{"id":37896,"date":"2026-09-24T09:45:29","date_gmt":"2026-09-24T06:45:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/?p=37896"},"modified":"2026-09-24T09:45:31","modified_gmt":"2026-09-24T06:45:31","slug":"world-leaders-gather-at-un-general-assembly-to-discuss-wars-energy-crisis-and-global-tensions","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/world-leaders-gather-at-un-general-assembly-to-discuss-wars-energy-crisis-and-global-tensions\/","title":{"rendered":"World leaders gather at UN General Assembly to discuss wars, energy crisis and global tensions"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>17 minute read<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>World leaders gathered at the UN headquarters in New York this week for the high-level segment of the 81st General Assembly, with conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, the Strait of Hormuz crisis, and the war in Gaza dominating the agenda.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The high-level week is being held under the theme \u201cRestoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.\u201d The 81st session formally opened on September 8, while the General Debate is scheduled from September 22 through September 26, 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bangladeshi Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman is presiding over the session. The UN said the week is intended to push cooperation on peace, sustainable development, and other global challenges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nearly 130 heads of state and government are attending the high-level meetings, turning New York into a major center for diplomatic activity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Alongside speeches in the General Assembly Hall, leaders are holding a large number of bilateral and smaller multilateral meetings focused on the wars in Iran and Ukraine, energy security, trade, climate policy, artificial intelligence and other international issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who is in his final year in office before his term ends on December 31, opened the General Debate by warning that international institutions and the principles of the UN Charter are under increasing pressure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cThe fighting must stop. Humanitarian aid must flow. And navigational rights and freedoms must be fully restored in accordance with international law,\u201d Guterres said, while addressing the conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine and the humanitarian situation in Gaza.<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" lang=\"en\" dir=\"ltr\">\u201cThe world does not need a weaker United Nations.<br><br>It needs a UN strong enough to face the world as it is and determined enough to build the world as it should be.\u201d<br><br>\u2013 <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/antonioguterres?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@antonioguterres<\/a> on the indispensable role of the UN to help the world come together to overcome differences. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/jbMVBJWiSm\">pic.twitter.com\/jbMVBJWiSm<\/a><\/p>&mdash; United Nations (@UN) <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/UN\/status\/2102391322141245868?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">September 22, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote> <script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.x.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br><br><strong>Trump Puts Iran at Center of his Speech<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">U.S. President Donald Trump dominated the opening day with a roughly 40-minute speech that focused heavily on American power, Iran, the Middle East, Ukraine, and what he described as his administration&#8217;s record in resolving international conflicts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Trump presented the United States as stronger under his administration and contrasted his approach with previous governments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cTwo and a half centuries after the cause of liberty found its home on this continent, I can report to you with pride that America is back, and our country is stronger today than ever before.\u201d He added, \u201cWhile others have talked, I have acted. While others have spoken of peace, I have made peace.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The White House also described the speech as a statement of American strength and resolve, saying Trump used the address to emphasize U.S. sovereignty, national interests, and opposition to what he described as global control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Iran was the most confrontational part of Trump&#8217;s address. Trump described Iran as \u201cthe number one sponsor of terror\u201d and accused the Iranian government of ruling \u201cby bloodshed and mass murder\u201d for 51 years. He also referred to the October 7, 2023 attacks and defended the U.S. military campaign against Iran.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He cited \u201cOperation Midnight Hammer,\u201d saying U.S. B-2 bombers had destroyed Iranian nuclear facilities, and repeated his position that Iran must not obtain a nuclear weapon. \u201cI will never allow Iran to have a nuclear weapon.\u201d<br><br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\" data-media-max-width=\"800\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" lang=\"en\" dir=\"ltr\">&quot;Just imagine such a vile regime were ever empowered to carry out large scale terror attacks from behind a nuclear shield&quot;<br><br>President Trump speaks on America&#39;s efforts to ensure the Islamic Republic of Iran is NEVER allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/9y4LuOOLgw\">pic.twitter.com\/9y4LuOOLgw<\/a><\/p>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/WhiteHouse\/status\/2102436582041285058?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">September 22, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote> <script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.x.