Far-right Israeli ministers march in NYC parade – Hochul criticises sharply

The Israel Day Parade in New York became a flashpoint for political tensions: Haaretz reports that far-right Israeli politician Bezalel Smotrich and members of Minister Ben-Gvir's party participated in the annual event. This sparked fierce criticism from New York.

Governor Kathy Hochul, who led the parade, strongly condemned Smotrich's participation. She spoke of a strong condemnation of the far-right minister's appearance. In doing so, Hochul joined growing criticism from New York officials and Jewish organisations.

Boycott and protests from officials

Mayor Zohran Mamdani, New York's first Muslim mayor, had already boycotted the parade – a decision that the Forward deems correct, because it protested against the participation of extremist Israeli politicians. Mamdani said he was "offended" by the presence of Smotrich and other extremists.

The parade reveals deep rifts in New York's political landscape. Whilst American Jews have the right to celebrate Israel's existence, the invitation of far-right Israeli politicians is increasingly seen as problematic. Truthout documents how the controversy is also opening new divides in a hotly contested congressional election campaign between Jewish candidates.

The tensions show: support for Israel in New York is not monolithic. It is splitting along the question of which Israeli politicians and positions the city wants to represent.