New York governor criticises participation of 'extremist' Smotrich in city event

“New York governor criticises participation of 'extremist' Smotrich in city event New York Governor Kathy Hochul has “strongly condemned” the participation of Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich in the city’s annual pro-Israel parade. In a post on X, Hochul said: “Bezalel Smotrich is a far-right extremist whose hateful and divisive rhetoric is fundamentally at odds with the values we hold dear in New York.” Hochul added: “Yesterday’s parade was a celebration of Jewish pride, community, and unity. I strongly condemn his participation.” Meanwhile, New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani declined to attend this year’s Israel Day on Fifth parade, becoming the first mayor in the event’s 61-year history not to take part. Bezalel Smotrich is a far-right extremist whose hateful and divisive rhetoric is fundamentally at odds with the values we hold dear in New York. Yesterday’s parade was a celebration of Jewish pride, community, and unity. I strongly condemn his participation. https://t.co/1Kxsm1o4HF — Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) June 1, 2026

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