New York clarifies anti-BDS order excludes foreign governments

The New York State administration has clarified that a 2016 executive order targeting the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel does not apply to foreign governments. This clarification follows recent decisions by countries such as the United Kingdom and Canada to prohibit trade with Israeli settlements in the West Bank.

The original order, signed by former Governor Andrew Cuomo, requires state entities to withdraw investments from companies and institutions participating in BDS activities. However, the state Office of General Services (OGS) stated that the order does not extend to foreign nations because state agencies are not permitted to invest in foreign governments.

This interpretation allows Governor Kathy Hochul to navigate the complex political landscape regarding Israeli settlements and international trade policies while maintaining the existing anti-BDS framework.