Israel’s foreign ministry has sharply criticized New York City’s new mayor, Zohran Mamdani, accusing him of exacerbating antisemitism after he rescinded a directive implemented by the previous mayor, Eric Adams. The foreign ministry’s statement declared, “On his very first day as @NYCMayor, Mamdani shows his true face: he scraps the IHRA definition of antisemitism and lifts restrictions on boycotting Israel. This isn’t leadership. It’s antisemitic gasoline on an open fire.”
Mamdani’s decision to revoke the adoption of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism, which the Adams administration had claimed included “demonizing Israel” and applying double standards to it, has sparked intense debate. While acknowledging concerns from Jewish organizations, Mamdani asserted that protecting Jewish New Yorkers would be a priority for his administration. He emphasized a commitment to combatting hate and division throughout the city, promising funding for hate crime prevention and a focus on inclusivity.
The New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (Cair-NY) welcomed Mamdani’s decision, describing the IHRA definition as “controversial and overly broad.” They argued that it often serves to suppress legitimate criticism of Israel, calling Adams’s previous order an “unconstitutional, Israel First attack on free speech.”
Mamdani’s revocation of Adams’s executive orders comes in the wake of significant shifts in city leadership, as he rescinded orders made by Adams following his indictment on federal charges in 2024—charges that were eventually dropped. One of the now-voided orders restricted city officials from engaging with the boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) movement, which Mamdani supports. Another order required the New York police commissioner to scrutinize protests near places of worship, a response to potential claims of antisemitism during demonstrations promoting immigration to Israel.
Mamdani, who identifies as a democratic socialist and has faced scrutiny for his past remarks on Israel, reassured Jewish constituents of his commitment to them during his inaugural address, referencing his own upbringing in a multicultural New York City. His swearing-in ceremony was notable for including Jewish leaders and Senator Bernie Sanders, a Jewish New Yorker, who participated in the event.
The CEO of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, William Daroff, expressed concern over Mamdani’s reversal of the Adams order, characterizing it as a troubling sign for the city’s approach to antisemitism amidst rising incidents.
Mamdani has pledged to maintain an office dedicated to combating antisemitism, emphasizing that this issue will be treated with seriousness throughout his administration. With a focus on unity and inclusivity, Mamdani appears eager to chart a new course for New York City, balancing the challenges of diverse community sentiments.