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br>Trump then presented the possibility of either a negotiated settlement with Iran or further military escalation. \u201cI have a big decision to make. Will a deal be made with Iran that lets them rebuild and create a far greater country than it ever was before, maybe one of the greatest in the Middle East or even the world? Or do I annihilate the Islamic Republic\u2026 Do I drive them into hell with no chance of survival?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He called for continued economic pressure on Iran until Tehran ends what Washington describes as its nuclear ambitions, support for militant groups and attacks affecting shipping. Trump also said he expected an eventual agreement with Iran after the U.S. midterm elections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The speech reflected the central position of the Iran conflict in this year&#8217;s UN discussions. The war has affected energy markets and shipping routes, particularly because of the disruption around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world&#8217;s most important energy chokepoints.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Naval traffic through the strait has fallen sharply during the conflict, with only 17 commodity vessels crossing over one recent weekend compared with a pre-war average of about 125 vessels a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian delivered a defiant speech at the UN General Assembly, the first by a leader of a country at war with the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Responding to President Trump\u2019s threat to \u201cannihilate\u201d Iran, he rejected terrorism accusations, stating, \u201cThe U.S. president called us terrorists, but we are the victims of terrorists\u201d and \u201cWe have only defended ourselves. We are not terrorists.\u201d<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" lang=\"en\" dir=\"ltr\">President <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/drpezeshkian?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@drpezeshkian<\/a> spoke not just for a government, but for a 3,000-year-old civilization. He was the powerful voice of courage, resilience, and strength for the Islamic Republic of Iran. Long live the proud, resistant nation of Iran. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/Zrk5coNW7Z\">pic.twitter.com\/Zrk5coNW7Z<\/a><\/p>&mdash; \u0645\u062d\u0645\u062f\u0628\u0627\u0642\u0631 \u0642\u0627\u0644\u06cc\u0628\u0627\u0641 | MB Ghalibaf (@mb_ghalibaf) <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/mb_ghalibaf\/status\/2102785000907342050?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">September 23, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote> <script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.x.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br>Holding up photos of the late Supreme Leader and slain schoolchildren, he added, \u201cThey hit us, but we did not bow our heads or bend the knee.\u201d Pezeshkian vowed resistance would grow under pressure but left the door open to talks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He said, \u201cWe are ready for dialogue, diplomacy and negotiations without accepting the language of force.\u201d On nuclear issues, Pezeshkian said that \u201cNo nuclear weapons and no limitations to peaceful nuclear technology.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br><strong>Trump Claims Progress on Multiple Conflicts<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Trump also used his UN address to present himself as a leader capable of ending wars. He claimed credit for settling eight conflicts, referring to fighting involving Cambodia and Thailand, Kosovo and Serbia, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, India and Pakistan, Armenia and Azerbaijan, as well as the Gaza conflict.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He also referred to his 20-point Gaza plan and a proposed \u201cBoard of Peace\u201d that he said had received Security Council backing. Some of Trump&#8217;s claims about conflicts he described as settled have subsequently been questioned by fact-checkers, including questions about the degree to which some of the conflicts have actually been resolved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On Ukraine, Trump said Washington was working with leaders on both sides and predicted progress. \u201cWe will get that one done\u2026 more quickly than people understand.\u201d He cited monthly battlefield casualties of around 25,000 while describing the scale of the continuing war.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Trump also spoke about artificial intelligence, energy policy, Venezuela, Greenland and U.S. relations with other countries. His comments on AI included a push toward what he described as \u201csuper intelligence,\u201d while energy security remained closely connected to the wider Middle East crisis.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/US-Trump-with-Middle-East-leaders.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1016\" height=\"678\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/US-Trump-with-Middle-East-leaders.jpg?resize=1016%2C678&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"U.S. President Donald Trump meeting with Middle East leaders during Gulf Cooperation Council meeting in New York City\" class=\"wp-image-37907\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/US-Trump-with-Middle-East-leaders.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/US-Trump-with-Middle-East-leaders.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/US-Trump-with-Middle-East-leaders.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/US-Trump-with-Middle-East-leaders.jpg?resize=589%2C392&amp;ssl=1 589w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/US-Trump-with-Middle-East-leaders.jpg?w=1200&amp;ssl=1 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1016px) 100vw, 1016px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em><sup>U.S. President Donald Trump meeting with Middle East leaders during Gulf Cooperation Council meeting in New York City, U.S., on September 22, 2026. (Image Credit: X\/@WhiteHouse)<\/sup><\/em><br><br><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br><strong>Iran Diplomacy Behind the Scenes<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While Trump was delivering his speech, diplomatic contacts over Iran were continuing away from the General Assembly floor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner held several hours of Qatar-facilitated talks with Iranian officials, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Trump described the discussions as \u201cvery productive\u201d and \u201cvery good.