Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has said Tehran wants an agreement with the United States rather than a broader war, adding a new diplomatic signal during the UN General Assembly week in New York.
In an interview reported on September 25, Pezeshkian said Iran had previously reached understandings with U.S. President Donald Trump and remains willing to move forward with negotiations. His comments came after months of direct conflict and repeated public warnings from both governments.
Dialogue remains conditional
Pezeshkian has consistently paired his offers of talks with a rejection of negotiations conducted under military or economic pressure. In his UN address earlier this week, he said Iran was open to diplomacy but would not accept what he called the “language of force.”
Washington has also publicly discussed the possibility of an agreement while maintaining military operations and sanctions. The two sides remain divided over Iran’s nuclear program, regional armed groups, shipping security and the terms of any ceasefire or wider settlement.
UN week creates another diplomatic opening
The Iranian president’s remarks come as multiple governments use meetings in New York to push for de-escalation. Gulf states and European governments have also called for restored maritime security and renewed negotiations.
No new formal agreement had been announced at the time of publication.
Sources: Pezeshkian interview reported by Anadolu Agency, Sept. 25, 2026; Pezeshkian UN General Assembly address, Sept. 23, 2026; Wall Street Journal background reporting. Image: Trevora News original editorial graphic.
