In an exclusive interview with The Post, Israel’s new consul general, Ofir Akunis, warned that New York City is at risk of falling under “radical Muslim occupation” like many cities in Europe. He pointed out the existence of no-go zones and instances of burning American flags in front of the consulate. Akunis urged New Yorkers to wake up and prevent this from happening in the United States. He highlighted a poll where 57% of American Muslims believed Hamas’ attacks on Israel were justified.
Akunis took over as consul-general in May, replacing Asaf Zamir, who had been fired by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The consulate had been lacking a full-time leader since then. Akunis mentioned his busy schedule amidst pro-Hamas demonstrations at American universities and living out of a suitcase in a nearby hotel. He also mentioned his son serving in the Israeli Navy and the September 11th attacks in the United States, likening them to the October 7th attacks related to radical Islam.
The new consul remarked on the high levels of antisemitism in New York City, comparing it to the situation during the 1930s in Europe. Akunis expressed pride in the American leaders who supported Israel, such as Mayor Adams, Gov. Hochul, and Reps. Suozzi and Torres. However, he criticized Jewish elected officials like Sen. Schumer, who called for regime change in Israel, labeling it a mistake. Akunis agreed with the calls for reimposing a ban on masked protests, particularly those with harmful messages towards Israel and the United States.
At the same time, Akunis refrained from commenting on the presidential race but admitted to keeping a close watch on it. He acknowledged the tense relations between Israel and the United States, noting President Biden’s efforts to maintain a coalition that includes Hamas-supporting individuals and Muslim Americans in swing states like Michigan. Despite occasional differences, Akunis appreciated the overall American support for Israel. In conclusion, Akunis’s warning about radical Muslim occupation in New York City and his call for vigilance from New Yorkers demonstrate the complex interplay of global politics and local tensions.
