Trump Warns of Possible Annihilation of Iran, Hints at Diplomatic Solution at UN

US President Donald Trump issued a stark warning about Iran during his address at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Tuesday. Trump stated that he faced a major decision: either pursue a deal that could allow Iran to rebuild and prosper or take rapid military action to "annihilate the Islamic Republic."

Iran's Armed Forces dismissed the US President's remarks as "propaganda" and pledged to deliver severe and unpredictable retaliatory actions if attacked. Despite heated words, diplomatic efforts continued at the UN with mediators facilitating discussions between US and Iranian representatives.

US envoy Steve Witkoff reported lengthy talks taking place between the two sides through mediators, expressing hope that the discussions would yield constructive outcomes. Trump separately held meetings with Middle Eastern leaders, many of whom are concerned about the security of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil trade, and wary of increasing Iranian influence.

Trump suggested that the conflict with Iran could end soon, possibly after the US midterm elections on November 3, but did not commit to a timetable. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi met Qatar's Prime Minister in a continued push for de-escalation. A senior Iranian official stated Tehran could reopen the Strait of Hormuz within a week if the US eased military pressure and lifted port blockades.

Regional discussions also included a Qatari proposal to create a shared security framework between Arab Gulf states and Iran. Sources indicated Iran is reviewing this proposal, which would require security guarantees for Gulf countries and increased economic ties with Tehran.

Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, has become more involved in the conflict, as Houthi forces aligned with Iran made gains in Yemen, threatening Saudi oil exports. While Saudi Arabia has requested increased US military action against the Houthis, recent US strikes have been scaled back, with President Trump reportedly calling off an attack at the last moment.

On the economic front, oil markets saw some improvement after reports that Saudi Arabia resumed operations at its East-West pipeline and could soon restart exports from the Red Sea port of Yanbu. The pipeline serves as Saudi Arabia's main alternative export route if disruption continues in the Strait of Hormuz.