Israel Day on Fifth Parade Sun May 31 — Tens of thousands march, Mamdani first NYC mayor in 60+ years to skip, Commissioner Tisch (Jewish) serves as grand marshal

Summary

The 2026 Israel Day on Fifth parade ran 11:30am-4pm along Fifth Ave from 62nd to 74th streets with organizer JCRC chief Mark Treyger predicting "one of the biggest turnouts ever." Mamdani became the first NYC mayor in over six decades to skip — reiterating his campaign-trail position and citing his views on the Israeli government following the office's May Nakba video. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, who is Jewish, served as grand marshal: "It is the mayor's decision not to march, and it is my decision to march proudly." NYPD ran what officials called the most extensive parade security operation ever, including bag checks and screening, with Tisch warning "we will not tolerate any disruptions...any unauthorized persons entering the parade route will be arrested." Mamdani in absence said: "While I will not be attending, our administration has been preparing for weeks to ensure the parade is safe for all those who take part." Hochul attended along with largest-ever Israeli Knesset delegation; first Muslim march contingent led by Anila Ali also participated.

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