Iranian President Addresses UN After Trump's Threat
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is addressing the UN General Assembly in New York on Wednesday, one day after US President Donald Trump threatened to "annihilate" the country during his own speech. Trump accused Iran of being the "world's greatest sponsor of terrorism" and called for its total economic isolation, while presenting two options: a potential agreement leading to "greatness" or "annihilation." He claimed the US destroyed Iran's nuclear program and expressed belief a deal could be reached after November's midterm elections. Iranian officials responded defiantly, with the IRGC spokesman warning the US would gain "nothing but failure" from new attacks. However, a senior Iranian source told Reuters that Tehran could reopen the Strait of Hormuz within seven days if Washington reduces military pressure and lifts port blockades, with a proposal transmitted through mediators last week. Trump also reported a three-hour meeting between his administration and the Iranian delegation at the UN, calling it "very productive."