Democratic Mayoral Candidate on Trump and Middle East Ceasefire
Zoran Mamdani, who is running for mayor in New York as a Democrat, faced questions from CNN’s Caitlan Collins on Friday regarding President Donald Trump’s role in achieving a ceasefire in the Middle East. When asked if Trump deserves credit for the agreement, Mamdani sidestepped the question, choosing instead to reflect on the human suffering caused by the conflict.
“The news of the ceasefire gives me hope, and seeing the children celebrate brings a prayer for its longevity. Peace is what we need. But I think focusing on praise should really be about how this ceasefire is implemented,” Mamdani stated. He highlighted that while the ceasefire represents a positive development, it cannot erase the tragedies of recent years caused by both Hamas and the Israeli government.
Mamdani emphasized that even with a ceasefire in place, the irreversible destruction remains. He remarked, “No agreement can repair the damage done or return those lost. We have to continue grieving and remembering the past, while also hoping for a better future. If the genocide ends, that would certainly be something worth celebrating.”
Collins further queried whether achieving lasting peace and ensuring hostages’ return would alter how people view Trump’s contributions. Mamdani acknowledged that, if the ceasefire holds, that would be significant. He noted, “The families of the hostages emphasized that it should be an all-for-all solution, reminding us of the shared nature of what needs to happen.”
Recently, Hamas indicated they are open to releasing hostages and stepping back from power under a proposed ceasefire backed by Trump, contingent on support from other Palestinian factions and regional allies. They mentioned that additional discussions are necessary to finalize terms.
The plan outlines that Hamas would release all hostages simultaneously and hand over control of Gaza to an International Stabilization Force, which would comprise contributions from Trump and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair. Experts on Palestinian affairs would aid in creating a transitional governing body.
