Israel’s Stinging Retort to Mamdani Was Meant as Retaliation in Kind

New York Times - WorldCenter-LeftEN 7 min read 100% complete by David M. HalbfingerJanuary 5, 2026 at 05:51 PM

AI Summary

long article 7 min

Following Mayor Zohran Mamdani of New York's decision to rescind two executive orders related to antisemitism and boycotts against Israel, the Israeli Foreign Ministry issued a strong rebuke. The ministry criticized Mamdani's actions, accusing him of antisemitism for removing a definition of antisemitism and lifting restrictions on boycotting Israel. This response comes after Israel has become increasingly sensitive to perceived failures in protecting Jewish communities, particularly following a recent antisemitic attack in Sydney, Australia. Israeli officials have publicly called out other world leaders for not specifically naming Jews or antisemitism in their statements condemning attacks. Veteran diplomats suggest Israel's harsh reaction reflects a heightened vigilance against perceived threats to Jewish safety and security worldwide.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Palestinians 40% Australia ×250% Keir Starmer 50% Gideon Saar ×260% Anthony Albanese ×260% Bondi Beach massacre ×260% Israeli government ×270% New York ×370% Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement 70% Israeli Foreign Ministry ×280% Israel ×590% Zohran Mamdani ×490%

Keywords

antisemitism 100% israel 90% zohran mamdani 80% boycott 80% foreign ministry 70% bds movement 60% executive orders 60% security of jewish communities 50% political leaders 50% retaliation 40%