In March, Hovagim responded to a post about a downed U.S. drone by calling Musk a “valid military target.” Musk responded that if people came after him, he would retaliate and “finish the job.” Hovagim’s online commentary covers U.S. foreign policy, China, and other international issues, and several of his previous statements were highlighted in August reporting. Mamdani’s office distances itself from HovagimThe clearest political response came from New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s office. Musk responded on August 3 with a warning that he would retaliate if people came after him.