Pezeshkian says Iran ‘no longer trusts talks with Washington’

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated in an Al Jazeera interview that Iran no longer trusts negotiations with the United States due to past attacks and sanctions. He indicated that Qatar and Pakistan are relaying Tehran's messages to Washington regarding a proposal to end the war within seven days, which includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz and lifting sanctions. Pezeshkian described the blocking of the Strait as a response to US actions and asserted Iran has not attacked any country in 200 years, blaming the US and Israel for regional conflict. He also linked sanctions on Iran to Israeli actions in Gaza and emphasized regional security through cooperation rather than external intervention.

Iran has proposed a seven-day peace deal to the United States, transmitted via Qatari mediators, that would reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end hostilities in the Middle East. The plan includes lifting the US naval blockade of Iranian ports, waiving sanctions on Iranian oil sales, and observing a ceasefire that encompasses Lebanon. Iran's Foreign Minister detailed the proposal, stating that nuclear program talks would also restart within seven days of US acceptance. However, the Wall Street Journal reported that President Trump has rejected the deal and anticipates renewed strikes after the US midterm elections. Despite this, a US official described earlier discussions through mediators as "positive and constructive." The conflict has disrupted oil flows and impacted the global economy.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has proposed a deal to the United States that could reopen the Strait of Hormuz within seven days, provided certain conditions are met as outlined in a June memorandum of understanding. This offer was delivered to the US via Qatar. A US official confirmed to the BBC that "constructive discussions" are underway through mediators, which also include nuclear issues. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route for approximately 20% of global oil and LNG, was previously blocked by Iran following air strikes launched by the US and Israel. The closure has significantly impacted energy prices and increased pressure on the US administration, especially with upcoming Congressional elections.

The White House has barred CNN from traveling with President Donald Trump on Air Force One for his trip to Tennessee on Saturday. This decision follows a recent ban by the White House on CNN, Politico, and MS NOW journalists, which the outlets are pursuing legal action against, citing violations of free speech and press freedom. The White House had previously been forced to lift a ban on some news outlets. CNN was scheduled to fly with the president until a note released Friday night did not list the broadcaster on the media schedule, and no other outlet was listed as a replacement. In solidarity with the banned outlets, four television networks paused their broadcasts of the president.

During a three-day state visit to Washington, Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump concluded their summit without a significant agreement on artificial intelligence (AI). The visit, the first by a Chinese president to the White House in over a decade, focused on personal rapport and pageantry rather than substantial policy breakthroughs. Discussions included the wars in Iran and Ukraine and the status of Taiwan. The most notable policy announcement was a two-month extension of a trade truce. Despite the presence of tech executives, the leaders failed to reach an AI breakthrough, with some critics suggesting an opportunity to pause the AI arms race was missed. Both leaders acknowledged the responsibility to develop and manage AI for good, but neither indicated a desire to slow down technological advancement.

Iran has proposed a seven-day plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to the United States, with Qatar acting as an intermediary at the UN General Assembly. Iran's Foreign Minister stated the timetable could begin upon US acceptance of the proposal, which resembles a previous memorandum of understanding that briefly eased conflict. Under that prior agreement, Iran allowed ships passage for 60 days while peace talks occurred. Analysts suggest Iran views control of the strait as crucial for economic recovery and is unlikely to cede it. The US, however, reportedly wants to discuss Iran's nuclear program immediately, while Iran insists on sanctions relief and an end to strikes first. This offer comes as high fuel prices pressure the US administration.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian denied on Fox News that Iran seeks nuclear weapons, citing religious decrees against them. He stated Iran is willing to dilute its uranium enrichment levels and submit its nuclear program to international verification to ease tensions. Pezeshkian blamed the U.S. for the ongoing Middle East conflict, accusing Washington of blocking diplomacy and initiating hostilities. He referenced a past agreement with former President Donald Trump as a basis for moving forward. Pezeshkian also asserted Iran will resist U.S. military and economic pressure and that America must choose to end the conflict.

US President Donald Trump hosted Chinese President Xi Jinping for a three-day state visit in Washington, which focused on ceremony and symbolism over substantive policy achievements. While Trump described the meeting as "great," the summit yielded little progress on key issues like trade, artificial intelligence, Taiwan, and human rights. A temporary truce on trade tariffs was extended by only two months, falling short of China's desire for a longer extension. China's leverage was noted as increased due to its ability to block rare earth exports. The visit's main tangible outcome was the announcement of two pandas being sent to Atlanta zoo. For China, the lack of significant negative outcomes was considered a success.

