‘An unwelcome guest’: Some 9/11 victims’ families want Mamdani barred from tribute

Hundreds of 9/11 victims' families are petitioning to bar New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani from the annual commemoration ceremony. The petition, signed by over 1,100 family members, cites Mamdani's "Perceived reluctance to clearly and unequivocally condemn phrases such as ‘globalize the intifada,'" his support for individuals accused of minimizing the attacks, and his father's book which argued suicide bombers should be "understood as a feature of modern political violence."

Giovanni Galante, whose wife was killed in the attacks, stated, "His presence would be deeply hurtful and inappropriate — like an unwelcome guest at a deeply personal ceremony."

The mayor's office confirmed Mamdani plans to attend, despite organizers noting he is invited but will not speak.