Iran foreign minister arrives in New York for UN General Assembly

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in New York on Monday to attend the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), as Iran prepares to voice its stance on regional matters amid increased tensions with the United States and Israel. Upon his arrival at John F. Kennedy International Airport, Araghchi was greeted by Gholamhossein Darzi, Iran's permanent representative to the United Nations.

The Iranian delegation, which included a high-level group, had a brief stop in Doha before proceeding to New York, where they engaged in discussions with Qatari officials regarding the latest regional events. Araghchi is expected to participate in further diplomatic talks during the UNGA's high-level week.

President Masoud Pezeshkian is also set to travel to New York on Tuesday, with an address at the General Assembly on Wednesday, September 23. During his speech, Pezeshkian is anticipated to outline Iran's perspective on global developments, particularly its view on the "US-Israeli war of aggression" against Iran. The president is also expected to meet with world leaders, senior officials, Iranians residing in the United States, as well as engage in discussions with American academics, elites, and think tanks.

Iranian authorities have reported that the U.S. government has denied visas to some members of the Iranian delegation, including members of Pezeshkian's media team. Tehran has labeled this action as a "hostile move" by Washington. The Iranian delegation's arrival in New York occurs amidst ongoing tensions between Tehran and Washington, alongside a broader sanctions campaign targeting Iran's economic and international networks.

The U.S. Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent, has warned that Iranian airlines may face significant restrictions on international operations starting from September 23, as Washington threatens secondary sanctions against foreign entities that continue to provide services to Iranian carriers. According to Al Jazeera, Bessent stated, "On September 23, all the Iranian airlines will be shut down around the world."

These sanctions will extend to foreign airports, fuel suppliers, ticketing companies, and other businesses that cater to Iranian airlines. The UNGA, which is taking place under the theme "Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations That Delivers for All," will focus on addressing global challenges, including climate action, sustainable development, sea-level rise, and pandemic preparedness.