New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani Faces Backlash Over Late Condemnation of Iran’s Crackdown on Protests

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has finally condemned Iranian leaders for their deadly response to anti-government protests, following criticism that his delay in speaking out contradicts his previous stance on Middle East conflicts.

Mamdani’s remarks came after he addressed the issue only after taking off-topic questions at a Tuesday night press conference, stating: “I absolutely do not support the way the Iranian government has responded to that.” He also emphasized that the regime should “respect the right of people to express their political opinions” safely.

The delayed condemnation drew scrutiny as Mamdani has been vocal about Israel-related matters but has faced criticism for his slow response on Iran. Detractors accused him of selective outrage, noting he has been quick to criticize America’s allies in conflicts involving Israel but hesitant to address a radical Islamist regime accused of using lethal force against demonstrators.

Iranian officials have reported roughly 2,000 fatalities in recent unrest, including security forces. The protests, described as among the largest in years, have also triggered international reactions, with President Donald Trump publicly encouraging protesters and vowing assistance while declining to specify its form. Additionally, Trump has threatened new economic sanctions against nations engaging with Iran.

Mamdani’s recent actions at City Hall have sparked backlash, including his reversal of executive orders from former Mayor Eric Adams that aimed to combat antisemitism and Israel-related divestment policies. Israel’s Foreign Ministry criticized the move as inflammatory, particularly after Mamdani rolled back the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism.

The mayor’s inauguration also highlighted cultural symbolism, as he took his oath using Qurans, including a centuries-old copy from the New York Public Library’s Schomburg Center collection.