Trump Hails US At UN, Says America Is Rising As Iran War And Global Conflicts Dominate Speech

September 22, 2026

New York: US President Donald Trump addressed the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, presenting his administration’s foreign policy record while defending US military action against Iran and highlighting his efforts to pursue diplomatic solutions to conflicts around the world.

Trump’s address came as the Middle East remains tense amid the ongoing US-Iran war and disruption around the Strait of Hormuz, while the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues without a negotiated settlement. The 81st UN General Assembly’s high-level general debate began on September 22 and will continue through September 28.

Trump Says US Is Rising, Calls For Wars To End

In remarks before entering the UN headquarters, Trump said the United States was “doing a lot of progress” and described the country’s position positively.

He also delivered a brief message to Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying: “Settle the war.”

The Russia-Ukraine conflict remains one of the major issues surrounding this year’s UN gathering. Trump is scheduled to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as part of a wider series of meetings with international leaders during his UN visit.

Trump has previously sought to position his administration as a force for ending international conflicts. At the UN, his message came against the backdrop of continuing fighting in both Ukraine and the Middle East.

Iran War And Strait Of Hormuz In Focus

A major part of the international attention around Trump’s UN appearance has been the ongoing conflict with Iran.

Trump defended the US military campaign, saying the action was aimed at preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. His administration’s handling of the conflict has faced international scrutiny as the war has disrupted energy markets and contributed to instability across the region.

The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy routes, has also become a major concern. Iran has indicated that it could reopen the waterway if the United States eases military pressure and lifts its blockade on Iranian ports, according to reports citing a senior Iranian official.

The possibility of reopening the strait has significant implications for global energy markets because a substantial share of internationally traded oil and liquefied natural gas normally passes through the waterway.

Trump Again Criticises United Nations

Trump has repeatedly criticised the United Nations and its institutions, and his latest address was expected to renew those complaints while highlighting what his administration considers foreign-policy achievements.

His speech also came amid questions over US funding for the UN. The United States recently paid $725 million toward its UN obligations, while the organisation continues to face wider financial pressures. Reuters reported that Washington still owes more than $1 billion to the UN.

Despite Trump’s criticism of the organisation, the UN remains the main international platform for discussions on conflicts, security, development and global cooperation.

Gaza, Middle East And Global Diplomacy

Trump has also sought to highlight his administration’s diplomatic efforts in the Middle East, including efforts connected to the Gaza conflict and attempts to expand the Abraham Accords.

The UN gathering has brought together leaders from across the world at a time of multiple overlapping crises, including the Iran war, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, tensions involving the Houthis and broader concerns over global trade and energy security.

Trump’s UN visit includes a series of bilateral meetings with world leaders. According to Reuters, he is scheduled to hold meetings with at least 11 leaders, including representatives from Europe, Ukraine and Gulf countries.

The UN General Assembly’s 2026 high-level debate is being held under the theme “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.”