As the city with the largest Jewish population outside of Israel, New York has long hosted pro-Israel events. However, following Muslim socialist Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s election, this year’s Israel Day parade took a unique turn when NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch served as the stand-in grand marshal.

Mamdani stated he would not attend the event, explaining that his campaign promises included clear positions on the Israeli government and a commitment to ensuring the safety of all New Yorkers. “I said on the campaign trail that I wouldn’t be attending the parade, and I’ve made my views on the Israeli government abundantly clear,” Mamdani said during a security briefing.

The annual Fifth Avenue event draws tens of thousands of participants, including community groups and students. Tisch, who is Jewish, confirmed her role as honorary grand marshal this year.

Rabbi Joseph Potasnik, executive director of the New York Board of Rabbis, noted that the parade celebrates Jewish identity rather than policy. “It’s not a policy parade. It’s a Jewish people parade,” he said. He added that Mamdani could march and express his views while showing respect for the Jewish community.

The mayor’s absence also drew criticism from Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman, who called Mamdani “anti-Israel” during a news conference. Blakeman accused the mayor of watering down the definition of antisemitism and criticizing Israel while failing to address human rights issues in countries like Iran, Russia, and China.

Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon praised the large turnout at the parade despite Mamdani’s absence. He stated: “Anyone who thinks they can erase Israel or distance the Jewish community from this city saw a clear answer today on the streets of New York.”

The event also saw New York Governor Hochul and Senator Schumer in attendance alongside other state leaders including Attorney General Leticia James.