Trump Reveals Three-Hour Meeting with Iranian Leaders at UN General Assembly

President Donald Trump disclosed on September 22, 2026, that his special envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, held a three-hour meeting with Iranian leaders during the United Nations General Assembly. The meeting commenced around 10 a.m. while Trump delivered a speech threatening severe consequences for Iran. It remains unclear who represented Iran, although President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi were present in New York for UN meetings. Trump described the meeting as 'very good' and 'productive,' indicating that another meeting is planned soon. This marks the first high-level negotiation since a cease-fire and memorandum of understanding collapsed in July. Trump alternated between threats of violence and optimistic predictions of a potential deal, stating, 'It’s potential greatness or obliteration.' He mentioned that the situation with Iran could resolve soon, possibly before the midterm elections. During discussions with Middle Eastern leaders, Trump suggested he might order airstrikes on Iran’s alleged nuclear facility if necessary. He emphasized that Iran should not rely on a potential Democratic victory in the upcoming elections, asserting that his administration's focus remains on preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. The ongoing conflict has contributed to rising global energy prices and inflation, which have affected Republican popularity ahead of the elections. Iranian diplomats reportedly walked out during Trump's speech at the General Assembly, where he reiterated his stance against Iran's nuclear ambitions.