BROOKLYN (VINnews) – Former Assemblyman Dov Hikind released a video criticizing Jewish leaders who met with New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

Hikind said that during the meeting, one attendee — whom he did not identify — urged Mamdani to invite a former hostage to an event to help balance what he described as the candidate’s “far-left extremism.” Hikind said Mamdani “smiled with his familiar smirk” but did not respond.

Hikind also criticized the tone of the meeting, saying there was “a lot of hugging, a lot of handshakes” and photo-taking. He described the interaction as “pathetic,” accusing the participants of failing to confront serious issues.

JEWISH BETRAYAL IN NYC

Event- Jewish leaders meet with with @NYCMayor

Taking pictures ✅
Hugs✅
Empty words✅

Mayor asked to host a hostage kidnapped by Hamas – SILENCE pic.twitter.com/MBAp3dhoXV

— Dov Hikind (@HikindDov) March 17, 2026