UNITED NATIONS: US President Donald Trump warned on Tuesday that he could “annihilate” Iran if no agreement is reached to end the war, while also suggesting that a deal could emerge as diplomatic efforts intensified on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.
“I have a big decision to make,” Trump said in his UN speech in New York, presenting Iran with a choice between reaching an agreement and facing further US military action.
Iran’s Armed Forces dismissed Trump’s remarks as “propaganda” and said they were prepared to respond with what they described as more severe and unpredictable attacks against any aggressor.
Despite the sharply worded statements, diplomatic efforts continued in New York, with US special envoy Steve Witkoff confirming that American and Iranian representatives held lengthy indirect discussions through mediators during the day. Witkoff said he hoped the talks would prove constructive.
Iran signals possible reopening of Strait of Hormuz
The Strait of Hormuz has emerged as a central issue in the diplomatic efforts. The strategically important waterway is a major route for global oil and gas shipments and has faced severe disruption during the conflict.
A senior Iranian official told Reuters that Tehran could reopen the strait within seven days if Washington eased military pressure and lifted its blockade of Iranian ports. Iran had conveyed its proposal to the United States through mediators, according to the official.
The official said Iran’s delegation in New York had authority to pursue diplomatic negotiations.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also met Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani as Doha continued efforts to facilitate dialogue between Tehran and Washington.
Conflict puts pressure on regional security
Trump also met leaders from Middle Eastern countries that are seeking the restoration of normal shipping through the Strait of Hormuz while facing security concerns linked to the wider conflict.
Several Gulf countries host major US military facilities, some of which have come under Iranian attacks during the war.
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Trump said the situation with Iran could end after the November 3 US midterm elections, or potentially earlier, while acknowledging uncertainty over the timing.
The diplomatic efforts come as the conflict continues to affect regional security and global energy markets. Oil prices have remained volatile, while hopes of progress in US-Iran discussions and the restoration of alternative Saudi export routes have provided some relief to markets.
Gulf states discuss wider security framework
Regional sources said a Qatari proposal for a common security framework involving Iran and Arab Gulf states was also under discussion.
The proposal could include security guarantees for Gulf countries and greater economic interdependence with Iran, according to the sources.
Saudi Arabia has meanwhile faced increased security pressure as Iran-aligned Houthi fighters have advanced in Yemen and threatened Saudi-linked energy routes.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington would support Saudi Arabia but described the Yemen conflict as complex and involving longstanding regional issues.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has restarted operations at its East-West Pipeline, an important route for transporting oil while bypassing the Strait of Hormuz. The move has helped ease some concerns over regional supply disruptions.
The latest diplomatic contacts leave the possibility of negotiations open, but major differences remain between Washington and Tehran, particularly over military pressure, sanctions, the blockade and access through the Strait of Hormuz.
