While visiting the city, New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani on Wednesday urged King Charles III to "return" the Koh-i-Noor diamond, a 105.6-carat gem mined in India and now the jewel of Britain's crown. The diamond has been in British hands since 1849, but its ownership is disputed, with several countries claiming possession.
First modification: 04/30/2026 - 15:26Last modification: 04/30/2026 - 16:12
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has called on King Charles III to "return" the precious Koh-i-Noor diamond, which the British Empire looted from the Indian subcontinent in the 19th century. The request was made during the third day of the monarch's state visit.
Before greeting Charles III and his wife Camilla at a 9/11 commemorative event, Mamdani was asked what topics he would discuss with the king if he had the opportunity.
“If I were to talk to the king, other than that, I would probably encourage him to return the Koh-i-Noor diamond,” the left-wing mayor declared, adding that his priority would be to honor the victims of the terrorist attacks.
It is not clear whether Mamdani kept his promise and brought up the controversial topic with Carlos during their meeting.
Later, the monarch was seen laughing with Mamdani and chatting briefly after shaking hands.
To display this content from X (Twitter), you must allow audience measurement and advertising cookies.
Read alsoCarlos III strengthens ties with the US between diplomatic gestures, historical nods and social agenda
What is known about the Koh-i-Noor diamond?
Housed in the Tower of London, the massive 106-carat stone is the star jewel of the British crown, adorning the crown of Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.
Ownership of the jewel has been disputed over the centuries, passing through the hands of Mughal emperors, Iranian shahs and Sikh maharajas before the Kingdom of Punjab handed it over to Queen Victoria in 1849 as part of a peace treaty.
India has repeatedly tried, without success, to recover the valuable jewel.
While there is no doubt that it was mined in India, its subsequent history is a mix of myth and reality, as several countries, including Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan, also claim ownership of the gem.
A politician from the anti-immigration Reform UK party was quick to condemn the comments, calling them an “insult to our king”.
“This beautiful diamond is currently displayed in the Tower of London (…) It will remain there,” declared Zia Yusuf, the party's internal affairs spokesperson.
Read alsoCarlos III appeals for unity in his speech before the US Congress, amid tensions over Iran
This article was adapted from its original English version
With AFP
Related keywords
The content you requested does not exist or is no longer available.
