Zohran Mamdani, New York City’s first Muslim mayor, has cancelled several Israel-related executive orders on his first day in office, reversing decisions taken by former mayor Eric Adams. The revoked directives included the adoption of the IHRA definition of antisemitism and other policy measures linked to Israel that were implemented after September 2024.

The move drew criticism from Israeli officials, who accused Mamdani of sending the wrong message at a sensitive time. In response, Mamdani said the changes were made after consultations with civil-rights groups and Jewish organisations who argued the IHRA definition could limit free speech and suppress political debate.

Mamdani also cancelled multiple other Adams-era directives following corruption allegations against the former mayor, signalling a major policy shift at City Hall. The decision has sparked debate within political and diplomatic circles about the balance between combating hate and protecting civil liberties.