Mamdani was right to stay away from the Israel Day Parade

JVL Introduction

Each year there is an Israel Day Parade in New York City and the big news is that Mamdani, the City’s first Muslim mayor kept his word given while he was campaigning and did  not take part; the first Mayor not to participate. The fact that Mamdani has taken part in many Jewish religious and cultural events and attended vigils for the victims of the 7th October 2023 attack has not prevented allegations of antisemitism.

However, Mamdani made sure that marchers were kept safe, with a comprehensive security plan but the allegations of antisemitism continue even though what he did – and has always done – is to distinguish between the Jewish community, which he serves and protects, and the policies of Israel that he opposes.  In addition his stand serves to recognise the much maligned 40% of US Jews who share Mamdani’s views.

Here we also find out more about who did attend – in the same week that saw Netanyahu order the seizure of 70% of Gaza and continued with its ethnic cleansing of Silwan, East Jerusalem. Opposing these violations of agreements and of international law is surely the responsible thing to do as is increasing by 800% the City’s budget to tackle hate crimes to better protect Jews and all New Yorkers.

In addition to those listed in this article Bezalel Smortich also turned up – uninvited – and was delighted with the turn out, saying that it reminded him on the annual Flag Day marches in Jerusalem. These marches are full of Jewish Israelis chanting slogans such as “Death to Arabs”.  This has led some New York leaders to decry Smotrich’s participation. This includes the State’s governor, who led the march “strongly condemning” Smotrich’s presence. Another indication that Mamdani was right to stay away.

This article was originally published by Let's address this blog on Sun 31 May 2026. Read the original here.