Pro-Israel New Yorkers will gather on Sunday for the annual Israel Day Parade, celebrating the Jewish state. This year marks a significant change as Mayor Zohran Mamdani will not attend, marking a first in recent memory for the New York City mayor. Mamdani explained his absence was due to his ongoing opposition to the Israeli government.
Parade organizers noted uncertainty over whether he is the first mayor to not attend since the parade’s inception in 1964, as complete attendance records are unavailable. Mamdani assured that Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch would represent his administration, emphasizing increased security measures for the event.
During a Thursday news conference on parade security, Mamdani reiterated his campaign promise to not attend and reaffirmed his stance on the Israeli government. Despite his nonattendance, he stressed his responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of all New Yorkers during events.
Standing alongside Mamdani, Jessica Tisch, who is Jewish and a long-time supporter of Israel, expressed that the parade is considered “one of the most joyful days of the year.”