New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani condemned the Iranian government's deadly response to protesters and urged protection for safe, peaceful political expression. He joined Governor Kathy Hochul and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio‑Cortez in denouncing pro‑Hamas chants at a Queens rally. Mamdani confirmed he has exchanged texts with former President Trump since their Oval Office meeting, while reports say Iranian forces used live ammunition and President Trump signaled support for dissidents.
Mayor Mamdani Condemns Iran's Deadly Crackdown, Urges Protection For Peaceful Protest
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani speaks at a press conference during moving day at Gracie Mansion on Jan. 12, 2026, in New York City.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani on Tuesday publicly condemned the Iranian government's violent response to nationwide protests and called on all governments to protect the right to safe, peaceful political expression.
Asked about the unrest, Mamdani said:
"I absolutely do not support the way the Iranian government has responded to that. I think that the Iranian government and every government should respect the right of people to express their political opinions, and for people to be able to do so safely."
Mamdani—who describes himself as a Democratic socialist and was sworn in earlier this year—also joined Governor Kathy Hochul and Representative Alexandria Ocasio‑Cortez in denouncing chants of "We Support Hamas" at a recent Queens demonstration, calling those slogans "disgusting and antisemitic."
President Donald Trump takes questions from members of the press aboard Air Force One on Jan. 11, 2026, en route back to the White House from Palm Beach, Fla.
He confirmed that he has stayed in touch with former President Donald Trump since meeting him in the Oval Office last year. "I've exchanged a handful of texts with the president since we met in the Oval Office," Mamdani said, adding that their conversations "always come back to New York City and the importance of delivering for the people who call this city home."
Meanwhile, reports say Iranian security forces have used live ammunition against demonstrators. On Truth Social, President Trump posted a message encouraging Iranian protesters and signaling U.S. support for dissidents:
"Iranian Patriots, KEEP PROTESTING — TAKE OVER YOUR INSTITUTIONS!!! Save the names of the killers and abusers. They will pay a big price. I have cancelled all meetings with Iranian Officials until the senseless killing of protesters STOPS. HELP IS ON ITS WAY. MIGA!!!"
The mayor's comments add to growing international concern over the reported violence against protesters in Iran and highlight the political sensitivity of solidarity demonstrations in New York City.
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