New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani Revokes Key Jewish Community Protections in Controversial First Moves

New York City’s first Muslim mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has faced immediate criticism for rescinding all late-term executive orders issued by his predecessor, Eric Adams, including safeguards for the city’s Jewish community.

Mamdani announced on Thursday that he revoked all of Adams’ orders dating from September 26, 2024—the date the former mayor was indicted on federal bribery and campaign finance charges—stating he sought to “allow a fresh start for the incoming administration.” The move prompted Israel’s foreign ministry to accuse Mamdani of antisemitism.

“The Mayor shows his true face: He scraps the IHRA definition of antisemitism and lifts restrictions on boycotting Israel,” the ministry stated in a recent message. “This isn’t leadership. It’s antisemitic gasoline on an open fire.”

William Daroff, CEO of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, described Mamdani’s actions as a “troubling indicator” of his direction for New York City. The Israeli ministry cited Mamdani’s reversal of policies that had previously protected Jewish communities under Adams’ administration.

Last June, Adams adopted the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s working definition of Jew-hatred through executive order No. 52 and implemented several measures to combat antisemitism. Daroff noted the IHRA definition is endorsed by two-thirds of U.S. states, more than 30 countries, and hundreds of universities and governmental bodies.

Mamdani’s orders revoked Adams’ Dec. 2 Order 60—prohibiting city entities from boycotting or divesting from Israel—and Executive Order 61, which directed the NYPD to examine protections around houses of worship. The Mayor’s Office to Combat Antisemitism, established by Adams with a May 13 executive order, remains active under Mamdani’s administration despite being subject to revocation.

Adams criticized Mamdani’s decision, stating, “This isn’t new. And it isn’t unity,” after the former mayor had previously pledged a “new era and unity” upon taking office. The controversy has intensified as Mamdani faces scrutiny over his immediate reversal of policies designed to safeguard Jewish communities in New York City.