US President Donald Trump used his address to the United Nations General Assembly to deliver a stark message to Iran, warning that he could “annihilate” the Islamic Republic if efforts to end the conflict fail.
Speaking before world leaders in New York on Tuesday, Trump said he was weighing two paths: pursuing a peace agreement that could allow Iran to rebuild, or taking further military action to prevent what he described as future threats.
“Will a deal be made with Iran that lets them rebuild and create a far greater country than it ever was before?” Trump asked.
“Or do I annihilate the Islamic Republic and do it quickly?”
The remarks came as American and Iranian officials held indirect talks on the sidelines of the UN gathering, signalling that diplomacy remains active despite months of conflict. US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed that discussions took place through mediators, while Iranian state media reported that Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi participated in the talks. Iranian officials said Tehran’s conditions included an end to military operations and what they described as US aggression.
Trump later told reporters that the meeting had been “very productive”, expressing confidence that a broader agreement with Iran could emerge after November’s US midterm elections.
Eight Months On
The war with Iran, now approaching its eighth month, has placed growing pressure on global energy markets and contributed to concerns over stability in the Middle East. Attacks on shipping routes and oil facilities have pushed up energy prices, while the conflict has become a central issue in Trump’s foreign policy agenda.
During his speech, Trump defended the military campaign against Iran, arguing that it had prevented Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Also stating that it has demonstrated the effectiveness of what he called “peace through strength”.
The president also turned to other international issues, repeating his pledge to help end the war between Russia and Ukraine. He said Washington was working closely with both governments and suggested progress could come sooner than many expected.
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