Oriontimes Newsroom| September 23, 2026
NEW YORK — United States President Donald Trump has warned Iran that it faces a stark choice between reaching a deal with Washington or facing the possible “annihilation” of the Islamic Republic.
Speaking at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, Trump defended his administration’s military actions against Iran and reiterated that he would not allow Tehran to obtain a nuclear weapon.
Trump told world leaders that he had a “big decision” to make regarding Iran, asking whether Tehran should be allowed to rebuild through a negotiated settlement or whether the United States should “annihilate the Islamic Republic” and prevent it from threatening other countries in the future.
The remarks marked one of the most confrontational moments of his address, coming from the podium of an institution traditionally associated with diplomacy, international cooperation and the peaceful resolution of disputes.
Trump said his administration had already taken military action against Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, claiming that the operation had prevented Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. He also accused Iran of continuing to expand its missile and drone capabilities.
Despite the threat, Trump also indicated that diplomacy remained possible. He said he believed the United States and Iran could eventually reach an agreement that would allow Iran to rebuild and become “a far greater country,” while urging Tehran to return to negotiations and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump further called on other countries to support economic pressure on Iran, framing the confrontation as part of his broader strategy to prevent Tehran from developing nuclear weapons and to reshape the security balance in the Middle East.
The Iranian delegation reportedly walked out of the General Assembly during portions of Trump's address in which he sharply criticised the Islamic Republic.
Trump's speech underscored the continuing tension between military pressure and diplomatic engagement as Washington seeks an end to the conflict while maintaining its demand that Iran abandon any pursuit of nuclear weapons.
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