World News

US and Iran hold indirect talks at UN despite Trump threats

Diplomats held three hours of mediated discussions in New York as President Trump warned of annihilation without a deal.

Updated Sep 23, 2026 · 13:52 UTC6 reports

The short version

US and Iranian representatives held a three-hour mediated session during the UN General Assembly in New York.[Al Jazeera · The Guardian · France 24]
US envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi conducted discussions through Qatari mediators.[BBC News · The Guardian · PBS NewsHour]
President Donald Trump described the meeting as productive, though he simultaneously warned he could annihilate Iran if negotiations fail.[Al Jazeera · BBC News · The Guardian · France 24 · PBS NewsHour]
A senior Iranian official signaled Tehran could reopen the Strait of Hormuz within a week if the US lifts port blockades and reduces military pressure.[The Guardian · NPR]

US officials, including envoy Steve Witkoff, held three hours of mediated talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in New York.[BBC News · The Guardian]
Qatari diplomats acted as mediators, shuttling between the American and Iranian delegations throughout the session.[BBC News · PBS NewsHour]
President Trump stated in his address to the UN General Assembly that he faces a choice between helping Iran or annihilating it.[BBC News · The Guardian · PBS NewsHour]
An Iranian official indicated readiness to reopen the Strait of Hormuz within a week if Washington reduces military pressure and lifts port blockades.[The Guardian · NPR]

It remains unverified whether further diplomatic talks will lead to a formal agreement or a permanent reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.[BBC News · The Guardian · NPR]

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.