Former Miss Israel challenges New York City first lady to second meeting

Former Miss Israel Melanie Shiraz has publicly challenged New York City first lady Rama Duwaji to a second sitdown after a viral encounter between the two in May, the New York Post reported. Shiraz offered to pay for the coffee and stated that she wanted to give Duwaji another chance to do the right thing. [1]

The initial meeting occurred when the two individuals bumped into each other at a Brooklyn cafe. The New York Post reported that Shiraz expressed a desire to address contentious issues during a future meeting, including Duwaji's public criticisms of Israel. [1]

Shiraz stated that she is focused on building bridges, noting that Duwaji was not interested in having a conversation during their previous encounter. Duwaji is an American animator, illustrator, and ceramist who has served as the first lady of New York City since January 2026, following the election of her husband, Mayor Zohran Mamdani. [1][3]

The Miss Israel national beauty pageant was founded in 1950. Its winners historically represented the country at international pageants, including Miss Universe and Miss World. [2]