Iran rejects US ‘bullying’; insists it remains open to negotiations

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian delivered a resolute address at the United Nations General Assembly on September 23, 2026, directly confronting the United States. His speech came a day after U.S. President Donald Trump issued threats of "annihilation" against Iran. Pezeshkian condemned what he termed American "bullying" and "terrorism," holding up images of Iranian children he stated were killed by U.S. and Israeli weapons, while asserting Iran's right to defend itself and pursue peaceful nuclear technology.

Despite his strong denunciation of U.S. policies, President Pezeshkian also signaled a willingness for diplomatic engagement. He stated that Iran was prepared for dialogue and negotiations, but firmly rejected any approach that involved "the language of force." The U.S. delegation reportedly exited the General Assembly chamber as Pezeshkian began his remarks, underscoring the ongoing tensions between the two nations. However, reports also indicated that U.S. and Iranian envoys held a brief, unannounced meeting on the sidelines of the assembly, which U.S. officials described as constructive, though Tehran downplayed its significance.