Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani criticized Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s planned attendance at Friday’s 9/11 ceremony. The event will mark the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks that killed thousands across the United States. Giuliani said the ceremony should focus on victims, their families, survivors, and remembering the attacks. He explained that he lost friends on September 11 and remains close to several victims’ families. Because of those personal connections, Giuliani said Mamdani’s attendance at the ceremony offends him.
Mamdani recently signed executive orders declaring September 11 a citywide “Day of Remembrance and Service.” He also announced changes involving New York City’s emergency preparedness procedures ahead of the anniversary. Meanwhile, Giuliani questioned Mamdani’s participation while emphasizing the importance of preserving the event’s historical meaning. He said younger generations should learn the facts surrounding the attacks without political messaging or propaganda. The former mayor also stressed that “Never Forget” requires continued education about what happened that day.
The controversy also involves Mamdani’s chief counsel, Ramzi Kassem, who attended the mayor’s recent announcement. Kassem previously represented Ahmed al-Darbi, who faced terrorism charges before a U.S. military commission. Giuliani referenced that connection while explaining his concerns about Mamdani’s participation. However, Mamdani’s administration has emphasized remembrance and preparedness ahead of the anniversary. The upcoming 9/11 Ceremony will bring officials, families, survivors, and others together at Ground Zero. Despite the disagreement, Mamdani plans to attend the annual memorial marking 25 years since the attacks.
