'Focus on New York not on Israel,' Governor of New York tells Mayor Mamdani

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has urged New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani to place greater emphasis on the city’s domestic priorities rather than foreign policy, amid continued concern among members of the Jewish community over his positions on Israel.

In an interview with The New York Times, Hochul was asked whether Mamdani’s rhetoric toward Israel could make Jewish New Yorkers uncomfortable. She responded by emphasizing what she sees as the mayor’s primary responsibilities, pointing to issues such as housing and childcare.

“Let’s focus on the fundamentals of municipal management,” Hochul said, arguing that those areas should receive the mayor’s main attention.

Hochul, a Democrat associated with the party’s more moderate wing, has previously supported Mamdani during his political career and continues to work with him on city issues. However, the two leaders have significant differences over Israel and Middle East policy.

The governor also reiterated her opposition to antisemitism, saying she would confront it firmly and personally.

Mamdani’s views on Israel have generated controversy since his campaign. During the election, he pledged to seek the arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if Netanyahu visited New York. He later acknowledged that, as mayor, he does not possess the legal authority to carry out such an arrest. Hochul has previously rejected the idea, noting that the mayor does not have that power.

Mamdani has also faced criticism over his refusal during the campaign to explicitly condemn the slogan “Globalize the Intifada,” as well as comments in which he accused Israel of war crimes.

His approach toward Israel has continued to attract attention since taking office. Mamdani has reversed several policies implemented by former Mayor Eric Adams that were connected to Israel and declined to attend New York’s annual parade supporting Israel, making him the first sitting mayor of the city to skip the event.