Exclusive: Israeli President Herzog blasts Mamdani, praises Trump, sounds alarm on Iran
JERUSALEM, Israel – In a highly anticipated interview with Fox News Digital, Israeli President Isaac Herzog delivered a scathing critique of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s rhetoric and actions, warning that his words pose an existential threat to the Jewish state.
Herzog, who has long been critical of Mamdani’s inflammatory statements, expressed deep concern over the mayor’s recent comments on social media. On July 21, Mamdani posted a video calling Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu “a war criminal” and “the architect of a horrific genocide against the Palestinian people.”
“Mamdani does not respect my nation’s right for self-determination… the Jewish people’s inherent right to have a nation of their own,” Herzog said. “And he’s basically spreading blasphemy, hate, antisemitic rhetoric. He should understand that he’s risking his own citizens, he’s risking their safety, well-being and life.”
Herzog also criticized Mamdani for his handling of the recent conflict in Gaza, stating that the mayor’s words have emboldened Hamas to continue its rocket attacks on Israeli cities.
“Mamdani has shown a clear disregard for the human cost of violence,” Herzog said. “He should be ashamed of himself and take responsibility for his actions.”
On Iran, Herzog warned that the regime poses an existential threat to global stability, citing decades-long efforts by Tehran to destabilize the region through terrorism and missile attacks.
“The Islamic Republic has been a major obstacle to peace in the Middle East,” Herzog said. “Their nuclear ambitions, domestic repression, and support for regional terror proxies are all evidence of their desire to destroy Israel and create chaos.”
Herzog also praised President Donald Trump’s efforts to secure the release of 255 hostages held by Hamas following the Oct. 7 massacre.
“Trump put his foot down and pushed and negotiated brilliantly to bring them home,” Herzog said, crediting him with “huge respect.” “I believe that there is something biblical and prophetic in the way our nations work together.”
Herzog’s comments have sparked controversy among some American politicians who question the relationship between Israel and the United States. However, he emphasized that his criticism of Mamdani does not reflect a decline in support for Israel.
“We both drink from this set of values which was commanded to all of us by these historic spiritual books given to us by the Almighty,” Herzog said. “We’re a nation seeking peace, we’re a nation seeking innovation, and we are [a] nation trying to do good.”
Herzog also addressed concerns about the growing criticism of Israel among younger Americans, stating that he believes the U.S.-Israel relationship transcends shifting attitudes.
“I believe that there is something biblical and prophetic in the way our nations work together,” Herzog said. “And I truly believe that Israel should be a bipartisan issue of friendship and support.”
Herzog concluded his interview by emphasizing the importance of peace between Israelis and Palestinians, as well as the need for Americans to understand the security needs of both countries.
“We’re a nation seeking peace, we’re a nation seeking innovation, and we are [a] nation trying to do good,” Herzog said. “And I hope and pray that we will have peace with our neighbors in the entire region, with our Palestinian neighbors as well.”
Source: Fox News Latest
Based on reporting from Fox News Latest.
