United Nations, Sep 22: US President Donald Trump is set to use his address to the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday to highlight his administration’s diplomatic initiatives while defending its military campaign against Iran.
The speech comes as the conflict continues to affect regional security and global energy markets, with the Strait of Hormuz remaining a major concern. Trump is expected to present his foreign policy record as a combination of military action and efforts to broker agreements.
Trump is also likely to focus on his efforts to advance a settlement in Gaza and expand the Abraham Accords, the US backed framework for normalising relations between Israel and Arab countries. His administration has continued to seek additional participation in the accords.
The address will provide Trump with a prominent international platform at a time when the United States is facing questions over its approach to the UN and its broader foreign policy. He has repeatedly criticised the world body since returning to office.
Last year’s UN appearance was marked by Trump’s complaints about a malfunctioning escalator and teleprompter at the New York headquarters. UN officials have since said arrangements were made to avoid similar disruptions during the US delegation’s appearance.
Trump’s UN schedule also includes several high-level meetings. He is expected to meet Britain’s Prime Minister Andy Burnham, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Venezuela’s interim leader Delcy Rodriguez. Discussions are expected to cover conflicts and wider security issues.
The Iran conflict is expected to remain central to Trump’s message. The fighting has had repercussions for energy supplies and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, adding pressure to an already tense global economic environment.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for restraint and continued diplomacy, warning that further escalation could have serious consequences for regional stability and the global economy.
Artificial intelligence is another major issue expected to feature during the UN General Assembly week. Guterres is scheduled to address the growing impact of AI alongside the wars and humanitarian crises confronting the international community.
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva is scheduled to speak before Trump, continuing the long-standing practice of Brazil opening the general debate. Lula has frequently criticised aspects of US foreign policy, making his remarks another closely watched part of the opening session.
Trump’s appearance therefore comes amid multiple diplomatic challenges, with his Iran policy, Gaza initiatives, relations with international institutions and wider efforts to reshape US alliances all drawing attention at this year’s UN gathering.