Israel 'Salutes' New York Anti-BDS Law

Jerusalem, 6 June, 2016 (TPS) -- Jerusalem (TPS) – Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commended on Monday New York Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s decision to sign a “first-in-the-nation” executive order on Sunday divesting state funds from all organizations supporting the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions Movement, known as BDS,

“I salute you, Governor Cuomo,” a post on the Israeli prime minister’s office Twitter account said, followed by “#BDSFail.”

I salute you, Governor Cuomo. #BDSFail

— PM of Israel (@IsraeliPM) June 6, 2016

Cuomo’s executive order calls for state entities to divest all public funds supporting the BDS campaign, a global movement bent on increasing economic and political pressure against Israel.

“I am signing an Executive Order that says very clearly we are against the BDS movement. If you boycott Israel, New York will boycott you,” Cuomo tweeted on Sunday.

I am signing an Executive Order that says very clearly we are against the BDS movement. If you boycott Israel, New York will boycott you. — Andrew Cuomo (@NYGovCuomo) June 5, 2016

According to executive order No. 157, a list of all businesses and groups associated with the BDS movement will be composed over the next six months by the Commissioner of the Office of General Services. The list is compiled using “credible information available to the public.” Companies found to be aligned with the BDS movement can request for removal from the list, providing they submit written evidence they no longer participate in BDS activity.

Once compiled, all executive branch agencies will be required to divest themselves from the listed companies.

“New York stands in solidarity with Israel today and always. 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,” Governor Cuomo said. “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.”

For pictures of the signing posted by Governor Cuomo’s office, click here.