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Iran has sought several conditions for ending the conflict, including an end to the war on all fronts, the lifting of the naval blockade, the unfreezing of Iranian assets and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No breakthrough was reported, however, and the positions of Washington and Tehran remained far apart. The negotiations are particularly important because the conflict has moved beyond the battlefield into global energy and shipping markets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Restrictions around Hormuz have forced energy producers and shipping companies to look for alternative routes and emergency arrangements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">France has also been working with the United States on the issue. Reuters reported that Paris began drafting a possible UN Security Council resolution concerning an international mission to restore movement through the Strait of Hormuz.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br><strong>Macron and Trump Discuss Ukraine and Energy Security<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Diplomatic activity was not limited to Iran. French President Emmanuel Macron met Trump in New York on September 21, before the opening of the General Debate. Macron described the meeting as \u201cvery good\u201d and \u201cvery constructive.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The two leaders discussed the wars in Iran and Ukraine, energy markets, protection of critical infrastructure and freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/France-Macron-US-Trump-UNGA-meeting.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1016\" height=\"678\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/France-Macron-US-Trump-UNGA-meeting.jpg?resize=1016%2C678&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"French President Emmanuel Macron meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump\" class=\"wp-image-37906\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/France-Macron-US-Trump-UNGA-meeting.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/France-Macron-US-Trump-UNGA-meeting.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/France-Macron-US-Trump-UNGA-meeting.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/France-Macron-US-Trump-UNGA-meeting.jpg?resize=589%2C392&amp;ssl=1 589w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/France-Macron-US-Trump-UNGA-meeting.jpg?w=1200&amp;ssl=1 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1016px) 100vw, 1016px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em><sup>French President Emmanuel Macron meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in New York City, U.S. (Image Credit: X\/@EmmanuelMacron)<\/sup><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Macron also raised the possibility of a moratorium on attacks against energy and civilian infrastructure in the Russia-Ukraine war. He called for stronger air-defense support for Ukraine, including faster delivery of interceptors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Media outlets reported that Macron said the two leaders had discussed initiatives aimed at establishing an energy-related truce between Russia and Ukraine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Macron subsequently met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and reaffirmed French support for Ukraine as Russian missile and drone attacks continued.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The issue of energy infrastructure has become particularly important as winter approaches. Repeated attacks on electricity and other infrastructure could create additional pressure on Ukraine&#8217;s civilian population and energy system, while disruptions to energy production and transport remain a wider concern for European markets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br><strong>Ukraine Remains a Major Security Issue<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ukraine&#8217;s war entered another United Nations General Assembly week with no comprehensive peace agreement in sight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Russian missile and drone attacks continued as world leaders arrived in New York. Overnight strikes hit several Ukrainian regions, with casualties reported while Zelenskyy was in the United States for the summit.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/US-Trump-Ukraine-Zelenskyy-UNGA-meeting.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1016\" height=\"678\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/US-Trump-Ukraine-Zelenskyy-UNGA-meeting.jpg?resize=1016%2C678&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump\" class=\"wp-image-37905\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/US-Trump-Ukraine-Zelenskyy-UNGA-meeting.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/US-Trump-Ukraine-Zelenskyy-UNGA-meeting.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/US-Trump-Ukraine-Zelenskyy-UNGA-meeting.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/US-Trump-Ukraine-Zelenskyy-UNGA-meeting.jpg?resize=589%2C392&amp;ssl=1 589w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/US-Trump-Ukraine-Zelenskyy-UNGA-meeting.jpg?w=1200&amp;ssl=1 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1016px) 100vw, 1016px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em><sup>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the UNGA Summit. (Image Credit: X\/@ZelenskyyUa)<\/sup><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">European governments and Canada used meetings around the General Assembly to reaffirm support for Ukraine&#8217;s sovereignty and territorial integrity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Crimea Platform also provided another diplomatic forum for discussions about the war, while European leaders continued to focus on air defense, protection of critical infrastructure and support for Ukraine through the coming winter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Trump