The Democratic Socialists of America — the group supporting NYC mayoral contender Zohran Mamdani — issued a statement on Monday denouncing the “conditional” cease-fire agreement between Israel and Hamas, advocating for ongoing resistance against the state of Israel.
In a declaration titled “Until Palestinian Liberation,” the DSA spoke out just days following the agreement reached between Israel and Hamas to suspend hostilities and start the exchange of hostages and prisoners, facilitated by American and Arab negotiators.
The organization characterized the truce as one that “will not cease Israel’s assault on the Palestinian populace or the ongoing occupation of Palestinian territories,” labeling it a “conditional cease-fire” that “cannot absolve the ruling elite that… continues to support and supply genocide while instigating regional conflict.”
While recognizing that the agreement may provide some degree of humanitarian relief for Palestinians and a cessation of Israeli military operations, the DSA expressed “no illusions” about Israel’s commitment to any agreement that ensures Palestinian life or self-governance.
The group further claimed that “previous cease-fires have merely slowed the violence,” asserting that Israel continues military operations without consequence.
With a membership of 85,000, the socialist organization stated that it backs “the end of Israel’s occupation and colonization of all Arab territories,” as well as “equality” and “the right for all refugees to return to their homes and property.”
It vowed to “disrupt the U.S. imperial war machine that supports Israel” and increase efforts for boycotting and divesting from the Jewish state.
The DSA’s statement coincides with the commencement of the cease-fire plan mediated by President Trump, which involved the release of 20 live Israeli hostages and the return of deceased hostages’ remains in exchange for around 2,000 Palestinian detainees.
Additionally, the arrangement allows for humanitarian aid to flow into Gaza and initiates discussions regarding reconstruction and governance under the supervision of international bodies.
Mamdani also recently called for an end to “occupation and apartheid” in a delayed statement on Monday as the live Israeli hostages were returned after two years in captivity by Hamas. “Today’s scenes of both Israelis and Palestinians are deeply touching: the release of Israeli hostages and their families reuniting after enduring years of anxiety, uncertainty, and torment, alongside the first days in Gaza free from relentless Israeli assaults as families survey the ruins and their loved ones freed from detainment,” he remarked.
The mayoral candidate’s campaign is closely aligned with the DSA.
The group endorsed Mamdani prior to his official campaign announcement, with financial records indicating over $33,000 paid to the New York City DSA for text messaging and fundraising support.
During a recent chapter meeting, local leaders reiterated that “our endorsed candidates are expected to adhere to the will of the membership,” highlighting that “many individuals on Zohran’s staff are members and leaders within the DSA.”
The DSA’s national governing body has garnered attention for its internal regulations regarding Israel.
At its convention in August, the organization passed a resolution suggesting that members opposing the boycott, divestment, and sanctions initiative or collaborating with pro-Israel entities could face expulsion.
This measure reaffirmed the principles established by the 1977 Palestinian National Council known as “al-Thawabit,” which advocate for “resistance by any means necessary.”
Mamdani previously stated that “my platform does not align entirely with that of the national DSA” but has refrained from commenting directly on its stances regarding the Middle East.
Over the weekend, the Queens lawmaker participated in the “New York City Gaza 5K,” a fundraising initiative for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA).
The agency has faced allegations from Israeli officials regarding employing individuals involved in the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks.
Mamdani shared images of himself participating in the event, asserting that UNRWA is vital for providing “essential humanitarian aid and services to Palestinians in Gaza.”
U.S. Representative Elise Stefanik (R-NY) criticized Mamdani on social media, accusing him of “raising funds for an organization linked to the October 7 terror attacks and the appalling captivity of hostages.”
The DSA concluded its statement on Monday by asserting that “stability in the region hinges on Israel and its allies being held accountable for their protracted list of war crimes and imperial aggression.”
The statement wrapped up with a commitment: “Until justice is achieved for all Palestinians, the struggle for liberation persists.”
Requests for comment from Mamdani remain unanswered.
