BREAKING: Incoming New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has publicly invited Mustapha Kharbouch, a Lebanese-Palestinian student at Brown University, to return to the city following a shocking case of mistaken identity. Kharbouch was wrongfully identified by social media users as a suspect in a recent shooting, leading to a barrage of online threats and backlash.
In a heartfelt statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) late Tuesday, Mamdani revealed he spoke with Kharbouch, who recently completed an internship in New York City. “I told Mustapha that we would love to have him back in New York City,” Mamdani stated, emphasizing his commitment to protecting and celebrating all residents while combating Islamophobia and anti-Palestinian racism.
Kharbouch, a third-year student studying international affairs and anthropology, found himself at the center of a social media storm when users wrongfully connected him to surveillance images of the shooter. This connection was fueled by his Palestinian heritage and a photo of him wearing a Keffiyeh, which conspiracy theorists exploited.
The emotional toll on Kharbouch has been severe, with reports of death threats and escalating Islamophobia since the incident. “Last week, online conspiracy theorists wrongfully blamed Mustapha…because of a photo of him wearing a Keffiyeh,” Mamdani wrote. “He has faced unimaginable Islamophobia and anti-Palestinian racism.”
Today, Kharbouch expressed his aspirations of pursuing a PhD while contemplating a return to New York City, contingent upon his financial situation. Mamdani’s invitation comes amid growing concerns regarding safety and inclusivity for marginalized communities, particularly in light of recent social media dynamics.
As Mamdani prepares to take office, his pledge to support and uplift all New Yorkers resonates strongly, especially for those who have faced similar injustices. “As Mayor, I will make it my job to cherish, protect, and celebrate all New Yorkers,” he affirmed.
This story is still developing, and updates will follow as more information becomes available. Stay tuned for further details on Kharbouch’s situation and Mamdani’s commitments to combating hate in New York City.
