Trump administration approves visas for Iran's president, foreign minister to attend UN

US President Donald Trump revealed on Thursday that he is facing a "big decision" regarding the ongoing Iran war, as it enters its seventh month and escalates with Iran-backed Houthi forces and Saudi Arabia clashing. Ahead of an upcoming meeting with six Gulf leaders at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Trump stated that his next move will be influenced by discussions with these leaders. The meeting aims to address the future of the Iran conflict and the United States' plans for the post-war regional order.

Trump expressed his desire to hear directly from the Gulf leaders before making any decisions, stating, "I want to find out where they are and how they are doing. We have been very protective of them." The ongoing conflict has brought significant economic and security risks for the Gulf states, including attacks on energy infrastructure and disruptions to vital maritime routes.

Trump expressed hope that the nearly seven-month war would be nearing its end, hoping for a potential deal, but acknowledged that the situation remains uncertain.

The conflict has spread to Yemen, with Iran-aligned Houthi forces and Saudi Arabia exchanging strikes, leading to further economic and humanitarian challenges. Saudi Arabia has reported the first civilian casualty from the latest Houthi attacks, while the country's East-West Pipeline, which transports crude oil, was temporarily shut down due to drone attacks on pumping stations.

The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global energy route, has experienced a sharp decline in commercial vessel traffic due to the conflict, with Iran threatening to keep the waterway closed until the United States lifts its blockade.