Iran’s newly elected president, Masoud Pezeshkian, used his first address at the United Nations General Assembly to express his desire for a more positive relationship with the international community. Pezeshkian, a reformer and heart surgeon who took office in July, emphasized the need for all parties, including the United States, to contribute to improving relations.
Pezeshkian’s speech marked a departure from the often confrontational rhetoric used by his predecessors in recent years. He highlighted his goal of laying a solid foundation for Iran’s participation in the global order in a constructive and effective manner.
The recent willingness of Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, to consider reinitiating negotiations with the U.S. regarding Iran’s nuclear program has raised hopes for a potential diplomatic breakthrough. Khamenei’s openness to engagement with the U.S. contrasts with the strained relations that existed during the Trump administration, which withdrew from the nuclear deal in 2018.
As tensions persist in the Middle East, particularly amidst conflicts involving Israel, Hamas, and Hezbollah, Pezeshkian condemned Israel for its actions, accusing the nation of atrocities and crimes against humanity. He called for a response to Israel’s actions in Lebanon and criticized governments that he believes are hindering efforts to address the region’s challenges.
Despite the ongoing attempts by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar to broker a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, the situation in Lebanon adds further complexity to the already challenging diplomatic efforts in the region.
In his address, Pezeshkian directly addressed the American people, highlighting past grievances and advocating for a shift towards a more cooperative relationship between Iran and the U.S. He urged states pursuing counterproductive strategies against Iran to reconsider and prioritize cooperation on mutual challenges.
Pezeshkian concluded his speech by calling for sanctions relief and emphasized the opportunity to move towards a new era of improved relations. While there was no immediate response from the U.S. or Israel, his message of diplomacy and cooperation resonated throughout his remarks at the General Assembly.