‘Holding our heads high’: MKs march at Israel Parade, slam Mamdani's decision to boycott

Thirteen Israeli lawmakers, comprising members from both the coalition and opposition, marched in New York's annual Israel Day Parade on Sunday. Their participation stood in contrast to New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani's decision to boycott the event, a move that made him the first New York mayor to skip the parade since 1964. Mamdani had previously stated his election campaign made his stance on the Israeli government clear. The Israeli delegation, led by Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana, saw their participation as a significant show of strength. Ohana stated the delegation sent a direct message to New York's leadership, accusing some of "despicably fueling the fire of hatred in the city against Israel and its Jewish residents."

“

You will not scare us. The attempt to uproot our connection to this space through lies and violence will not succeed, and will be met here and everywhere with a powerful and united Zionist fist.

Participants waved Israeli flags along Fifth Avenue, contributing to what the Knesset described as the largest Israel solidarity parade ever held in New York City, setting an all-time participation record. Otzma Yehudit MK Yitzhak Kreuzer expressed pride in marching "with supporters of the State of Israel, holding our heads high and marching with Israeli flags with great pride." Yesh Atid MK Vladimir Beliak highlighted the importance of the visit, especially with "an anti-Israel mayor here" for the first time in New York's history.

“

with supporters of the State of Israel, holding our heads high and marching with Israeli flags with great pride.

Opposition coordinator MK Merav Ben-Ari emphasized unity, stating that despite internal political disagreements, "before the world, we have a shared responsibility to stand together." She underscored the importance of their presence, particularly given the mayor's absence, to send a message that support for Israel transcends political divides. The lawmakers were scheduled to return to Israel by Tuesday, ahead of a Knesset dissolution vote.

“

It is very important to come here and support the Jewish community, especially given the fact that for the first time in New York’s history, there is an anti-Israel mayor here.