Zohran Mamdani Invites Brown Student Wrongly Accused to NYC

UPDATE: New York City’s incoming Mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has extended an invitation to Mustapha Kharbouch, a Brown University student wrongfully identified as a suspect in a recent shooting. Mamdani stated he “would love to have him back” in NYC, where Kharbouch recently completed an internship.

The situation escalated rapidly over the past week as social media users falsely connected Kharbouch, a third-year student studying international affairs and anthropology, to the shooting. This misinformation was fueled by a photo of him wearing a Keffiyeh, leading to a wave of death threats and intense Islamophobia directed at him.

In a post on X late Tuesday, Mamdani condemned the online conspiracy theories that wrongfully implicated Kharbouch. “Last week, online conspiracy theorists wrongfully blamed Mustapha…because of a photo of him wearing a Keffiyeh,” he said. “In the days since, Kharbouch has faced death threats and unimaginable Islamophobia and anti-Palestinian racism.”

Mamdani expressed his support for Kharbouch, revealing their conversation about the student’s aspirations. “Today, I had the privilege of speaking with Mustapha…He is considering a PhD and thinks about moving back to New York City one day if he can afford it,” Mamdani shared.

The Mayor-elect emphasized the importance of cherishing and protecting all New Yorkers, vowing to combat Islamophobia and anti-Palestinian racism. “I told Mustapha that we would love to have him back in New York City, where — as Mayor — I will make it my job to cherish, protect, and celebrate all New Yorkers,” he stated.

This unfolding story highlights the severe repercussions of online misinformation and the urgent need for community support. As Kharbouch weighs his future options, the city stands ready to welcome him back, reinforcing a commitment to inclusivity and understanding.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.