in which Jews are targeted,' he wrote. He added, 'Words have consequences,' and demanded that Mamdani 'end the incitement, confront antisemitism with resolve, and act now to protect the city's Jewish community.' Saar concluded with: 'Enough is enough.'

The Israeli Foreign Minister's remarks represent a significant diplomatic escalation, directly naming a sitting American mayor in connection with a hate crime investigation — an unusual step that underscores the charged political atmosphere surrounding the incident.

What the NYPD Has Established

New York Police Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch confirmed that two people were stabbed in separate attacks and that both victims were hospitalised but are expected to survive. The New York Police Department (NYPD) subsequently announced the arrest of Raul Morales, 51, in connection with both assaults, stating that 'no other people are being sought.'

According to police, victim and witness statements allege that Morales shouted 'Allahu Akbar' during both attacks. Detectives are evaluating whether the incidents constitute hate crimes. Investigators also noted that while Morales had no known mental health history with the department, early findings suggest mental health may have been a factor. Authorities confirmed there was no known prior connection between the suspect and either victim, or between the two victims themselves.

Mayor Mamdani Responds

Mayor Zohran Mamdani condemned the attacks ahead of Saar's statement, saying he had been briefed on the 'horrifying stabbings' and was relieved both victims were in stable condition. He credited NYPD officers for their swift response and confirmed the department was investigating the incidents as potential hate crimes. 'These hateful and despicable attacks have no place in our city,' Mamdani stated.

Mamdani's condemnation, however, did not satisfy Saar, who argued that the mayor's prior rhetoric had contributed to the environment in which the attack occurred — a charge Mamdani's office has not directly addressed as of the time of reporting.

Investigation Ongoing

The NYPD has said the investigation into the motive behind both attacks remains active, with all aspects of the case still under examination. The hate crime designation, if confirmed, would carry enhanced legal consequences for the suspect. This comes amid a broader national conversation about rising antisemitic incidents in the United States, with advocacy groups reporting a sustained increase in such cases over recent years.

How the diplomatic fallout between Israel and New York City's administration develops — and whether the hate crime designation is formally applied — will be closely watched in the days ahead.