Shaking The Trees in the Big Apple

Israelis are continually fascinated by American politics. New York City’s mayoral race was no exception. While the results were never truly in doubt, the Israeli media reacted with nearly universal shock to Zohran Mamdani’s sizable victory. Here is a sample of initial reactions the morning after, including some revealing tidbits from the Arab media.

WHAT ISRAEL STANDS TO LOSE

Why do I care, sitting in Zion, about what happens in New York?

That’s the question Daniel Edelson, YNET’s correspondent who covered the New York City mayoral race, asked. He gave two answers, one focusing on style and one on substance.

“What happens in New York never stays in New York. Although the mayor doesn’t determine foreign policy, his power in shaping the public mood is enormous. A hostile or defiant mayor can affect investments, educational campaigns, and the image of Israel in the American public arena.”

Mamdani’s slogans pose a risk to Jewish security, but he could also drive a financial stake into the heart of Israel’s investment community financially.