Former New York City Democratic Mayor Eric Adams sharply criticized his successor, Democratic socialist Mayor Zohran Mamdani, over his condemnation of the recent U.S.-Israeli military strikes on Iran, arguing that some political figures are siding with a regime rather than its victims, as reported by Fox News.

Adams addressed the issue Sunday, taking aim at what he described as a reflexive reaction from politicians on both the far left and far right following the joint U.S.-Israeli operation that eliminated Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Hosseini Khamenei.

Adams said Iranian Americans in New York were not protesting the United States but instead supporting the action.

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He stated that Iranian Americans living in New York are cheering and not protesting the U.S. for "finally confronting the savage regime that has tortured, murdered, and terrorized their families for nearly half a century."

"The ones screaming in protest are the usual political fanatics on the far left and far right, people so blinded by ideology that they will defend a regime that whips women for showing their hair, executes LGBTQ people from cranes, bankrolls terrorism, and openly calls for America’s destruction," Adams said.

"If you are running interference for that regime, you are not ‘anti-war,’ you are morally hollow," Adams said.

Adams shared images of New Yorkers, including children, waving Iranian flags in support of the Iranian people.

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His statement came in direct response to Mamdani’s remarks criticizing the military action.

"Americans do not want this… You are choosing tyrants over victims," Mamdani said.

"Today’s military strikes… mark a catastrophic escalation in an illegal war of aggression. Bombing cities. Killing civilians. Opening a new theater of war," Mamdani said.

"They want relief from the affordability crisis. They want peace. I am focused on making sure that every New Yorker is safe."

Mamdani also addressed Iranian American residents of the city, telling them they are the "fabric of this city" and that they will be "safe here."

Today’s military strikes on Iran — carried out by the United States and Israel — mark a catastrophic escalation in an illegal war of aggression. Bombing cities. Killing civilians. Opening a new theater of war. Americans do not want this. They do not want another war in pursuit…

— Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@NYCMayor) February 28, 2026

Adams’ comments followed a longer statement he issued regarding the situation in Iran, in which he acknowledged the death of Khamenei.

"While the military operation continues and the regime’s ultimate fate remains uncertain, the passing of a man who ruled through fear, repression, and brutality cannot be ignored," Adams said.

"We also stand with the Iranian people, who have endured so much and long for dignity, liberty, and a future free from tyranny. New York is home to a vibrant Iranian community. I know how long you have hoped and prayed for the freedom of your loved ones in Iran. Be assured that the overwhelming majority of New Yorkers stand with you tonight."

Adams’ remarks drew bipartisan responses, including from former Secretary of Defense Gen. James "Mad Dog" Mattis, Ret.

"Many Iranian Americans support the U.S. for taking action against Iran’s brutal regime, while the loudest critics are ideological extremists defending tyranny over victims. New Yorkers stand with those confronting this evil and protecting freedom," Mattis said.

Mattis added that Khamenei’s death is a "significant moment" but emphasized that focus should remain on supporting U.S. forces.

Adams’ statements prompted reactions on X, where users shared videos of street celebrations in Washington, Berlin, Sydney, and other cities.

Some commenters also expressed views on the city’s political leadership in light of the exchange.

Fox News Digital reached out to Mamdani’s office for comment.

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