New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has reiterated his strong criticism of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), defending his use of the term "monsters" to describe the pro-Israel lobbying group. Mamdani stated that AIPAC supports a "status quo for immorality" not only in Palestine but across the wider region.

His remarks come after Mamdani last week denounced AIPAC's significant spending, which he characterized as "millions in dark money," in New York's primary election races. This stance has drawn criticism from some Jewish leaders who have accused him of antisemitism.

Speaking at City Hall on Monday, Mamdani elaborated on his position. He highlighted the ongoing conflict, noting that over 1,000 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed by Israeli forces since a ceasefire was agreed upon last October. "When it comes to the way in which they defend the status quo, oftentimes they defend it through direct contributions, as we are seeing right now in New York 13," said Mamdani, who is New York City's first Muslim mayor.

The mayor's earlier comments, made at a rally in Vermont, criticized AIPAC for spending heavily to support pro-Israel candidates in congressional primaries. He asserted that the group uses its funds to "preserve their power" and to "turn us against one another instead of our leaders turning towards the moral change we all know to be necessary."

New Jersey Representative Josh Gottheimer responded to Mamdani's criticism by accusing him of "laundering antisemitism." Gottheimer argued that substituting "AIPAC" with "Jews" would reveal an antisemitic conspiracy theory, calling Mamdani's statements dangerous, particularly given New York City's large Jewish population.

Mamdani's critique of AIPAC occurs amidst a period of intense political contests in New York's primary elections. These elections are crucial for determining the Democratic Party's nominees for the upcoming midterm elections in November, with candidates' positions on Israel emerging as a significant point of contention.

Longtime incumbent Adriano Espaillat, who has served since 2017, has reportedly received praise from AIPAC for his stance on Israel. The political landscape in these races highlights the national debate surrounding US policy toward Israel and the influence of lobbying groups.

The controversy underscores the complex dynamics between domestic politics, foreign policy, and advocacy in the United States, particularly concerning the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Mamdani's vocal opposition places him at the center of a debate involving political strategy, ethical considerations, and accusations of prejudice.