New York City, home to the largest Jewish population outside of Israel, has faced significant backlash after Mayor Zohran Mamdani decided not to attend this year’s Israel Day parade.
The annual event along Fifth Avenue typically draws tens of thousands of revelers, including community groups and students. During a security briefing, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed her role as honorary grand marshal for the parade, stating: “It is the mayor’s decision not to march, and it is my decision to march proudly.”
Mamdani had previously declared on the campaign trail that he would not participate in the parade due to his views on the Israeli government. He also emphasized his commitment to ensuring public safety as mayor.
Rabbi Joseph Potasnik, executive director of the New York Board of Rabbis, countered that the event is “a Jewish people parade,” noting: “He can march in the parade and have a different point of view [and] show respect for the Jewish people.”
Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman criticized Mamdani as “anti-Israel” and accused him of being an anti-Semite, claiming that the mayor has watered down the definition of antisemitism. Blakeman also asserted that Mamdani avoids speaking out on countries that suppress human rights, such as Iran, Russia, and China.
Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations Danny Danon praised the turnout at the parade, stating: “While the mayor chose to boycott the event and turn his back on tens of thousands of Jews and supporters of Israel, the public came in droves to prove that the connection to Israel is stronger than any political campaign.”
The parade also featured Governor Hochul and Senator Schumer, along with State Attorney General Leticia James.