US television networks resumed covering White House events on Friday, including President Donald Trump's meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. This return to coverage occurred while a court battle continues over the administration's decision to ban CNN, MS Now, and Politico from the presidential grounds. The White House television press pool, which includes ABC, CBS, Fox News, and NBC, provided footage of Xi Jinping's arrival and a tour of the National Archives. Previously, other networks had refused to set up cameras in solidarity, resulting in no pool coverage of the visit until Friday.

The primary White House television pool has resumed filming administration events after a court ruling temporarily overturned a Trump administration ban on CNN. The pool, which includes NBC, ABC, CBS, and Fox News, had ceased operations in solidarity with CNN, MS Now, and Politico, which were banned by the White House for what it termed "FAKE NEWS." This resulted in a de facto TV blackout of the president's activities for several days, impacting coverage of significant events like a summit with China's president. Despite a federal judge's ruling restoring access for the banned outlets, journalists from CNN and MS Now were initially denied entry to a White House state dinner. However, the television pool has since returned to normal coverage, ending an unusual standoff between major media companies and the administration.

During his address at the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attacked Iran, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, and critics accusing Israel of violations against Palestinians. Netanyahu also criticized allied nations like the United Kingdom and France for their stances on Israeli actions. He defended Israel's war against Iran, stating it was a necessary decision to prevent greater harm, and declared Israel was engaged in a "seven-front war." Netanyahu thanked US President Donald Trump for his partnership, highlighting joint missions over Iran and efforts to recover hostages. The speech prompted dozens of international envoys to walk out. The article also notes that Netanyahu faces an upcoming election and denies charges of genocide and war crimes, despite an ICC warrant.

During Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian's address at the United Nations General Assembly, approximately a thousand protesters gathered outside, denouncing his regime as terrorist and demanding its removal. Former officials like Rudy Giuliani and Lt. General Keith Kellogg echoed these sentiments, criticizing the Iranian government for oppression and advocating for a secular, non-nuclear republic. Former U.S. Ambassador Marc Ginsberg urged support for legislation to pressure Iran's resources and promote internet freedom for its people. Maryam Rajavi, president-elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran, stated that the Iranian people reject dictatorship and that true change must come from within. The protests, held over two days, consistently conveyed that the Iranian regime only responds to external pressure and sanctions, as reform is deemed impossible.

US President Donald Trump is meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping for a summit focused on "stabilizing" ties, according to experts. While trade, AI, and security are on the agenda, the primary goal is to re-establish trust rather than achieve major new deals. The meeting follows a period of escalating trade war tariffs and other restrictive measures between the two nations. Experts suggest the summit aims to continue a truce established in late October, potentially leading to a mechanism for reducing tariffs on specific goods and speeding up the flow of critical minerals. However, areas like AI safety and China's role concerning Iran and Taiwan remain complex issues due to a lack of mutual trust.

President Donald Trump welcomed Chinese leader Xi Jinping to Washington for a state visit, which includes discussions on AI technology, trade relations, and Taiwan. This visit coincides with the UN General Assembly, which Xi is not attending. The US and China have agreed to extend a temporary trade truce. In other news, the US has invited Vladimir Putin to a G20 meeting in December. Iran's president criticized the US at the UN General Assembly, calling it a "bully." Israel is facing a water shortage due to crippled desalination capacity, linked to damage to Gaza's wastewater infrastructure. A federal judge ordered the White House to restore press access for CNN, MS Now, and Politico. Eight US Navy personnel on the USS Lincoln have attempted suicide.

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in the United States for a state visit, marking his first in over a decade. He was personally greeted on the tarmac at Joint Base Andrews by President Donald Trump and their wives, a rare gesture. Ahead of their summit, the two countries agreed to extend the Busan trade deal from November 10 to January 10. In a written speech, Xi stated that China and the United States "should be partners rather than rivals" and expressed belief that their goals could be mutually inclusive and beneficial to the world. The Chinese delegation included several high-ranking officials.

A federal judge has ordered President Donald Trump to reinstate White House press credentials for CNN, MS NOW, and Politico. US District Judge Tim Kelly ruled on Thursday that the ban, implemented on September 18, was likely unconstitutional. The judge rejected the administration's claim that the ban was for national security, noting Trump himself cited alleged lack of truthfulness and negativity as reasons. The order requires the return of press passes and blocks enforcement of the ban for 14 days while litigation proceeds. The news organizations had sued, arguing the ban violated their First Amendment rights to free speech and a free press, as well as due process.

