U.S., Iran hold first talks since June as Trump threatens annihilation

This is a report on the first diplomatic talks between the United States and Iran since June 2021. The talks, facilitated by Qatari mediators, took place on Tuesday at the United Nations General Assembly. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei confirmed the talks, stating that Iran conveyed its views and conditions explicitly to the American side through mediators.

President Trump, during his speech to the U.N. General Assembly, threatened to annihilate Iran if a deal was not reached soon to end the nearly seven-month war. Baqaei criticized Trump's remarks, saying they indicated desperation rather than strength. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff said the talks were successful and constructive. Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, and special envoy Witkoff participated in the meeting.

The talks came as both countries were present at the U.N. General Assembly. Trump expressed optimism about a potential agreement before the U.S. midterm elections in November, suggesting Iran would not pursue a nuclear weapon.