NEW YORK: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has arrived in New York to attend the United Nations General Assembly, Iranian state media reported on Wednesday.
State broadcaster IRIB released a video showing Pezeshkian exiting an aircraft after arriving at a New York airport. The Iranian president is expected to address the UN gathering amid heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington.
Pezeshkian’s visit comes as diplomatic efforts surrounding the conflict involving Iran and the United States continue on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.
Earlier, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held talks with US special envoy Steve Witkoff in New York, according to Iranian media. The meeting marked a significant diplomatic contact between Iranian and US officials as discussions continue over conditions for easing tensions.
IRIB reported that Araghchi conveyed Tehran’s demands to Witkoff for reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Iran reportedly called for the immediate lifting of what it described as a US naval blockade, the release of frozen Iranian assets and an end to the war on what Tehran refers to as resistance fronts.
The talks reportedly lasted around three hours and were mediated by diplomats from Qatar. Witkoff described the meeting positively and indicated that another meeting could take place in the near future.
Iranian officials also confirmed that Araghchi participated in the discussions with Witkoff. The meeting was the first reported direct contact between senior Iranian and US officials since US Vice President JD Vance met an Iranian delegation in Switzerland in June to discuss a memorandum of understanding.
The diplomatic engagement comes as the Strait of Hormuz remains a major focus of international concern because of its importance to global energy supplies and shipping.
A senior Iranian official said Tehran was prepared to reopen the strategic waterway within a week if Washington takes reciprocal measures to reduce military and economic pressure on Iran.
Pezeshkian’s presence at the UN provides Iran with an opportunity to present its position to the international community as diplomatic contacts with the United States continue.
His expected address comes at a critical time, with negotiations and efforts to reduce tensions taking place alongside discussions over the conflict, sanctions and the future of the Strait of Hormuz.
The Iranian president’s arrival in New York is being closely watched as world leaders gather for the UN General Assembly.
