US President Donald Trump told the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday that he faces a “big decision” over whether to pursue a peace agreement with Iran or launch further military action, warning that he could “annihilate the Islamic Republic” if the conflict remains unresolved.
Speaking in New York, Trump defended the US-Israeli military campaign against Iran and argued that it had prevented Tehran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.
Members of Iran’s delegation walked out during the address, while Trump later told reporters that US officials had held a “very good” three-hour meeting with the Iranian delegation.
Trump predicted that his administration could reach an agreement with Iran after the November 3 US midterm elections and urged other countries to economically isolate Tehran to increase pressure for negotiations.
He framed the choice as one between allowing Iran to rebuild under an agreement or escalating the conflict through further US military action.
Trump also dismissed suggestions that the midterm elections could restrict his approach to the war.
Outside UN headquarters, dozens of demonstrators opposed to Iran’s government gathered, with some displaying signs supporting democracy and condemning dictatorship.
His address came less than a week after a UN fact-finding mission said it had reasonable grounds to believe US forces committed war crimes in two strikes on Iran.
Trump used the 37-minute address to outline a wider foreign policy centered on US military power and national sovereignty while criticizing international institutions and rejecting the concept of global government.
He said Washington would prevent threats from establishing themselves in the Western Hemisphere, while criticizing Mexico over cartel violence and pledging a fundamental change in the US approach toward Cuba.
Members of Cuba’s delegation also walked out during his remarks.
Trump additionally said his administration was working with Russia and Ukraine toward ending their war and discussed artificial intelligence, warning of its challenges while opposing restrictions that could impede its growth.
His UN schedule included meetings with leaders from Ukraine, Britain, Japan and several Gulf states, as conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine remained central to his diplomatic agenda.