President Donald Trump addressed the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 22, 2026, stating he faces a "big decision" regarding Iran, indicating the possibility of military action if a peace deal is not reached. During his speech, which was attended by a single member of Iran's delegation, Trump mentioned the potential to "annihilate" Iran if conflicts remain unresolved. He also rejected the notion of "global government" and expressed intentions to broker peace between Russia and Ukraine, while emphasizing the U.S. commitment to leading in artificial intelligence.
Trump's remarks came amid high-level diplomatic discussions, including a meeting between U.S. and Iranian representatives. He highlighted his administration's foreign policy achievements, including military actions in the Middle East that he claimed prevented Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
The speech contrasted with UN Secretary General António Guterres's earlier comments about deepening global divisions and the need for interdependence among nations. Trump also signed a military agreement with Denmark regarding U.S. presence in Greenland.
In his address, Trump reiterated his belief that a deal with Iran could be reached after the upcoming U.S. midterm elections. He characterized his approach as one of coercive diplomacy, balancing threats of force with the potential for negotiation. Following the speech, U.S. officials described their discussions with Iranian delegates as "very productive."
Trump predicted that his diplomatic efforts could lead to a resolution in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and downplayed concerns regarding artificial intelligence, suggesting it should be referred to as "super intelligence." He also criticized international institutions, asserting that the U.S. would not allow threats to its interests in the Western hemisphere.
During the assembly, Trump directed criticism towards the Cuban government, which led to the Cuban delegation walking out of the chamber.
The U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov following the assembly discussions.