and Zelenskyy also held a bilateral meeting at UN headquarters. The White House confirmed the meeting and published photographs of the two leaders together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Their discussions focused on Ukraine&#8217;s defense needs, winter preparations, and attacks on energy infrastructure. Trump had previously called for Ukraine to stop attacks on Russian refineries, adding another element to discussions about possible restrictions on attacks against energy facilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br><strong>Gaza Divides the Diplomatic Debate<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Gaza and Israel\u2019s occupation of Palestinian lands were another major issue at the General Assembly. Trump presented his peace plan while other leaders argued that the humanitarian crisis remained unresolved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Trump highlighted his 20-point proposal and described the plan as an important step toward ending the conflict. Macron took a different position in his UN address, arguing that claims of peace did not match conditions on the ground.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In what was described as his final UN address before leaving office next year, French President Macron criticized the lack of humanitarian access and pushed for renewed international efforts toward Palestinian statehood and a two-state solution.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Gaza-destruction-drone-view.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1016\" height=\"620\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Gaza-destruction-drone-view.jpg?resize=1016%2C620&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"A drone view shows the destruction in a residential neighborhood in Gaza City\" class=\"wp-image-32216\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Gaza-destruction-drone-view.jpg?resize=1024%2C625&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Gaza-destruction-drone-view.jpg?resize=300%2C183&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Gaza-destruction-drone-view.jpg?resize=768%2C468&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Gaza-destruction-drone-view.jpg?w=1200&amp;ssl=1 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1016px) 100vw, 1016px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em><sup>A drone view shows the destruction in a residential neighbourhood, amid a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, in Gaza City, on October 19, 2025. (Image Credit: Reuters\/Dawoud Abu Alkas)<\/sup><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He said the situation in Gaza was a \u201cspectacle that should shame us all,\u201d arguing that a peace process must produce concrete humanitarian improvements rather than remain at the level of diplomatic announcements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Macron specifically challenged Trump&#8217;s claim of progress in Gaza, saying that not a single humanitarian corridor had been reopened despite the U.S. president&#8217;s description of his peace initiative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The issue of Palestinian statehood, the situation in the West Bank, and humanitarian access are expected to remain central to discussions throughout the week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br><strong>Different Leaders Bring Different Priorities<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian arrived in New York and was scheduled to address the General Assembly, allowing Tehran to present its position directly to the international community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas was denied a U.S. visa, leading the General Assembly to approve arrangements for him to deliver a pre-recorded address. The resolution allowing the statement passed with 152 votes in favor, three against, and four abstentions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The UN agenda also includes discussions on Sudan and other conflicts that have received less international attention than Iran, Ukraine and Gaza.<br><br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\" data-media-max-width=\"800\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" lang=\"en\" dir=\"ltr\">The 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.<br><br>American strength and resolve is back. \ud83c\uddfa\ud83c\uddf8 <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/AacquPruaB\">pic.twitter.com\/AacquPruaB<\/a><\/p>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/WhiteHouse\/status\/2102769789529637262?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">September 23, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote> <script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.x.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br>British Prime Minister Andy Burnham also met Trump during the UN week, while Trump held meetings with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Gulf Cooperation Council leaders. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">According to the White House statement U.S. President Trump&#8217;s meetings with several world leaders are part of his UN schedule.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br><br><strong>Xi&#8217;s Washington Visit<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">China is also an important part of the diplomatic picture surrounding the UN gathering. Although President Xi Jinping is not attending the General Assembly in person, he is scheduled to visit Washington on September 24 for talks with Trump.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The expected discussions include trade, tariffs, artificial intelligence, rare earth elements and other areas of U.S.-China relations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">According to sources, the U.S. and Chinese officials have been working on issues including AI, critical minerals and the possibility of extending the current tariff arrangements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The meeting is taking place as Washington and Beijing continue to compete over technology and economic security while also looking for areas where cooperation can prevent further tensions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">AI has become particularly important in the bilateral relationship. U.S. and Chinese security experts have recently discussed possible safeguards for military AI, including human oversight and mechanisms to prevent AI systems from contributing to unintended military escalation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Trump&#8217;s meeting therefore adds another major diplomatic channel to an already crowded week of negotiations.