Overview
- Following coordinated U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iranian targets, Mayor Zohran Mamdani called the operation a catastrophic escalation and an illegal war of aggression.
- Mamdani said New York is enhancing patrols at sensitive locations and coordinating across agencies, while Gov. Kathy Hochul ordered increased state police presence at religious, cultural and diplomatic sites.
- The mayor addressed Iranian New Yorkers directly, assuring they are part of the city’s fabric and will be safe as local authorities take precautionary steps.
- Conservative politicians and public figures, including Sen. Ted Cruz and investor Bill Ackman, condemned Mamdani’s statement, with critics also highlighting his recent cordial White House meeting with President Trump.
- Iranian state media reported hundreds of casualties and retaliation with missiles and drones, and multiple outlets, citing those sources, said Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed as verification continues.