Iran was ‘bully of the Middle East’ — ‘but bully no more’: Trump at UN

US President Donald Trump addressed the United Nations General Assembly, portraying Iran as the Middle East's dominant security threat and the region's previous "bully." Trump defended his decision to confront Iran militarily, claiming it was the number one sponsor of terror. He emphasized the regime's 51-year history of ruling by bloodshed and mass murder, spreading death and chaos throughout the Middle East and beyond.

Trump declared that Iran was no longer the "bully of the Middle East" but had been restrained by American military action. He framed his policy as a choice between allowing Iran's power to expand or using military strength to force a change, claiming he had offered Iran diplomatic opportunities but they were refused. Trump warned that further escalation was possible and expressed belief that the US and Iran would ultimately reach an agreement, potentially after the US midterm elections.

He reiterated that Iran must not acquire a nuclear weapon, but also left the door open for diplomacy, stating that talks with Iranian officials had lasted about three hours and were "very good", with another meeting expected.