Representatives from Iran and Cuba exited the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s address, where he issued strong critiques of both nations. The walkouts occurred as Trump delivered remarks on U.S. foreign policy, particularly targeting Iran’s military activities and Cuba’s political state.
The Iranian delegation left the chamber when Trump broached the subject of U.S. military operations against Iran, warning that further action could be taken if a diplomatic agreement was not achieved. Although Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi were in New York for the assembly, they were absent from the chamber during the speech.
Trump’s address underscored a choice facing the United States: reaching an accord with Iran or escalating actions against the Islamic Republic. He called on other nations to intensify economic pressure on Tehran, reinforcing the U.S. administration’s stance on Iran.
Shortly afterward, the Cuban delegation also departed the assembly hall following Trump’s characterization of Cuba as a “failed state.” He indicated that his administration was advocating for significant changes on the island and asserted that the U.S. would not permit foreign adversaries to establish a foothold there.
The departures marked a moment of tension during Trump’s speech, which aimed to outline his administration’s foreign policy positions on key global issues before the assembled world leaders at the General Assembly.