Accusations of Anti-Semitism Against NYC Mayor Mamdani

Israel’s Foreign Ministry has labeled New York City Mayor Zoran Mamdani as anti-Semitic following his actions on his first day in office. Mamdani revoked two executive orders instituted by former Mayor Eric Adams, which had barred city officials from boycotting Israel and classified certain criticisms of the country as anti-Semitic.

The New York Times reported that the Israeli Foreign Ministry criticized Mamdani’s moves, stating, “Naming Israel as a target of sanctions is not a way to make Jewish New Yorkers feel accepted and safe, and it undermines language to that effect.” They further commented that Mamdani’s actions reflect a troubling stance, saying it’s akin to adding “anti-Semitic gasoline” to an already volatile situation.

The Times referred to the Foreign Ministry’s statement as an “extraordinary condemnation.” Additionally, Israel’s Consul General in New York, Ofir Aknis, mentioned that Mamdani’s actions pose a “threat to the safety” of the local Jewish community, potentially resulting in an uptick in violent anti-Semitic incidents.

Reports indicate that New York City boasts the largest Jewish population outside of Israel, making these accusations particularly salient.

Mamdani has openly criticized Israel’s treatment of Palestinians and has faced prior condemnation from the Israeli government. Just last year, one publication accused him of normalizing anti-Semitism. The two revoked executive orders were part of over a dozen actions repealed or altered by Mamdani at the start of his term. He is expected to address concerns regarding Israel at a press conference the following day.

On the following Friday, a coalition of prominent Jewish organizations—including the Anti-Defamation League and the American Jewish Committee—voiced their opposition to Mamdani’s revocation of the presidential order, labeling it a serious concern for the Jewish community. They specifically denounced the lifting of Adams’ ban on boycotting Israel, noting that it had been signed just the previous month.

The joint statement emphasized, “This is not a way to make Jewish New Yorkers feel included and safe.” Mamdani also rescinded the definition of anti-Semitism outlined by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance, which provides various examples of prejudice, seven of which are related to criticisms of Israel.

Mamdani’s views on Israel continue to be contentious. He has openly described Israel as an apartheid state and has accused it of committing genocide in Gaza. His support for the boycott, divestment, and sanctions movement against Israel has drawn even more scrutiny.

It’s worth noting that Mamdani’s path to office hasn’t been entirely smooth. Recently, an appointee faced backlash and had to resign after previous anti-Semitic social media posts were revealed.

Criticism of Mamdani’s decisions has come from various officials. Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman stated that Mamdani’s first act as mayor was to undermine protections for Jewish residents, asserting that this sends a harmful message. Rep. Mike Lawler remarked on social media that Mamdani represents a troubling direction for the Democratic Party.

Moreover, Brooklyn Republican City Councilwoman Inna Vernikov urged New York’s Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul to react decisively against Mamdani, insisting the Jewish community is closely observing the situation.