Thousands Oppose New York Mayor's Participation in 9/11 Memorial Over Pro-Palestinian Views

A petition signed by approximately 45,000 victims' family members and supporters calls to bar New York City Mayor Eric Adams from participating in the 25th anniversary memorial ceremony for the September 11 attacks at Ground Zero. The petition, initiated by Giovanni Galante, who lost his wife in the attacks, cites Adams' pro-Palestinian stance and controversial statements about turning the intifada global as reasons for his unsuitability to attend the event. Actress Patricia Heaton, who witnessed the 9/11 attacks firsthand while filming in New York, publicly supported the petition on social media, urging New Yorkers to continue opposing Adams' involvement. Heaton also linked the Hamas massacre on October 7 to the 9/11 attacks, warning that calls for Israel to disarm align with those responsible for the Twin Towers' destruction.

One family member expressed shock that Adams currently serves as mayor and insisted he be prevented from attending the memorial. In response, Adams rejected the criticism and affirmed his intention to "proudly honor" the victims and stand with their families during the ceremony. The controversy highlights tensions surrounding Adams' political positions amid ongoing regional conflicts and the sensitive nature of commemorating 9/11 victims.