Full Breakdown
Iran’s President Pezeshkian Confronts U.S. Threats at the UN Amid a Prolonged War
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
On September 23, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian addressed the 193-member United Nations General Assembly, declaring that Iran would “not surrender” in its war with the United States and urging a return to diplomacy. He rejected President Donald Trump’s UN remarks labeling Iran the world’s leading sponsor of terrorism and warned that the United States could “annihilate” the Islamic Republic if a deal was not reached. Pezeshkian also highlighted civilian casualties, citing a February 28 school strike in Minab that killed more than 175 children and teachers, and called for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz under equitable terms.
Background & Context
The conflict began in February 2024 when coordinated U.S. and Israeli strikes hit Iranian territory, prompting Tehran to respond militarily. A June memorandum of understanding (MOU) temporarily halted hostilities, but the agreement collapsed by July, reigniting fighting. In the weeks before the UN session, President Trump asserted that Iran was waiting for the November midterm elections before agreeing to a deal, while Pezeshkian insisted Tehran was willing to negotiate beforehand.
Timeline
- September 22 – Opening of the 81st UN General Assembly.
- September 23 – Pezeshkian’s UN speech condemning U.S. “bullying” and rejecting surrender.
- September 24 – Bilateral meetings with Dutch, Pakistani and Lebanese leaders on the sidelines of the Assembly.
- February 28 – Missile strike on a primary school in Minab kills >175 children and teachers.
- March 5 – Reuters reports an internal U.S. military investigation finding U.S. forces likely responsible for the Minab strike.
Data & Statistics
- The Strait of Hormuz carries approximately one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments, a strategic chokepoint contested by both sides.
- The war has lasted about seven months, with the White House claiming “thousands” of Iranian civilians have been killed.
- The June MOU, now expired, called for a ceasefire, lifting of the U.S. naval blockade, and unrestricted traffic through the Strait.
Official Statements & Responses
Criticism & Opposition
Iranian parliamentarian Esmaeil Kowsari dismissed Trump’s UN remarks as “political bluffing and psychological warfare,” asserting that a meeting between the two leaders would never occur.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Responsibility for the February 28 Minab school strike remains disputed. Iranian officials attribute the attack to U.S. forces, while the Pentagon has not publicly released its investigation findings. Reuters reported on March 5 that an internal U.S. confirmation has been issued.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We don’t want it to get to the midterm elections,” — Masoud Pezeshkian, Iranian president
- “The US president called us terrorists but we are the victims of terrorists,” — Masoud Pezeshkian, Iranian president