New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani called on King Charles III to return the historic Koh-i-Noor diamond during the monarch’s state visit to the United States. The remarks came on Wednesday as the king attended a memorial event alongside Queen Camilla.
Speaking ahead of their meeting, Mamdani said he would raise the issue if given the opportunity. However, he added that his primary focus remained on honoring victims of the 9/11 attacks. Later, the two leaders were seen exchanging greetings and sharing a brief, light-hearted conversation, although it remains unclear whether the mayor mentioned the diamond directly.
Historic jewel continues to spark international debate
The Koh-i-Noor diamond, currently displayed at the Tower of London, remains one of the most contested artifacts linked to British colonial history. The 106-carat gem forms part of the Crown Jewels and is set in the crown of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother.
Historically, the diamond passed through several empires, including the Mughal Empire, the Persian Empire, and the Sikh Empire. Eventually, the Kingdom of Punjab ceded it to Queen Victoria in 1849 under a treaty with the British Empire. Since then, its ownership has remained a source of dispute.
Political reactions and ongoing claims
India has repeatedly requested the diamond’s return, though these efforts have not succeeded. Meanwhile, countries such as Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran have also laid claim to the gem.
The mayor’s comments quickly drew criticism from Reform UK. Party spokesperson Zia Yusuf described the suggestion as an insult, insisting the diamond would remain in Britain.
