NYC Mayor's First-Day Move Sparks Israeli Accusation of Antisemitism

Israel has accused New York City's new mayor, Zohran Mamdani, of pouring "antisemitic gasoline" on his first day in office. The accusation came after Mayor Mamdani revoked several executive orders. These orders, signed by his predecessor Eric Adams, expressed the city's support for Israel. An Israeli government spokesperson stated the revocations were a "hostile act." They said the move legitimizes antisemitism. Mayor Mamdani's office has not yet issued a detailed public response. On the campaign trail, Mamdani supported the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel. The BDS movement is a controversial global campaign that pressures Israel over its policies toward Palestinians. The revoked orders directed city agencies to show solidarity with Israel. They also mandated the creation of a public awareness campaign against antisemitism. This immediate policy shift signals a major change in the city's diplomatic stance. It sets the stage for potential tension between the mayor's office and pro-Israel groups in the city.