Iran's President Accuses US of Terrorism, Double Standards at UN

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian addressed the United Nations, asserting that Iran considers itself a victim of terrorism and accusing the United States of violating international law. Pezeshkian claimed that U.S. forces targeted Iranian commanders and scientists and caused the deaths of children in schools, while Iran acted in self-defense. He presented photographs of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, allegedly assassinated on February 28, and Iranian children who died in a recent conflict. Pezeshkian also displayed an image of a girls' school where, according to Iranian authorities, 175 students were killed in an American strike.

The Iranian president stated that Tehran requires nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, not for developing atomic weapons, viewing its nuclear program as part of the nation's progress. He characterized Iran's involvement in recent events as being drawn in against its will, emphasizing that Iran has never initiated wars and has consistently advocated for negotiations.

Pezeshkian's speech was a response to U.S. President Donald Trump's address to the UN General Assembly on September 22, which sharply criticized Iran's regime and threatened its destruction. "Israel kills, but Iran is under sanctions. This is a double standard. The United States does not understand what country they are trying to provoke. Trump must understand that threats only unite our people," Pezeshkian stated.

Earlier, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressed distrust in the UN in its current form, suggesting the organization is influenced by Western countries unwilling to take a firm stance against Israel's actions.