<br><br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\" data-media-max-width=\"800\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" lang=\"en\" dir=\"ltr\">President Donald J. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump greet President Xi Jinping of China and Madame Peng Liyuan upon their arrival in Washington, D.C., ahead of the state visit at the White House. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/nm2vGonChM\">pic.twitter.com\/nm2vGonChM<\/a><\/p>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/WhiteHouse\/status\/2102926157955936657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">September 24, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote> <script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.x.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br><br><br><strong>Energy Security<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The conflict around Iran has also changed the character of discussions on energy security at the General Assembly. The Strait of Hormuz normally carries a major share of global oil and gas shipments. Its disruption has forced Gulf producers and shipping companies to use more expensive and complicated alternatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Middle Eastern oil producers have increasingly used ship-to-ship transfers near Oman to keep crude moving. Such arrangements have helped maintain some exports but have also sharply increased transportation costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">European governments are also concerned about the security of maritime trade. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said the European Union&#8217;s Aspides naval mission in the Red Sea needed more than its current six warships to deal with increasing threats to shipping. The mission was created to protect commercial vessels from attacks by Yemen&#8217;s Houthi movement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The combination of the Iran conflict, disruptions in the Red Sea, and instability around major energy routes has therefore made maritime security an important part of this year&#8217;s UN discussions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br><strong>Media Dispute Overshadows Trump&#8217;s Visit<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Trump&#8217;s appearance at the UN was also accompanied by a growing dispute between his administration and several U.S. media organizations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The White House had barred CNN, MS NOW, formerly MSNBC, and Politico from its grounds, accusing the outlets of publishing \u201cfake news.\u201d The organizations challenged the restrictions in court, citing First Amendment concerns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The dispute continued inside the UN complex. Trump confronted CNN correspondent Kaitlan Collins at the UN entrance and told her: \u201cI\u2019m surprised that CNN is here covering me. You should not be here covering me.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/UNGA-Building.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1016\" height=\"628\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/UNGA-Building.jpg?resize=1016%2C628&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"United Nations General Assembly Building\" class=\"wp-image-37911\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/UNGA-Building.jpg?resize=1024%2C633&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/UNGA-Building.jpg?resize=300%2C186&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/UNGA-Building.jpg?resize=767%2C474&amp;ssl=1 767w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/UNGA-Building.jpg?w=1200&amp;ssl=1 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1016px) 100vw, 1016px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em><sup>United Nations General Assembly Building located at the United Nations Headquarters in Manhattan, New York City. (Image Credit: IRIA Special Correspondent\/IRIA Images)<\/sup><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Trump later attacked Collins and other media figures on Truth Social. Despite the White House restrictions, UN credentials allowed journalists from the affected organizations to cover the General Assembly. Most major U.S. networks carried Trump&#8217;s speech, although CNN&#8217;s coverage was more limited.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Trump&#8217;s confrontation with the media became another notable part of an already highly political visit. The White House also launched \u201cTrump TV\u201d as part of its broader effort to communicate directly with audiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br><strong>Climate and Development Remain on the Agenda<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Despite the focus on wars and security, the General Assembly&#8217;s official program covers a much wider range of issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">September 23 includes a high-level event on climate action and the just transition, convened by Guterres. The UN says the meeting is intended to bring together major economies, developing countries, vulnerable states and energy producers and consumers to strengthen cooperation on climate policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The same day also includes a high-level meeting marking the 40th anniversary of the Declaration on the Right to Development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A meeting on the threats posed by sea-level rise is scheduled for September 24, followed by a high-level meeting on pandemic prevention, preparedness and response on September 25.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Artificial intelligence has also emerged as a major issue, reflecting the growing connection between technology, economic development and international security.