A federal judge has ruled that President Trump's ban on journalists from CNN, Politico, and MS Now is likely unconstitutional. The three news outlets sued the administration, arguing the ban violated their First Amendment rights to free speech and a free press, as well as due process rights. They sought and were granted a temporary restraining order to restore their White House access while the legal challenge proceeds. Trump had cited the outlets' reporting as "FICTION and LIES," while Justice Department lawyers attempted to justify the ban on national security grounds.

A federal judge has temporarily overturned the White House's ban on media access for CNN, Politico, and MS NOW, ordering the government to reinstate their hard passes. The ruling stated the administration failed to provide factual support for its contention that revoking the passes would protect national security or that national security would be endangered by their reinstatement during litigation. The White House had cited articles published by these outlets, including those about construction, as justification for the ban. However, the judge noted that in most cases, the criticized stories were not written by reporters holding hard passes, and in other instances, the administration did not demonstrate that the passes were integral to the reporting. This decision was supported by numerous other media organizations and major TV networks had previously withdrawn from White House pool duties in protest.

US President Donald Trump's attire when greeting Chinese President Xi Jinping at Joint Base Andrews on Wednesday drew public attention. Trump made a personal appearance on the tarmac to welcome Xi, who was arriving for his first US state visit in over a decade. Despite the temperature being around 19 degrees Celsius (66 degrees Fahrenheit), Trump was observed wearing a dark overcoat and gloves. The article does not provide a reason for his choice of clothing.

Chinese First Lady Peng Liyuan and First Lady Melania Trump renewed their acquaintance on Wednesday at Joint Base Andrews. Peng arrived with President Xi Jinping for a visit to Washington. The two women smiled as they greeted each other at the bottom of the aircraft stairs. Walking behind their husbands on the red carpet, Peng gestured towards the honor guard, seemingly commenting on their height. This meeting marks a continuation of their prior interactions during the Trumps' first term in the White House.

The United States and Iran held indirect talks through mediators on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York. US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff stated mediators shuttled between delegations, describing the discussions as constructive and promising. President Trump initially suggested a direct meeting between US officials and Iranian counterparts, later clarified by the White House to involve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Iran's conditions for diplomatic progress, conveyed through mediators, include lifting US naval blockades, unfreezing assets, and ending the war on its "resistance" fronts, with a potential reopening of the Strait of Hormuz within seven days if US pressure eases. Regional powers like Qatar and Oman are also involved in efforts to de-escalate tensions and promote dialogue.

Iran has denied dropping preconditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz following three-hour talks in New York between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, mediated by Qatar. President Trump described the discussions as "very productive" and suggested further talks are possible, leading to a drop in Brent crude prices. Iran's foreign ministry confirmed the talks aimed to convey Iran's conditions, including an end to aggressive actions and economic war. The article notes that Iran had previously set seven preconditions for returning to talks and suggested the Strait of Hormuz could be reopened within seven days if these were met. The US side is reportedly under pressure to lower oil prices before midterm elections.

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived at Joint Base Andrews late Wednesday afternoon for a summit with US President Donald Trump. Trump's greeting on the tarmac was an unprecedented gesture for a top American leader. This visit marks Xi's first summit in the United States in 11 years. The meeting occurs as both nations are addressing significant issues, including artificial intelligence, critical minerals, tariffs, Ukraine, the Iran war, Taiwan, and military relations. These complex topics are being discussed despite outward expressions of friendship.

At the UN General Assembly, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian criticized the US as a "bully" and "terrorist" in the Middle East, while asserting Iran's commitment to dialogue and diplomacy without force. He vowed Iran would not yield to American pressure, even as the US delegation walked out during his speech. Pezeshkian also focused on securing regional support for Iran's proposals regarding the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing the need for independent regional security. He accused the US of terrorism for assassinating a leader and killing schoolchildren, stating Iran only defended itself. Despite the defiant tone, Iran's foreign minister engaged in constructive talks with a US envoy, marking the first such meeting since June, though Iran has set preconditions for further negotiations.

During the UN General Assembly, US President Donald Trump threatened to "annihilate" Iran, while simultaneously describing a recent meeting with Iranian officials as "very good." Iran's Armed Forces General Staff responded by warning of "crushing" retaliatory attacks, and Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei used combative imagery to describe Iran's defensive capabilities. These exchanges occurred amid ongoing US-Iran talks aimed at de-escalating a nearly seven-month war that has impacted global fuel prices and Iran's economy. The discussions, involving US envoys and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, were the first in-person meetings in months and are seen as an attempt to revive diplomatic channels.

