Zohran Mamdani Calls for Justice as Israeli Hostages Released: Highlights Need to End Palestinian Occupation

Mamdani confirmed that the conflict has resulted in over 1,100 Israeli casualties.

New York City mayoral frontrunner Zohran Mamdani has renewed his call for ending "occupation of and apartheid" against Palestinians, following the release of Israeli hostages who were held by Hamas for two years.

On social media platform X, Mamdani wrote: "Today's scenes of Israelis and Palestinians are profoundly moving: Israeli hostages being freed and families reunited after years of fear, uncertainty, and torture; the first days in Gaza without relentless Israeli bombardment of Palestinians as families return to rubble and loved ones freed from detention."

He described the recent ceasefire between Israel and Gaza as "a glimmer of hope" that could lead to reconstruction and recovery after years of devastating conflict. "There is finally a glimmer of hope that this ceasefire will hold and the long, difficult work of reconstruction can begin," Mamdani stated.

While acknowledging the relief these developments brought to New Yorkers, Mamdani emphasized that U.S. policy regarding taxpayer dollars funding civilian suffering in Gaza needs fundamental change.

He expressed strong concerns about American financial involvement, saying: "We have watched as our tax dollars have funded a genocide. The moral and human cost will be a lasting stain and requires accountability and real examination of our collective conscience and our government's policies."

Mamdani elaborated that achieving true peace involves more than just halting the conflict—it requires active effort from peace advocates to ensure lasting resolution. "The responsibility now lies with those of us who believe in peace to make sure it endures, and that it is just," he stated.

He further emphasized that while immediate priorities include delivering aid, caring for the wounded, and securing lasting agreements, the ultimate objective must be establishing a fair and safe future for all affected by the conflict.

"Once aid is delivered, the wounded are cared for, and a lasting agreement secured, we cannot look away. We must work towards a future built upon justice, one without occupation and apartheid, and for a world where every person can live with safety and dignity," Mamdani added.

Describing the conflict as a "horrific war crime," Mamdani noted it had caused the deaths of more than 1,100 Israelis and the kidnapping of approximately 250 people. He also condemned Israel's massive military retaliation.

According to News Nation Now, Mamdani accused the United States of indirectly supporting Israel's actions through military aid and political backing.

On Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump declared it "a tremendous day for the Middle East" following the signing of a declaration with regional leaders to solidify a Gaza ceasefire. This development came hours after a prisoner and hostage exchange between Israel and Hamas.

According to official figures from the health ministry, more than 67,800 Palestinians, predominantly civilians, have been killed in Gaza due to Israeli bombings.