Syrian Official Jests With Trump Over Golan Heights

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's advisor, Walid al-Muallem, jokingly suggested to U.S. President Donald Trump that he give Israel the state of New Jersey instead of the Golan Heights. The remark came on Wednesday on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly meetings, following Trump's expression of support for Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights. Al-Muallem stated that while the Golan is not Trump's to give away, New Jersey is. He also criticized Israel, pointing to alleged attacks on the presidential palace and airports, questioning if this brings security to Israelis. Al-Muallem contrasted this with Syria's successful relations with the U.S., Britain, and Lebanon, suggesting the problem lies with Israel, not Syria.

Earlier, Trump addressed the UN General Assembly, discussing the U.S. economy, Iran, and the September 11 and October 7 attacks. He urged global participation in U.S.-led economic sanctions against Iran, predicting a world free of the current regime and lower oil prices. Trump also indicated he faces a choice between reaching a deal with Iran or destroying it, but expressed belief a deal would be signed post-U.S. midterm elections. Other world leaders, including Brazil's Lula da Silva and Turkey's Recep Tayyip Erdogan, also delivered speeches during the assembly.