Iran’s Pezeshkian tells UN his country is ‘victim’ of US ‘terrorism’

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian responded forcefully to President Donald Trump’s remarks at the United Nations General Assembly, accusing the United States of “terrorism” and presenting photographs of Iranian civilians killed in recent U.S. and Israeli strikes. Pezeshkian’s address, delivered on the second day of the UNGA, highlighted the human toll of what he described as aggressive military actions against Iran, framing his nation as a victim of American aggression. The U.S. delegation reacted by exiting the assembly hall in protest as the Iranian leader concluded his remarks.

The confrontation unfolded against a backdrop of heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington, with the United States maintaining a hardline stance toward Iran’s regional activities while simultaneously warning Tehran of further consequences. Pezeshkian’s use of civilian casualty images was intended to underscore the broader impact of U.S. policy, contrasting sharply with Trump’s own warning to Tehran that “talks are ongoing” but emphasizing a willingness to use force if necessary. The episode reflects the deepening diplomatic rift, as both sides trade accusations of hostility and intimidation on the world stage.

The walk‑out by the American delegation signaled a rare public display of discord within the UN forum, drawing attention from other member states and media outlets covering the assembly. Observers noted that the exchange could influence future negotiations, with Iran likely to leverage the incident to rally international sympathy, while the United States may face criticism for its confrontational approach. The episode adds to a series of contentious speeches at the UN, including remarks by French President Emmanuel Macron and other leaders addressing issues ranging from AI regulation to regional conflicts, underscoring the assembly’s role as a flashpoint for global diplomatic tensions.

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