Full Breakdown
Survivor Condemns NYC First Lady's Support for Rape Hoax Claims
3/15/2026, 4:58:12 AM
Survivor's Testimony on October 7 Atrocities
Tali Biner, a survivor of the October 7, 2023, Hamas massacre in Israel, has publicly condemned Rama Duwaji, the First Lady of New York City, for endorsing a social media post that labeled the rapes during the attack as a “mass hoax.” Biner, who was present at the Nova music festival during the assault, described the horrific events she witnessed, including the sexual violence inflicted on victims. “Real people suffered, were raped and were killed,” Biner stated, emphasizing the gravity of the situation she experienced firsthand.
Context of the Controversy
On February 2024, Duwaji liked an Instagram post that claimed the reports of mass rape were fabricated. This action drew significant backlash, particularly from Biner, who articulated her outrage at the denial of the atrocities. Biner recounted the traumatic experience of hiding for hours while hearing the screams of women being assaulted. “Hearing people claim that the sexual violence of October 7 was a ‘hoax’ is deeply painful and disturbing,” she remarked, highlighting the emotional toll such denials take on survivors.
Duwaji's Broader Social Media Activity
Duwaji's social media activity has come under scrutiny for her support of extreme positions against Israel. In addition to liking the controversial post, she has engaged with over 70 other posts that criticize Israel and its leaders. One of the posts she liked referred to then-President Joe Biden as “Butcher Biden,” and another called for an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This pattern of behavior has raised questions about her stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Criticism of Duwaji's Actions
Biner's criticism extends beyond personal outrage; she argues that such denials of sexual violence undermine the protection of women globally. “Every time sexual violence is politicized or denied, it weakens the protection women everywhere should have,” Biner stated. She believes it is crucial to honor the victims and ensure that the world does not overlook the atrocities committed on October 7.
Official Responses and Statements
A spokeswoman for Mayor Zohran Mamdani defended Duwaji, asserting that she does not have a relationship with Susan Abulhawa, the author of the essay Duwaji illustrated, which has been criticized for its anti-Israel sentiments. The spokeswoman clarified that Duwaji was commissioned to illustrate an excerpt of Abulhawa’s book and had not engaged with the controversial tweets associated with the author.
Conclusion: The Importance of Acknowledging Atrocities
Biner's mission is to serve as a voice for those who can no longer speak, emphasizing that denying or minimizing the crimes of October 7 is an attack on human dignity and justice. “This is not a matter of politics or ideology – it is a matter of human dignity, accountability, and justice,” she concluded, reinforcing the need for acknowledgment and truth in the face of such profound suffering.
