Representatives from Iran and Cuba exited the United Nations General Assembly during U.S. President Donald Trump’s address on September 22, following his critical remarks about both nations. The Iranian delegation walked out after Trump discussed military actions against Iran and suggested that further measures were possible if no agreement was reached. Although Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi were in New York for the assembly, they were not in the chamber during the speech.
In his address, Trump underscored a choice for the United States between negotiating a deal with Iran or escalating actions against the country. He also called upon other nations to intensify economic pressure on Tehran, positioning this as a pivotal moment for international relations with the Islamic Republic.
The Cuban representatives left the assembly following Trump’s remarks labeling Cuba as a “failed state.” Trump asserted that his administration was pushing for major changes on the island and declared that freedom would eventually come to Cuba. He further stated that the U.S. would prevent foreign adversaries from establishing a presence there.
The walkouts highlighted tensions during a speech in which Trump articulated his administration’s stance on various international issues, including those concerning Iran and Cuba, before the global leaders convened at the UN General Assembly.