Bill Maher Criticizes Zohran Mamdani’s Response to Terror Attack Anniversary

Comedian Bill Maher targeted New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani for his remarks marking the third anniversary of the October 7 terrorist attack in Israel. Maher used his show, ‘Real Time,’ to comment on Mamdani’s statement, which acknowledged the pain experienced by many New Yorkers and expressed grief for those affected.

Mamdani condemned the ongoing actions of Israel, stating, “The suffering did not begin nor end that day. It instead continued through the Israeli government’s devastating, ongoing genocide in Gaza, in which it has killed more than 74,000 Palestinians—including more than 21,000 children.” He highlighted that since the cessation of hostilities, over 1,400 Palestinians have been killed, expressing the grief felt by many New Yorkers and criticizing the U.S. government’s continued support.

“To honor the dead, we must fight for a world in which every person can live with freedom, safety, and dignity,” Mamdani declared.

Maher responded with disdain, mocking Mamdani for his statement and past career as a rapper. Maher joked, “You know, he used to be a rapper. His rap name was ‘Tone Deaf.’” This quip followed Maher’s suggestion that Mamdani’s statement implicitly blamed Israel for the events.

Recently, Mamdani faced further criticism after dining at a Palestinian restaurant, Ayat Hinds Hall, affiliated with another location scrutinized for supposedly antisemitic menu language. The menu, bearing the phrase “Down with the occupation” in multiple languages, led to controversy prior to the attack on Israel.

Political strategist Kaivan Shroff suggested Maher’s criticism might fortify Mamdani’s political position. Shroff argued that, despite appearing tone-deaf, Mamdani’s statement aimed to resonate with his base by addressing key issues like the protection of Benjamin Netanyahu by NYPD, keeping commissioner Tisch, and not disbanding the Strategic Response Group as promised.

Shroff noted, “For some Mamdani fans the fact that he has enraged folks like Maher is a sign that he is still the same candidate they voted for.” Maher’s vocal response, in other words, could reinforce Mamdani’s standing among supporters who value his alignment with their views on the Israel-Hamas conflict.