New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has encountered backlash after giving a ceremonial pen from a 9/11 remembrance event to a top aide. The controversy arises because the aide, Ramzi Kassem, had previously represented Ahmed al-Darbi, a convicted al Qaeda member.
Controversial Gesture
Mamdani signed executive orders prior to the upcoming 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. These orders designated the date as a citywide day of remembrance and emphasized efforts to prevent future terrorist threats. After signing, Mamdani handed the pen to NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, instructing her to pass it to Kassem.
Kassem’s past includes representing al-Darbi, who pleaded guilty to war-crime charges linked to al Qaeda attacks on commercial ships. Al-Darbi is a brother-in-law to Khalid al-Mihdhar, one of the perpetrators of the Pentagon attack.
Social Media Reaction
The pen handoff ignited criticism on social media platforms, particularly on X. Users expressed that Kassem’s involvement detracted from the event’s purpose of honoring 9/11 victims and first responders.
“This is a slap in the face to victims ahead of the 25th anniversary of 9/11,” commented podcaster Benny Johnson.
Former New York state Senate candidate Maria Danzilo criticized Mamdani, expressing the challenge of living in the city under his leadership, especially approaching such a solemn date.
Another user described Mamdani’s action as a “deliberate gesture” that undermines the significance of 9/11.
Kassem’s Role
City Hall clarified to the New York Post that Kassem attended the ceremony since his team drafted the executive orders. Despite this explanation, his previous representation of al-Darbi draws scrutiny. Al-Darbi had been associated with plots such as the 2002 bombing of a French oil tanker.
Kassem also founded a legal clinic at CUNY offering free representation to Muslims and represented other individuals in complex legal cases.
Current Perspectives
The mayor’s office has not immediately addressed requests for comment. The event rekindles discussions on representation and the memories of 9/11 victims.
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