Iran in focus as Trump is set to address UN General Assembly

US President Donald Trump is scheduled to speak at the UN General Assembly on Tuesday, marking a year after his controversial address where he criticized the organization for being ineffective and a "con job" regarding climate change. Since then, numerous developments have occurred in both the UN and US. Last year, Trump claimed to be better at ending wars than the UN, yet he initiated a new conflict with Iran on February 28.

This ongoing war, which initially was expected to conclude within weeks, has now entered its seventh month without a clear resolution. During his presidency, Trump has boasted about resolving seven conflicts without UN assistance, but his attempts to further involve the UN in this new conflict have been met with resistance from other nations.

The UN Security Council, however, did pass a resolution condemning Iran's attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The war with Iran has become a significant issue as Trump prepares for the midterm elections on November 3, with his approval rating plummeting due to economic hardships caused by the conflict. Additionally, the Houthis' recent advancements in Yemen could potentially threaten shipping through the Bab Al Mandeb strait, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.

Trump's return to New York for the UNGA comes at a time when the UN faces numerous challenges, including budget shortfalls and attacks from his administration. His administration has also targeted various world bodies, including the International Criminal Court, which Secretary of State Marco Rubio has vowed to dismantle.