The Super PAC backing Zohran Mamdani’s bid for mayor of New York City has received a $1,000 donation from Muslim clergy associated with the 1993 World Trade Center bombing and other plots. Imam Siraj Wahhaj made a contribution to the Unity and Justice Fund in May, with a significant amount funneled to support Mamdani’s campaign.

Wahhaj has a history of controversial remarks, calling for an “Islamic state” in America and labeling Mary Joe White, a former U.S. attorney, as someone who, according to court documents, was involved but never charged. This twisted association raises some eyebrows, especially since Wahhaj praised certain figures involved in a notorious conspiracy as “strong preachers of Islam.” Notably, he was among many named as potential co-conspirators in a high-profile terrorism case but was ultimately not prosecuted.

Repeated attempts to get comments from the Wahaji Unification and Justice Fund, which operates the Masjid at Takwa in Brooklyn, have gone unanswered. While Wahhaj has publicly dismissed involvement in criminal conspiracies, he has also criticized U.S. intelligence agencies, calling them “real terrorists.”

In 1995, prosecutors linked Wahhaj’s name to a group of co-conspirators related to the first World Trade Center bombing, which resulted in several deaths and injuries. Eight years later, Al-Qaeda executed its deadlier plan, leading to the 9/11 attacks.

Wahhaj also testified on behalf of Omar Abdel Rahman, the cleric known as the “blind sheikh,” who was found guilty of multiple terror-related charges. In court, Wahhaj portrayed Rahman as a respected scholar, although Rahman’s direct involvement in terrorism led to public backlash after his sentencing.

Controversially, Wahhaj has openly suggested the collapse of American democracy, with statements hinting that only Islam would remain. He has raised questions about whether Sharia law should be implemented in America, suggesting a wait for the right moment to discuss it publicly.

Wahhaj has called Mamdani, a self-described Muslim and socialist, a “very good candidate” for New York mayor, even encouraging other Muslims to support him. Mamdani secured the Democratic nomination with a notable 56% of the vote, defeating more centrist candidates.

His stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has attracted supporters from the far left, although he has also faced criticism from both ends of the political spectrum for his unwillingness to denounce certain violent rhetoric. The fallout from these controversies continues to shape public perception as Mamdani’s campaign progresses.

After Wahhaj’s contribution, the Unity and Justice Fund has also backed various PACs supporting Mamdani. A recent financial report indicates that about $25,000 was allocated to these efforts, alongside other operational costs.

In looking at the broader context, Wahhaj’s history and statements stir complex debates surrounding political support, community dynamics, and security in America today.