As home to the largest Jewish population outside of Israel, New York City has long been a hub for pro-Israel events. However, following the election of Muslim socialist Mayor Zohran Mamdani, the city’s recent Israel Day parade took place without him, with NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch serving as the stand-in grand marshal.

In a security briefing ahead of the event, Mamdani stated he had previously declared on the campaign trail his refusal to attend the parade and his clear stance against the Israeli government. He also emphasized his responsibility as mayor to ensure the safety and security of all New Yorkers.

The Israel Day parade, which attracts tens of thousands annually along Fifth Avenue, has been a significant tradition for Jewish communities in the city. Rabbi Joseph Potasnik, executive director of the New York Board of Rabbis, said the event is not a policy parade but a celebration of religious identity and culture, particularly concerning ongoing antisemitism in the city.

Mamdani’s decision to skip the event sparked discussion within Jewish community circles, with some questioning his rationale given the current climate. Meanwhile, Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman criticized Mamdani as “anti-Israel” and “an anti-Semite,” accusing him of watered down the definition of antisemitism while failing to address human rights concerns in countries like Iran and Russia.

Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon praised the parade’s turnout despite Mayor Mamdani’s absence, noting that the event demonstrated a strong connection between New York City and Israel. He stated that efforts to distance Jewish communities from Israel would not succeed.

The parade was also attended by Governor Hochul and Senator Schumer, alongside other prominent New York officials including Attorney General Leticia James.