New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo bars business with companies supporting Israel boycott. Photo: Wikimedia Commons.

JNS.org – New York Governor Andrew M. Cuomo on Sunday issued the first-ever executive order on the U.S. state level that targets the anti-Israel Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement. The governor’s order prohibits any state agency or authority from engaging in a boycott of Israel or promoting BDS movement activities.

Cuomo announced the order at the annual Celebrate Israel Parade in New York City. “New York stands in solidarity with Israel today and always,” he said.

“This state will not stand for the politics of discrimination in any form, and we will continue to demonstrate our unwavering support for the people of Israel in the fight for freedom, liberty, and democracy,” said Cuomo. “I’m proud to sign this nation’s leading executive order, which will help protect Israel from the threat of divestment. This order sends the message that this state will do everything in its power to end this hateful, intolerant campaign. New York and Israel share an unbreakable bond and I pray that the Israeli and Palestinian people will find a way to live side by side and find peace, prosperity and security.”

The new mandate, which took effect immediately, requires New York’s Office of General Services to make a list of state institutions and companies that participate in BDS activity “either directly or through a parent or subsidiary.” The list will be posted on the state agency’s website within six months and will continue to be updated based on new information.

“It’s very simple: If you boycott against Israel, New York will boycott you,” Cuomo said Sunday before marching in the pro-Israel parade, the New York Post reported.