Trump Meets with Mamdami; Israeli Media is Concerned

New York’s mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani met Friday evening at the White House with U.S. President Donald Trump. At the end of their meeting, the two delivered statements and answered questions from reporters. Trump described the encounter as “an excellent meeting — really good and very productive,” stressing that both sides share “one common goal — we want our city (New York), which we love, to succeed greatly.”

Israeli Media Reaction

Israeli media outlets reacted sharply to the meeting, noting the tension between Mamdani’s record and the tone of cooperation at the White House. Commentators on major networks described Mamdani’s accusations against Israel as “deeply troubling” and “detached from reality,” while several analysts emphasized that Trump’s warm posture toward a mayor-elect who labeled Israel’s actions as “genocide” raised questions. One prominent Israeli columnist wrote that the meeting “sent mixed signals at a time when Israelis expect clarity from Washington,” while another observed that Trump’s invitation for Mamdani to participate in Middle East discussions was “a gesture certain to unsettle Jerusalem.” Across Israeli media, the most recurring theme was concern that the encounter “legitimized rhetoric hostile to Israel under the cover of political diplomacy.”

Antisemitism in the City and the “Arrest Netanyahu” Promise

During the meeting, Mamdani expressed harsh criticism of Israel and the United States in Trump’s presence. “I spoke about the Israeli government committing genocide. I spoke about the fact that the U.S. finances it. I shared the concerns of many New Yorkers who want their tax dollars directed toward the city’s residents — toward their ability to live with basic dignity.”

Trump invited Mamdani to participate in his upcoming meetings on advancing peace in the Middle East.
“If the mayor wants to be present for such a meeting — because I know he has strong feelings about this,” Trump said.

Addressing delays in implementing the second phase of his proposed plan to end the war in Gaza, Trump declared: “We are working for the complete disarmament of Hamas — and to be honest, of everyone.”

Trump on Mamdani (all in one place) pic.twitter.com/rqdbM1n1NA

— Rebecca Katz (@RebeccaKKatz) November 21, 2025

Mamdani was asked about the wave of antisemitic incidents across New York.
“I am very concerned for the safety of Jews,” he said. “I expect to act decisively against antisemitism in all five boroughs — and to protect New York’s Jewish residents, and every resident who turns to City Hall.”

The two were then questioned about one of Mamdani’s key campaign promises: arresting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu should he visit New York. “We didn’t discuss that,” Trump replied. “He has his own views, but who knows? Maybe he’ll change. We all change — I’ve changed a lot since I first took office, and that was quite some time ago.”

Trump added that he believes Mamdani “is going to surprise conservatives. In fact, liberals won’t be surprised — they already like him.”

Hezbollah Supporters (Archive) Photo: Shutterstock

Trump’s Warning to Hezbollah

Trump claimed that “there is actually peace in the Middle East,” but immediately added:
“I think Hezbollah is a problem, and Lebanon — a big problem. We are working with Lebanon, we are working with everyone in the Middle East. This is something else we share — we want to see peace in the Middle East. And now, for the first time in 3,000 years, we have peace in the Middle East. Now we’re refining it, and I think you’re going to see very positive things.”

Trump Expresses Support for Mamdani

Following Mamdani’s election victory — after previously warning residents that people would flee the city — Trump struck a notably different tone: “I think you are going to have, I hope, an excellent period. The more successful he is — the happier I’ll be. We will help him achieve everyone’s dream — a strong and very safe New York.” Mamdani said he “greatly appreciated” the meeting with the president.
According to him: “It was an efficient meeting focused on shared appreciation and love for New York City. I valued the time with the president and look forward to working together to ensure the ability to live here.”

Sources close to Mamdani said after the meeting that it “exceeded all expectations,” and that Trump expressed full willingness to support Mamdani’s plans for the city.

A Line of Caution From Trump

Trump also drew a clear line regarding federal–city relations going forward: “If we don’t get along, we’ll consider steps — whether that means cutting ties or reducing support in the budget. We’re not going to throw good money after bad.”

But he added: “Today we had a meeting that truly surprised me. He wants to see a city without crime. He wants to see housing built. He wants to see rent prices come down. All these things — I agree with.” During the press conference, Mamdani was asked whether he still believes Trump is a fascist.
Trump interjected: “It’s okay, you can say yes. It’s easier.” Mamdani appeared embarrassed, nodded slightly, and moved on to the next question.

Zohran Mamdani, Mayor-Elect of New York Photo: Shutterstock

A Call to Prayer and Solidarity

At a time when political decisions in Washington carry profound consequences for Israel’s security and for Jewish communities worldwide, many readers have expressed a desire to respond not only with civic engagement but with prayer. This moment invites all who care deeply about Israel to pause, reflect, and offer heartfelt prayers for the peace of Jerusalem, the safety of its people, and wisdom for leaders navigating an uncertain landscape.

As the Psalmist writes:
“Sha’alu shalom Yerushalayim — Pray for the peace of Jerusalem” (Tehillim 122:6).