New York, 24 July (H.S.): A political controversy has intensified between Israel and New York City Mayor Zoran Mamdani following a stabbing incident in Manhattan’s Upper West Side on Thursday. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar described the attack as a “horrific anti-Semitic assault” and alleged that statements made by the mayor had contributed to an environment in which Jewish people were being targeted.

According to Russia Today (RT), New York Police Department (NYPD) officials said that a Jewish man and an Asian man were injured in the attack. Both victims were taken to a hospital and are reported to be in stable condition.

The NYPD has arrested 51-year-old Raul Morales in connection with the stabbing. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said that, according to victims and eyewitnesses, the attacker allegedly shouted “Allahu Akbar” during both incidents.

Police are investigating the case to determine whether the attack falls under the category of a hate crime. Officials also said that the suspect’s mental health condition is being examined as part of the investigation.

New York Mayor Zoran Mamdani also condemned the incident, saying witnesses and victims reported that the attacker was heard shouting “Allahu Akbar.” He said, “There is no place in our city for such hateful and horrific attacks.”

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar said in a social media post that the violence was not an isolated incident but the result of what he described as years of inflammatory rhetoric against Israel. He urged Mayor Mamdani to take strong action against anti-Semitism and ensure the safety of New York’s Jewish community.

Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist leader, has previously been a vocal critic of Israel’s policies in Gaza. He has accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza and has criticised the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). Some Jewish organisations have accused him of making anti-Semitic remarks over these comments, a charge Mamdani has rejected.

Mamdani has maintained that he opposes all forms of anti-Semitism and remains committed to protecting New York’s Jewish community.

Meanwhile, the NYPD is conducting a detailed investigation into the attack and is working to determine the actual motive behind the incident.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar