Satmar Rebbe Defends Mayor Medadani, Warns Against Provoking Host Nations

In a rare and notable intervention, the Satmar Rebbe, Rabbi Yekutiel Yehuda Teitelbaum, publicly defended Zorhan Medadani, the mayor of a New York city, against a campaign led by some ultra-Orthodox groups accusing him of antisemitism. Speaking at the annual memorial event for the "Vayoel Moshe" of Satmar in Kiryas Joel, Monroe, New York, the Rebbe condemned these attacks as dangerous provocations that threaten the safety of the Jewish community. He emphasized the traditional Jewish principle of "seeking the peace of the city" where Jews live in exile, citing the prophet Jeremiah's command to the Jewish people in Babylonian exile to pursue peace with their host nations.

The Rebbe criticized the campaign for labeling Mayor Medadani antisemitic, calling it an irresponsible act that escalates tensions between Jews and other communities. He warned that such provocations risk inflaming host nations and undermining communal security. The Rebbe also lamented that similar provocations are occurring not only in Israel but now also in the United States, urging Jews to adhere to Torah ways and accept the realities of exile without inciting conflict.

This statement has sparked significant discussion within Jewish communities in the U.S., highlighting divisions over how to engage with political figures and broader society. The Rebbe’s remarks underscore a call for restraint and caution in public discourse to maintain communal peace and security.