Brad Lander faces anti-Israel hecklers at New York protest

Democratic congressional nominee Brad Lander was heckled by anti-Israel protesters during a demonstration at Madison Square Garden in New York City. The protest was directed at remarks made by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat.

Lander, a former New York City comptroller who identifies as a liberal Zionist, faced verbal confrontations from individuals demanding he leave, citing his support for Israel. The incident highlights growing ideological divisions within the Democratic Party regarding U.S. military aid and policy toward Israel during the conflict in Gaza.

Lander previously won a June primary against incumbent Dan Goldman, a race characterized by differing levels of criticism toward the Israeli government. While Lander has called for restrictions on U.S. military aid and referred to the offensive in Gaza as a genocide, he continues to defend Israel’s existence as a Jewish state.