At the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian characterized US President Donald Trump's remarks as indicative of a "bullying mentality." Pezeshkian stated that Iran would not surrender in its conflict with the US, despite Trump's warning of potential annihilation if no deal is reached. He asserted that such threats would only strengthen Iran's resolve. Pezeshkian also rejected Trump's designation of Iran as a leading sponsor of terrorism, noting that those who train terrorists accuse Iran of the same. While emphasizing Iran's refusal to bow to pressure, Pezeshkian also expressed openness to diplomacy as a means to end the conflict.

The US Department of Justice has defended President Trump's decision to ban CNN, Politico, and MS Now from the White House, arguing in a court filing that access is a privilege, not a right, and citing national security concerns. The department claims the news organizations failed to meet professionalism standards by using anonymous sources and not allowing sufficient time for comment, and that some reporting violated decorum by publishing sensitive information. The news organizations sued, asserting the ban violates the First Amendment, and are seeking a temporary restraining order to regain White House access. The Justice Department's filing outlines specific reporting incidents that allegedly threatened national security and spread falsehoods. A federal judge is expected to hold a hearing on the request for a temporary restraining order.

The US Justice Department has accused CNN, Politico, and MS NOW of "trafficking in verifiable falsehoods" and reporting that "threatened national security" in its defense of banning the media outlets from the White House. The ban, which followed President Trump's accusations of "fake news," led the three organizations to file a joint lawsuit, arguing the move is unconstitutional. A judge is scheduled to decide on Wednesday whether to temporarily lift the ban pending a full hearing. The Justice Department's court filing cites specific reporting incidents, including stories about White House construction and an internal leak investigation, and asserts that White House access is a privilege. The media outlets contend the ban violates their First Amendment rights to freedom of the press.

US President Donald Trump launched a 24-hour YouTube channel run by the White House on September 22, 2026, amidst a dispute with the mainstream media. This move followed his administration's decision to ban CNN, MS NOW, and Politico from covering White House events. In response, five major television networks suspended their coverage, leading to an awkward broadcast of a White House ceremony with only visuals and no audio. The banned outlets have sued the Trump administration, citing First Amendment violations. Trump has also used his social media platform, Truth Social, to communicate directly and has a history of attempting to bypass traditional media outlets. The article notes that other leaders, like Venezuela's Hugo Chavez, have previously used similar methods to communicate directly with the public.

President Donald Trump scolded CNN anchor Kaitlan Collins for covering him at the United Nations in New York. Trump stated Collins should not be there, referencing a previous White House ban on CNN, Politico, and MS Now. Collins had asked the president about the Iran war, citing a poll on American sentiment. The ban, which Trump claims is for national security, has led to lawsuits from the affected news organizations seeking to restore reporter access. The article notes that a federal judge is expected to hold a hearing on the matter.

President Donald Trump banned CNN, Politico, and MS NOW from the White House, accusing them of spreading "fake news." Subsequently, reporters from these outlets found their entry badges disabled. In response, major US TV networks decided to pull out of White House pool duties, effectively boycotting presidential events. This led to a situation where, during the inauguration of a new helipad, many media outlets lacked cameras and microphones to cover the president's remarks. The TV networks stated that the public has a vital interest in receiving accurate, independent information about its government.

On the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, Iranian officials held three hours of talks with US special envoy Steve Witkoff, a meeting confirmed by President Trump. A senior Iranian official indicated Iran would reopen the Strait of Hormuz within a week if the US eased military and economic pressure, a softer stance than previous preconditions. This potential shift, reportedly approved by Iran's supreme leader and national security council, faces internal disputes within Tehran. The talks, mediated by Qatar, represent the first high-level contact since June. Despite these discussions, President Trump's rhetoric at the UN and mixed signals from Iran suggest significant gaps remain between the two nations.

US President Donald Trump announced that US officials held a three-hour meeting with Iranian leaders at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Trump described the meeting as "very good" and "very productive," and stated that another meeting is scheduled for the near future. US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner participated in the talks. While details of the discussions were not shared, Trump reiterated his earlier warning to Iran, presenting them with a choice between "potential greatness or obliteration." This meeting occurred following Trump's address to the UN General Assembly where he threatened to destroy the Islamic Republic if a deal was not reached.

Iran's delegation, led by President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, has arrived in New York for the UN General Assembly to present Iran's narrative of resilience and diplomacy amidst the ongoing war with the United States. Pezeshkian plans to address the assembly on Wednesday, detailing grievances about alleged US-committed crimes and the resulting distrust, while also seeking avenues for resolution. Araghchi will focus on defending Iranian rights and interests in sideline meetings. Iran intends to raise issues such as the Minab school bombing and the assassination of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The delegation's visit occurs as the US tightens economic pressure and considers further military action, while regional mediators are pushing for a diplomatic end to the crisis.

