Trump and Macron Address UN General Assembly on Iran, Gaza, and Regional Conflicts

Arrival remarks and confrontation with media

United States President Donald Trump arrived at the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York on Tuesday, speaking with reporters before entering the assembly hall. Trump opened his appearance by addressing Russian President Vladimir Putin directly, stating that the Russian leader must resolve the war in Ukraine. When CNN correspondent Kaitlan Collins asked about American public opposition to a potential war with Iran, Trump turned the exchange to the network itself. Trump claimed the broadcaster had earlier pledged not to report on him and told Collins that the outlet should not be present. Collins replied that the United Nations had issued formal credentials to CNN, which was among three news organizations recently barred from the White House grounds by the Trump administration.

It is an honor to be here. I am surprised CNN is here to cover my presence. You should not be here.

Speeches on Iran policy and Cuban government

Inside the General Assembly hall, Trump urged international delegates to unite in isolating Iran through economic measures. He stated that the government in Tehran is weak and desperate, asserting that large changes could happen quickly while insisting Iran will never be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons. Trump told world leaders that he faces a choice between annihilating Iran or reaching a diplomatic agreement. He projected that Washington would finalize a pact immediately after the November midterm congressional elections, arguing that Iranian officials are delaying talks to observe the outcome of the vote. Turning to the Caribbean, Trump said his administration seeks fundamental change in Cuba, stating his belief that the island's government will fall.

Delegation walkout and domestic acknowledgments

The Cuban diplomatic delegation walked out of the General Assembly chamber while Trump spoke about their government. Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez responded in a statement on the social media platform X, describing Trump's claims as lies and slander. Rodríguez stated that Cuba remains an independent sovereign state that does not threaten the United States, calling the US economic blockade and energy embargo acts of genocide and collective punishment. During his speech, Trump paused his prepared remarks to locate First Lady Melania Trump in the hall, drawing applause from the audience as he commended her work for children in war zones. Melania Trump raised her hand from the audience after the president remarked from the podium that he could not see her.

Macron calls for action on Gaza and West Bank

French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the assembly with a focus on the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians. Macron questioned the international community's credibility in the face of ongoing inaction regarding the Gaza Strip, describing conditions across the Palestinian territories as a spectacle that brings shame to everyone. He argued that watching events in Gaza and the West Bank without taking action is unacceptable. Macron reaffirmed French support for a two-state solution, stating that establishing an independent state for Palestinians is an essential condition for the security of Israel and its people. He also condemned the rise in violence by Israeli settlers in the West Bank and urged member states to take concrete steps.

What is our credibility if we continue to remain inactive regarding Gaza?