Swastika-emblazoned flag raised at NYU sparks widespread condemnation from officials

A provocative flag displaying Nazi swastikas alongside a Star of David was hoisted on a New York University building on Wednesday, right in the midst of graduation festivities for students.

The banner incorporated NYU's signature colors and torch symbol, integrated with the Star of David and bookended by two swastikas within horizontal stripes that closely resembled the Israeli flag. A photograph capturing the incident was shared by Washington Square News. (Photo credit: Screenshot)

NYU spokesperson and Chief Communications Officer Wiley Norvell issued a statement revealing that the administration is collaborating with the New York Police Department to track down those behind the display.

"We are shocked and deeply troubled that this hateful symbol expressing antisemitism was raised on a flagpole overlooking Washington Square Park," Norvell stated. "Campus safety responded immediately to remove it. We are one community. We protect each other. And we will not let hate and division find a foothold on our campus."

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani expressed fury over the incident, labeling it an "antisemitic act [that] was meant to spread fear among and intimidate Jewish New Yorkers."

"Our administration is committed to fighting antisemitism in all its forms and protecting the safety of Jewish New Yorkers," Mamdani posted on X on Thursday.

NYC Council Speaker Menin describes it as a 'sickening' spectacle

NYC Council Speaker Julie Menin took to social media to denounce the flag as "sickening," especially given its timing during graduation week.

"At a moment that should be joyful for students and families, Jewish students were instead confronted with one of history's most hateful symbols," Menin wrote on X. "Antisemitism cannot be normalized, and those responsible must be held accountable."

The House Committee on Education and the Workforce accused higher education of being undermined by antisemitism.

"Weak university leadership is allowing radical faculty and terror-supporting student groups to run wild," the committee posted on X. "School leaders need to step up and fight discrimination on campus - as required by law."