Holocaust Museum Chief Invites NYC Mayor Mamdani to Learn About Genocide Following Gaza Rhetoric

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has not yet publicly addressed an invitation from Jeff Miller, chair of the United States Holocaust Memorial Council, to tour the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. The invitation came after Mamdani drew criticism from the Jewish community for repeatedly characterizing Israel’s actions in Gaza as “genocide.”

Miller extended his offer Friday on social media, suggesting that Mamdani visit the museum to “truly understand” what genocide actually constitutes. The Holocaust Memorial Council chair stressed that “words matter especially from elected leaders” and warned that rhetoric demonizing Israel has real-world consequences, including potential contributions to antisemitism.

The invitation followed stabbings in New York City attributed to an attacker allegedly shouting religious phrases during the assault. One victim was Jewish, and authorities are investigating the incident as a hate crime. Miller connected Mamdani’s language about Israel to concerns about rising antisemitic violence in the city.

In recent statements, Mamdani has called Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a “war criminal” and the “architect of a horrific genocide.” He cited casualty figures exceeding 73,000 deaths and alleged targeting of hospitals and aid workers, while expressing frustration over his inability to enforce an International Criminal Court arrest warrant against Netanyahu.

Miller told reporters he would personally conduct a tour if Mamdani accepted, and suggested the mayor alternatively visit Rwanda or speak with genocide survivors. Republican Senator Rick Scott of Florida and billionaire investor Bill Ackman both amplified Miller’s invitation on social media, urging Mamdani to accept the offer.