Thu Sep 19 07:27:33 UTC 2024: ## Iran and US Trade Barbs Ahead of UN General Assembly
**New York, NY** – Tensions between Iran and the United States continue to simmer ahead of the United Nations General Assembly, with both sides exchanging pointed rhetoric.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, speaking at a press conference ahead of his trip to New York, called on the US to end its “hostility” towards Iran, stating that the Iranian people are not hostile to Americans. He accused the US of imposing problems on Iran under the guise of protecting Israel, calling for an end to US support of the “Zionist regime.”
US State Department Spokesman Matthew Miller responded by stating that the US judges the Iranian government by its actions, not its words. While acknowledging a large Iranian community in the US, Miller reiterated longstanding US criticisms of Iran, calling for the cessation of alleged support for terrorist groups, the curtailment of nuclear activities, a halt to the transfer of missiles to Russia, and the improvement of human rights.
Pezeshkian also raised the possibility of a meeting with his American counterpart, but only after the US demonstrates its “brotherhood” through concrete actions.
This latest exchange comes as both countries prepare to participate in the UN General Assembly, where the possibility of dialogue remains uncertain amidst ongoing tensions.
First Piper 