Overview
- Coordinated U.S.-Israeli strikes hit targets across Iran, including Tehran, as Iranian state media reported hundreds dead and claimed top leaders were struck, though Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s status remained disputed.
- Iran fired missiles and drones toward Israel and U.S. bases in the region in response, with large-scale operations continuing through the weekend.
- Mamdani called the offensive “a catastrophic escalation in an illegal war of aggression,” arguing Americans want peace rather than a push for regime change.
- He said New York City is increasing interagency coordination and NYPD patrols at sensitive sites out of caution, and Gov. Kathy Hochul announced added state police presence at religious, cultural and diplomatic locations.
- Conservative figures including Sen. Ted Cruz, Rep. Nancy Mace, investor Bill Ackman and activist Masih Alinejad castigated his stance online, while the mayor told Iranian New Yorkers they are part of the city’s fabric and “will be safe here.”