President Donald Trump told the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday that he is facing a major choice on the US war in Iran, and predicted the two countries could reach an agreement after November’s midterm elections.
Speaking to the UN body, including Iranian representatives, Trump said he was weighing whether to pursue a deal that would allow Iran to rebuild and expand its influence, or instead take a rapid, forceful course against the Islamic Republic. He said that option would leave Iran with no opportunity to harm other countries and would remove the prospect of future generations, while describing the alternative as giving Iran room to develop.
Trump said he expects a negotiated outcome after the elections, arguing it would not make sense for Iran to continue without a deal. He said Iranian leaders are watching how he performs in the midterms, but added that he is not standing again. Trump noted he expects to remain in office for another two and a half years.
Decision Tied To Midterms
Trump said the midterm elections do not affect his Iran policy, saying the only criterion that matters to him is that Iran will not obtain a nuclear weapon. He made the remarks to applause during his address.
The comments came as the conflict continues to affect prices in the United States. According to AAA, the national average for petrol was $4.47 a gallon, while diesel stood at $6.52.
Trump’s speech also reflected political pressure at home. Reuters/Ipsos polling released on Monday showed Trump’s approval rating at 32 percent, down to record lows. Republicans seeking election in the midterms have also struggled in voting intention surveys, trailing Democrats on the generic ballot.
Republicans Press For Changes
A growing number of Republicans have been publicly critical of Trump’s approach to the war. On Monday, frontline Senate candidates in Iowa and Michigan called either for an end to the conflict or for immediate economic relief, as voters face higher energy costs.
While Trump devoted the most time during his address to Iran, he also highlighted other elements of his foreign policy. These included actions related to Venezuela, Cuba and Greenland, as well as efforts to end wars involving Gaza and Ukraine.
Throughout his remarks, the UN’s live broadcast repeatedly cut to a single Iranian representative seated in the chamber.
The Iranian delegation included President Masoud Pezeshkian and foreign minister Abbas Araghchi.
Rubio Leaves Door Open
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Tuesday that there were no meetings scheduled at the UN, but that Trump would be open to holding discussions with Iranian officials during the international gathering.
Trump’s UN timetable was described as packed, with plans to meet a range of leaders. The schedule included meetings with UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
After delivering his speech, Trump joined Greenland and Denmark leaders for a new security agreement.
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23 September 2026
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