Mamdani's Reversal of Adams-Era Executive Orders Sparks Controversy Over Antisemitism and Israel Policies
On his first day as New York City's mayor, Mamdani revoked several executive orders issued during Eric Adams' administration, including a ban on city-sponsored boycotts and divestment from Israel and the adoption of the IHRA antisemitism definition. These actions came following Adams' indictment on federal corruption charges, leading to the cancellation of all orders issued on or after September 26, 2024, with plans to reissue those that Mamdani still supports.
Israel's Foreign Ministry condemned Mamdani's revocation, stating that scrapping the IHRA definition and lifting restrictions on boycotting Israel amounted to "pouring antisemitic gasoline" on existing tensions. One notable rescinded order involved directing the NYPD to enforce protest-free buffer zones around churches, synagogues, and mosques.
Critics, such as Brooklyn Councilwoman Inna Vernikov, argued that the IHRA definition is essential for protecting Jewish communities and urged the enforcement of federal laws against antisemitism. They warned that the removal of these protections could embolden pro-Hamas antisemitism.
Mamdani, the first Muslim mayor of New York City sworn in on family Qurans, has faced harsh criticism. Some detractors have labeled him a "jihadist communist" and "terrorist sympathizer," with Representative Elise Stefanik among them. Mamdani has openly described Israel as an apartheid state, accused it of genocide in Gaza, and called for the arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Despite these controversial statements, Mamdani asserts that he will not tolerate antisemitism and plans to increase funding to combat hate crimes.
