Did Zohran Mamdani make a Nazi Salute? Massive row after speech video goes viral

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani was sworn into office at a high-octane ceremony that drew global attention. However, the event soon sparked a debate after claims surfaced online accusing him of making a 'Nazi salute' during the public function.

A video clip from the inauguration showing Mamdani’s hand gesture quickly went viral, with Republican voices drawing parallels to Nazi salute, triggering a similar controversy involving Elon Musk exactly a year ago. The footage has since led to a heated discussion over political optics.

In the widely circulated clip, Mamdani appears to make a brief arm movement while addressing the crowd, an action that many suggest was merely an emphasis gesture commonly used during speeches.

Sharing the video, a Republican social media handle, MAGA Voice, wrote, “I am sharing. Zohran Mamdani just did a Nazi salute. Rules are rules. Cancel him”.

Conservative influencer Brandon Straka, founder of a campaign encouraging Democrats to leave the party, claimed Mamdani made “the same exact gesture” at his swearing-in that critics had earlier labelled a “Nazi salute” when Musk did it.

Another user, Eric Daugherty, posted: “HOLY CRAP! Zohran Mamdani just did the EXACT SAME gesture as Elon Musk. When Elon does it, it’s a ‘Nazi salute’. When communist Zohran does it, the media is silent. The media is the enemy of the people.”

Several others echoed similar accusations across social media platforms.

Mamdani’s supporters, however, strongly rejected the claims, describing the movement as an expressive and affectionate gesture that he frequently uses while speaking publicly.

The New York City Mayor has not yet responded to the allegations.

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