President Donald Trump inaugurated a new White House helicopter landing pad on Monday. He cut a ribbon with gold scissors and posed with officials in construction attire to project normalcy. Major television networks boycotted coverage because CNN was denied access to the event. The noise from the waiting helicopter prevented Trump from answering shouted questions before he departed for New York. Trump had previously highlighted the helipad, featuring granite and the presidential seal, as an impressive feature for visiting dignitaries like Chinese President Xi Jinping.

First Lady Melania Trump will lead cultural diplomacy events during the upcoming three-day state visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping and his wife, Peng Liyuan, from September 23 to 25. This marks the Chinese couple's first White House visit since 2015. The itinerary includes extensive ceremonial honors and cultural exchanges aimed at highlighting Sino-American relations. Melania Trump, along with President Donald Trump, will officially welcome Peng and Xi to the White House on Thursday. President Trump will also provide a rare presidential airport welcome for Xi upon his arrival at Joint Base Andrews the evening prior.

CNN, Politico, and MS NOW announced their intention to sue the Trump administration after their journalists were banned from White House grounds and had their press credentials revoked. The outlets stated in a joint statement that the ban was imposed "without notice or process" because the administration "objected to our reporting." They believe this action threatens press freedom and the public's right to independent journalism. The lawsuit, to be filed in the US District Court for the District of Columbia, aims to protect First Amendment rights. President Trump stated the ban targets "fake news," which he described as a threat to national security, and not the free press, which he claims to cherish.

White House press credentials for reporters from CNN, MS NOW, and Politico were confiscated, preventing them from accessing the White House. A Secret Service agent informed a CNN reporter her badge was deactivated, and a Politico reporter was denied entry and had her pass revoked. The affected media outlets have condemned the decision, asserting it infringes upon their constitutional rights to free speech and a free press. While President Trump did not cite specific reporting, he stated the action was due to "cumulative stories over the last few years." The outlets have vowed to defend their First Amendment rights and the role of independent journalism.

On September 19, 2026, journalists from CNN, MS NOW, and Politico were denied access to the White House, with their press credentials deactivated or confiscated. This action followed President Donald Trump's announcement that these three news organizations would be barred from the White House, citing their reporting as "fake news." Reporters from CNN and MS NOW confirmed they were turned away, and Politico stated their reporter was denied entry and had her access pass confiscated. The White House Correspondents' Association noted Trump himself described the action as a "ban on the free press." Press freedom advocates and legal experts have raised concerns about potential First Amendment violations, referencing a 1977 federal appeals court ruling regarding arbitrary denial of access to credentialed journalists.

President Donald Trump announced on his social media platform, Truth Social, that CNN, MS NOW, and Politico are banned from the White House, citing "reporting FAKE NEWS!" as the reason. Trump accused these outlets of consistently writing or reporting fiction or lies about his administration and stated that others might follow. He also suggested the ban was due to the outlets "purposely writ[ing] negative news" and seeking to "diminish the Republicans and a Republican administration." CNN denounced the move, asserting their right to report without government interference and calling a ban an "illegal assault" on constitutional rights.

President Trump has escalated his conflict with the news media following a week of setbacks, including the Federal Reserve raising interest rates against his wishes and a judge ordering his administration to provide 30 days' notice before altering the Kennedy Center. These events, coupled with record-low approval ratings, indicate political challenges for the president. Trump's latest actions against three news outlets raise legal questions regarding the First Amendment's protection of press freedom. The targeted outlets intend to sue, challenging the unprecedented move which follows previous instances of the administration limiting media access, such as revoking Jim Acosta's credentials and temporarily suspending other reporters' passes, actions that were later blocked by courts.

The White House on Saturday revoked press credentials for journalists from CNN, MS Now, and Politico, implementing a ban announced by President Donald Trump. The news outlets reported their reporters had their press passes confiscated when attempting to access the White House grounds. These organizations have indicated they may challenge the ban, asserting it violates the First Amendment's protections for free speech and a free press. CNN described the action as an "illegal assault" on its right to conduct journalism without government interference, while MS Now and Politico stated their intention to defend their First Amendment rights and the role of independent journalism. President Trump had previously accused these outlets of reporting "FAKE NEWS" and "FICTION and LIES" in their coverage of him.