NYC Mayor Blocks City Funds for Israel Boycotts, Expands Security for Synagogues

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has signed two executive orders restricting city support for the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement. The orders also increase security protections for synagogues and other Jewish institutions. The first order prohibits city agencies from conducting business with any group that supports BDS. This movement encourages economic pressure on Israel over its policies toward Palestinians. The second directive requires the New York Police Department to increase patrols and security assessments for Jewish houses of worship and community centers. Mayor Adams stated these measures address rising antisemitism. Adams issued these orders just weeks before leaving office in December. The move presents an immediate policy challenge for his successor, City Comptroller Brad Lander, who has criticized such bans in the past.