New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has given his statement about the Feb. 28 joint strikes carried out by the United States and Israel on Iran’s military bases and senior officials. Responding to a question from an Iranian-American TikTok news creator about what he would say to members of the Iranian diaspora in New York and abroad, Mamdani stated that the recent bombings “marked a catastrophic escalation in an illegal war of aggression.” He warned that these strikes risk opening “another theatre of war” which could result in civilian deaths.
Mamdani argued that the ongoing war does not prioritize the American people, who he said want peace. “Americans do not want this. Americans do not want another war in pursuit of regime change. We want an answer to the affordability crisis.”
He also addressed Iranian Americans living in New York, assuring them they would be safe in the city. “You are a part of the fabric of our city. You’re our neighbours. You’re our small business owners, our students, our artists, our creators, our community leaders. You will be safe here,” he stated.
Reports from the BBC indicated that hundreds were killed in the attacks, including senior Iranian military figures and the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
What Netizens Are Saying About the New York Mayor’s Statement
Netizens reacting to Mamdani’s remarks appeared divided over his stance. Some praised his tone and message, with one writing, “Protect this man at all costs! Straight talking and honest,” while another said, “It is such a shame that he cannot run for the presidency.”
Others, however, were more critical of his statement. One person wrote, “Wow but criticizing Iran is not something he’s willing to do, unreal.” Someone else commented, “Did he comment on tens of thousands of Iranians murdered by the Islamic regime or do our lives only matter when Israel kills us?” A third added, “Is it any surprise that he supports the Iranian regime over the USA?”
