New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani refused to attend the annual Israel Day parade on Sunday, drawing sharp criticism from pro-Israel leaders. Mamdani, who had promised during his campaign to skip the event, cited his opposition to the Israeli government, which he has accused of committing genocide in Gaza.
Mamdani is believed to be the first mayor to miss the parade since it began in 1964. Other notable absentees included former New York Comptroller Brad Lander and progressive groups Israelis for Peace and Jews for Racial and Economic Justice. The groups praised Mamdani's decision, calling the parade a celebration of Israeli politicians who have cheered on genocide.
In contrast, Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch attended, stating it was her decision to march proudly. Other Democrats present included Senator Chuck Schumer, Representatives Dan Goldman and Jerry Nadler, Governor Kathy Hochul, Attorney General Letitia James, and former mayors Eric Adams and Michael Bloomberg.
Jonathan Greenblatt of the Anti-Defamation League called Mamdani's absence a disgraceful ideological assertion. The New York Post ran a front-page photo of Mamdani riding a bike with the headline 'Cycle of hate.'
Defenders noted the parade featured Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a far-right figure who supports ethnic cleansing. Governor Hochul later condemned Smotrich's participation, calling him a far-right extremist. The parade came weeks after city hall released a video commemorating the Nakba, sparking accusations of one-sided history from pro-Israel supporters.
