Iranian President Heads to New York for UN Meetings

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is set to travel to New York on Tuesday to participate in the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, official Iranian media reported. The Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) quoted Habibollah Abbasi, Director General of Public Relations at the Presidency Office, confirming on Monday that Pezeshkian would head to the United States on Tuesday. Pezeshkian's visit agenda includes delivering a speech before the General Assembly, holding meetings and discussions with several heads of state and participating officials. The president will also meet with Iranian elites residing in the United States, in addition to a meeting with American elites and representatives of research centers. IRNA reported that the U.S. government had refused to grant entry visas to other members of the Iranian delegation, including members of Pezeshkian's accompanying media team. In a related development, former U.S. President Donald Trump had previously stated he was "open to meeting Pezeshkian" in the United States. The Élysée also indicated arrangements for several meetings for French President Emmanuel Macron with leaders from the Middle East, including the Iranian President. Concurrently, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi departed for Doha on Sunday before continuing his journey to New York to attend the United Nations General Assembly meetings.