Trump Signals Openness to Meeting Iran's Pezeshkian at UNGA Amid High-Stakes Iran Decision

President Donald Trump indicated in a Fox News interview on September 20, 2026, that he would 'probably be open' to a meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian during the UN General Assembly high-level week in New York. Trump described himself as being in 'deciding mode' on Iran, with 'very big things' expected soon, outlining three paths: major military escalation, continued economic pressure allowing Iran to 'rot,' or forging a deal.

The remarks come as the Trump administration has approved visas for a core Iranian delegation, including Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, to attend the 81st UNGA session, consistent with U.S. host country obligations. Pezeshkian is scheduled to address the General Assembly on September 23, 2026, and hold side meetings with world leaders.

Iran has conveyed conditions for ending the conflict through Qatari mediators, including an end to hostilities on all fronts, release of frozen assets, and lifting of the naval blockade. Iranian officials have warned that any renewed U.S. attacks would trigger retaliation against regional allies and U.S. interests.

These developments highlight a dual-track approach of pressure and potential diplomacy, with the UNGA providing a rare venue for high-level contact amid nearly seven months of conflict that began with U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran in February 2026.