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The expansion of AI raises questions about regulation, military applications, critical infrastructure, energy consumption and the future of work. For the UN, the challenge is how to develop international rules while allowing countries to benefit from rapidly developing technology.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/UNGA-meeting.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"971\" height=\"647\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/UNGA-meeting.jpg?resize=971%2C647&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"United Nations General Assembly\" class=\"wp-image-37904\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/UNGA-meeting.jpg?w=971&amp;ssl=1 971w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/UNGA-meeting.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/UNGA-meeting.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/UNGA-meeting.jpg?resize=589%2C392&amp;ssl=1 589w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 971px) 100vw, 971px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em><sup>United Nations Secretary-General Ant\u00f3nio Guterres speaking at the UNGA Summit. (Image Credit: UN\/X\/@UN)<\/sup><\/em><br><br><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br><strong>Future of the United Nations<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The General Assembly is also looking beyond the immediate crises. Guterres is in his final year as secretary-general, with his term ending on December 31. The process for selecting his successor is therefore becoming increasingly important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">UN reform is another major issue, including discussions over the future structure of the Security Council and calls from different regions for greater representation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These debates are taking place at a difficult moment for the UN. The organization is expected to respond to multiple wars and humanitarian crises while its member states remain divided over how those crises should be handled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Iran remains the most immediate security crisis, with the war affecting the Middle East, energy markets and global shipping. Ukraine remains a major European security crisis, while Gaza continues to produce intense disagreement over humanitarian access, Palestinian statehood and the direction of peace efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At the same time, leaders are using New York to maintain bilateral channels that could help prevent further escalation. The meetings between Trump and Macron, Trump and Zelenskyy, and the expected Trump-Xi meeting show that much of the important diplomacy is taking place outside the General Assembly Hall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The coming days are expected to bring further speeches from Pezeshkian, Zelenskyy, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other leaders. The UN&#8217;s formal agenda will continue to cover climate change, development, sea-level rise, pandemic preparedness and institutional reform alongside the major security crises.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/China-Xi-arrives-in-US-to-meet-Trump.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1016\" height=\"617\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/China-Xi-arrives-in-US-to-meet-Trump.jpg?resize=1016%2C617&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"U.S. President Donald J. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump welcome Chinese President Xi Jinping and Madame Peng Liyuan to the United States on September 23, 2026, ahead of their state visit at the White House\" class=\"wp-image-37902\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/China-Xi-arrives-in-US-to-meet-Trump.jpg?resize=1024%2C622&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/China-Xi-arrives-in-US-to-meet-Trump.jpg?resize=300%2C182&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/China-Xi-arrives-in-US-to-meet-Trump.jpg?resize=768%2C466&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/China-Xi-arrives-in-US-to-meet-Trump.jpg?w=1400&amp;ssl=1 1400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1016px) 100vw, 1016px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em><sup>U.S. President Donald J. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump welcome Chinese President Xi Jinping and Madame Peng Liyuan to the United States on September 23, 2026, ahead of their state visit at the White House. (Image Credit: X\/@SpoxCHN_MaoNing)<\/sup><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>World leaders gathered at the UN headquarters in New York this week for the high-level segment of the 81st General Assembly, with conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, the Strait of Hormuz crisis, and the war in Gaza dominating the agenda.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":37909,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2},"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[124,62,1,125],"tags":[45,238,75,152,64,92,30,26,356,27,71,20,113,702,7,22,17,625,128],"class_list":["post-37896","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-asia-pacific","category-europe","category-news","category-united-states","tag-china","tag-climate","tag-conflict","tag-energy","tag-france","tag-gaza","tag-iran","tag-israel","tag-middle-east","tag-palestine","tag-politics","tag-russia","tag-security","tag-trump","tag-u-s","tag-ukraine","tag-un","tag-united-nations","tag-war"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/p7jJWb-9Re","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/US-Trump-at-UNGA-summit.jpg?fit=690%2C370&ssl=1","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37896","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=37896"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37896\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":37921,"href":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37896\/revisions\/37921"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/37909"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=37896"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=37896"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=37896"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}