Former Miss Israel Challenges NYC First Lady to Second Meeting Over Political Stance

Former Miss Israel Melanie Shiraz has publicly invited New York City First Lady Rama Duwaji for a second meeting, offering to cover the coffee after a previous encounter at a Brooklyn cafe. Shiraz, who has been vocal about her pro-Israel stance, aims to address political differences with Duwaji, the wife of Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who has expressed pro-Palestinian views.

In an Instagram video, Shiraz stated her intention to build bridges and extended an open invitation for a conversation about Israel, the Middle East, or any other topic Duwaji might wish to discuss. Shiraz emphasized that she is willing to engage with anyone who has issues with her or her beliefs, promising to ask questions that may be difficult to answer.

Shiraz told The Post that she believes Duwaji and her husband have contributed to an environment that feels increasingly antisemitic and dangerous for Jewish residents in New York City. She specifically wants Duwaji to explain, face-to-face, how her public positions align with the experiences of those who survived the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks.

Duwaji has faced scrutiny for past social media posts that were critical of Israel, including one that suggested Tel Aviv should not exist. Mayor Mamdani's office has previously stated that his wife is a private individual with no formal role in his campaign or city administration.

This latest public challenge comes after an initial meeting in May, which Shiraz described as awkward. She claimed that Duwaji initially seemed receptive but her demeanor changed once Shiraz identified herself as Israeli. Shiraz noted that Duwaji then appeared to disengage from the conversation.

Shiraz, who was Miss Israel for the 2025-2026 term, had her ties with the Miss Israel organization severed earlier this year after she alleged the pageant was rigged. She studied at UC Berkeley and worked in the tech industry before returning to Israel.

In May, Shiraz recounted to The Post that Duwaji "brushed me off" after she learned Shiraz was Israeli. Shiraz recalled that a selfie video started cordially, but Duwaji's reaction shifted as she tried to exit the frame and avoid further engagement.

Shiraz has also been involved in public confrontations, including an incident at Stanford University where she contended with protesters. She has continued to travel across the U.S. to share her perspectives.