New Alliance in New York to Support Jewish and Israeli Businesses

A new coalition has been established in New York aimed at defending Jewish and Israeli businesses. This comes in response to actions by Mayor Zoran Mamdani and his anti-Zionist allies, who are allegedly seeking to broaden their influence at both Albany and City Hall.

The New York State Chamber of Commerce has teamed up with the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce to create the New York-Israel Chamber of Commerce Federation, with more organizations expected to join.

Al Kinnel, president of the NYICC Coalition, expressed concerns about the future of New York City’s free enterprise system, which has inspired many Israeli entrepreneurs to establish their businesses in the city. He stated, “Beyond the economic harm, we are deeply concerned about the correlation between these policies and increased unsafe conditions for our employees and customers.”

While Kinnel didn’t mention Mamdani directly, sources suggest that the rise of pro-Jewish and pro-Israel advocacy groups is not coincidental in light of recent developments.

Mamdani has continually criticized Israel, even accusing it of committing genocide in Gaza. After taking office, he promptly rolled back pro-Israel policies initiated by former Mayor Eric Adams, including two executive orders prohibiting city officials from boycotting Israel.

The backdrop to this development includes a notable increase in anti-Semitism in New York, fueled by violent protests against Israel. For example, there were incidents last month where employees of the Israeli-founded Bread Bakery chain pressured the company to cease its support for Israel while campaigning for unionization.

Jewish and Israeli restaurants have also faced vandalism, prompting the new chamber to establish goals aimed at reinstating protective measures against anti-Semitic business practices.

A report from the U.S.-Israel Business Alliance noted that New York hosts around 676 businesses founded by Israelis, with 20 valued at over $1 billion. Collectively, these businesses contribute significant employment opportunities and tax revenue beneficial to the city.

Guy Franklin, founder and CEO of Israel Mapped in New York, remarked that the city boasts the largest Israeli tech ecosystem outside of Israel, emphasizing the integral role these companies play in the local economy.

Support has come from various business leaders as well. Heather Mulligan, president of the New York State Business Council, highlighted the importance of inclusivity in the city’s economic landscape, stating, “Israeli-founded businesses are an equally important part of our economy, creating jobs and leading innovation.”

Mark Jaffe, president and CEO of the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and part of the alliance’s board, emphasized that New York should not compromise job security due to economic discrimination.

Jaffe also noted, “Israel is a strong friend and ally of the United States. It maintains a dynamic capitalist economy that significantly benefits New York.” He expressed pride in supporting Israeli-backed businesses through the coalition.

Galit Meylan, CEO of the Israel-American Chamber of Commerce, called for immediate collective action, citing that current behaviors have become normalized.