New York — September 23, 2026 | PK News

US President Donald Trump has warned that he could “annihilate” the Islamic Republic of Iran if Washington and Tehran fail to reach an agreement, delivering one of his strongest threats yet during his address to the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

Trump presented the conflict as a choice between a diplomatic agreement and further military action. He said the United States could allow Iran to rebuild and pursue a different future through a deal, but also raised the possibility of destroying the Islamic Republic if an agreement cannot be reached.

The remarks came as tensions between Washington and Tehran remain extremely high, while diplomatic efforts continue behind the scenes.

US and Iran Continue Indirect Discussions

Despite Trump's tough language at the UN, US and Iranian representatives have continued communicating through intermediaries.

US envoy Steve Witkoff said on Tuesday that Washington and Tehran had engaged in lengthy discussions on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. According to Witkoff, mediators moved between the two sides throughout the day in an effort to explore possible diplomatic progress.

He described the discussions as potentially constructive, although no agreement has been announced.

The diplomatic activity highlights the uncertainty surrounding the conflict: public statements remain confrontational, while intermediaries continue exploring whether a negotiated settlement is possible.

Trump Links Possible Deal to US Elections

Trump also indicated that he expects a potential agreement with Iran to come after the November 3 US midterm elections.

He argued that Iranian leaders may be waiting to see how the elections affect the political situation in Washington. Trump has rejected the idea that the elections should determine his approach to the conflict and said his primary concern is preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.

The timing has become particularly important because the conflict is already affecting energy markets and regional security.

Iran Rejects Trump's Threat

Iran's Armed Forces responded to Trump's UN remarks by dismissing them as propaganda and warning that Iran was prepared to respond to further attacks.

Iranian officials have repeatedly said that any renewed military action against the country could produce a wider regional confrontation. Tehran has also linked a possible diplomatic settlement to issues including military pressure, sanctions and the situation surrounding the Strait of Hormuz.

The waterway is strategically important to the global energy market. Reuters reported that it normally carries a significant share of global oil and gas shipments, making continued disruption a major concern for international markets.

Gulf States Caught Between Security and Diplomacy

The escalating US-Iran confrontation is also putting pressure on countries across the Gulf.

Several Gulf states maintain close security relationships with Washington while simultaneously seeking to avoid becoming direct participants in the conflict. Many also host US military facilities and have faced threats or attacks connected to the wider confrontation.

Saudi Arabia, in particular, faces additional security concerns because fighting involving Yemen's Houthi movement has intensified. Reuters reported that Saudi Arabia and the Houthis exchanged attacks in September, adding another layer to an already complicated regional conflict.

Pakistan, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Egypt also issued a joint statement at the UN affirming Saudi Arabia's right to defend itself under international law while stressing the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation in the region.

Oil Markets Remain Under Pressure

The conflict is also affecting global energy markets.

Oil prices have remained close to or around the $100-per-barrel level amid concerns about supply disruptions and uncertainty over the Strait of Hormuz. Reuters reported that Brent crude was trading near $100 per barrel after Trump's comments about the possible timing of an Iran peace agreement.

Saudi Arabia has also taken steps to maintain oil flows through alternative routes. The reopening of the kingdom's East-West Pipeline has helped reduce some concerns over supply, although markets remain sensitive to any further escalation.

What Happens Next?

The immediate question is whether the diplomatic contacts at the United Nations can produce a framework for negotiations.

For now, Washington's public position remains highly confrontational, while Iranian officials continue to signal that they are prepared to respond to military pressure. At the same time, intermediaries are attempting to keep communication channels open.

That leaves the region facing two competing possibilities: renewed diplomatic engagement or another escalation of military confrontation.

No final agreement has been announced, and the situation remains fluid.

PK News will continue monitoring developments between the United States and Iran, including diplomatic talks, military developments, the Strait of Hormuz and their impact on the wider Middle East.

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