Trump threatens to ‘annihilate’ Iran in UN speech as officials hold bilateral meeting
News Source
•Tue, 22 Sep 2026 18:19:56 GMT
📰 What Happened
President Donald Trump told the UN General Assembly that Iran faces a choice between 'potential greatness or obliteration'. He asked world leaders whether he should make a deal or 'annihilate the Islamic Republic quickly'. US officials then held a three-hour meeting with Iranian representatives, which Trump called 'very good'. Another meeting is planned for the near future.
🔍 The Backstory
The US and Iran have been in a standoff over Iran's nuclear program and the war that has disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner have led the talks. Threatening to destroy a nation on the UN floor was an unusual moment even for Trump. Iran's delegation has been presenting what it calls a story of resilience and diplomacy at the summit.
🎯 Why It Matters
Talk of destroying a country moves oil prices, markets and the risk of a wider war. A deal could calm both, while a collapse could send costs soaring.
President Donald Trump told the UN General Assembly that Iran faces a choice between 'potential greatness or obliteration'. He asked world leaders whether he should make a deal or 'annihilate the Islamic Republic quickly'. US officials then held a three-hour meeting with Iranian representatives, which Trump called 'very good'. Another meeting is planned for the near future.
The US and Iran have been in a standoff over Iran's nuclear program and the war that has disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner have led the talks. Threatening to destroy a nation on the UN floor was an unusual moment even for Trump. Iran's delegation has been presenting what it calls a story of resilience and diplomacy at the summit.
Talk of destroying a country moves oil prices, markets and the risk of a wider war. A deal could calm both, while a collapse could send costs soaring.