Trump rejects combining US-China AI efforts

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.

President Donald Trump stated that the United States will not slow down its development of artificial intelligence, dismissing concerns about its risks as "hoaxes." He expressed that the US should not cooperate with China on AI technology, asserting that the US is currently leading in this field and intends to maintain that advantage. Trump's remarks came after a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, despite calls from US lawmakers, tech CEOs, and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for regulation and guardrails on AI development due to potential global risks. The president likened fears surrounding AI to other issues he has previously labeled as "hoaxes," such as climate change and the Russia investigation.

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.

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.

President Donald Trump described his talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping during Xi's state visit to Washington as "very productive." The leaders agreed to continue discussions on artificial intelligence (AI) and technology transfer licensing. Trump expressed optimism about future developments, stating "tremendous things will be happening." He also noted Xi's apparent preference for renaming AI "super intelligence," a concept Trump had previously introduced at the UN General Assembly. The visit included a state dinner attended by prominent tech figures. Despite ongoing strategic rivalry in AI, both leaders have reportedly resisted calls to slow its development. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer highlighted the importance of establishing communication channels on AI as a key challenge for both nations.

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.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a defiant speech at the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday, defending Israel's actions in Gaza and on the West Bank. The speech alienated international critics, with delegates from many countries walking out before he spoke, highlighting Israel's global isolation. However, Netanyahu's remarks were intended to appeal to his domestic base ahead of upcoming parliamentary elections, aiming to energize supporters angered by international criticism of Israel. He accused critics like Turkey and Qatar of tyranny and funding "toxic media," and labeled New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani an antisemite. While international observers and some analysts condemned the speech as containing "baseless lies" and aimed at boosting his election campaign, allies in Israel praised his defiant tone.

Iran has proposed a seven-day plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and restart nuclear talks, contingent on the US lifting asset freezes, permitting oil exports, and securing a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. Iranian diplomats presented this accelerated timeline, based on a previous memorandum of understanding, to US envoy Steve Witkoff. The deal aims to relieve global energy market pressure and could offer President Trump a political advantage before the US midterm elections. However, Iran expresses doubt that the US will meet these demands, particularly regarding reining in Israel. The proposed route for ships would primarily pass through Iranian waters, raising concerns for Saudi Arabia.

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.

Despite a decade of trade disputes, including tariffs and export controls, the US and China have repeatedly avoided complete rupture. This pattern continued with the recent White House meeting between the presidents, as decoupling has proven economically costly for both nations, with bilateral trade declining significantly. China's leverage, particularly in rare earth minerals, influences US restraint, leading Washington to prioritize stability over confrontation. While the US seeks a mutually advantageous economic relationship, underlying grievances regarding Chinese trade practices remain unresolved, and China is not expected to change its policies.

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.

At the UN General Assembly, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian accused the U.S. and Israel of attacking Iran, portraying his country as a victim. Foreign policy expert Behnam Ben Taleblu suggested President Trump would likely react with a "smirk," believing he holds leverage. Trump had previously warned Iran of destruction or a deal. Despite the sharp rhetoric exchanged between the two leaders, Taleblu noted their diplomatic positions are predictable. Behind the scenes, U.S. officials, including Jared Kushner, held discussions with Iranian officials, described as productive by the U.S. Both nations appear to be using these talks to their advantage while exploring potential diplomatic paths amidst ongoing tensions.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, in a pre-recorded UN address, declared that the Palestinian people are experiencing a critical historical juncture. He accused Israel of conducting a "genocidal war" in Gaza and fragmenting the West Bank through settlement expansion, warning of increasing "settler terrorism." Abbas stated that Israel's actions threaten not only the two-state solution but the very existence of Palestinians in their homeland. His speech was delivered via video after the Palestinian delegation was denied US visas, an action Abbas deemed a breach of US host country obligations. He also called for the implementation of a US-backed peace plan for Gaza and reaffirmed plans for legislative elections on November 28.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended his country's military actions in the Middle East during a UN General Assembly speech, vowing to continue fighting and calling delegates who walked out "moral cowards." He rejected accusations of genocide in Gaza. Earlier, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, speaking via video link, accused Israel of policies threatening Palestinian existence and jeopardizing the two-state solution, detailing killing, destruction, and a "genocidal war" in Gaza. Abbas was denied a US entry visa, preventing his in-person address.

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Washington, DC, extending a trade truce that paused punishing tariffs. The extension, agreed upon before Xi's state visit, delays a ban on rare-earth exports from China and includes an agreement for China to purchase more US soybeans. While some analysts view this as a useful interim step towards a more durable deal, others describe it as "transactional theatre" and "pure optics" aimed at improving Trump's political standing before upcoming US midterm elections. Despite the truce, deeper strategic rivalries persist between the two nations, encompassing competition in AI, rare-earth metals, and geopolitical issues like Taiwan and the Iran war. The short duration of the extensions suggests a permanent trade deal remains elusive.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is addressing the United Nations General Assembly at a critical juncture for both his political career and Israel's relationship with the UN. Facing intensifying international criticism, including accusations of genocide and war crimes in Gaza and the West Bank, Netanyahu is also contending with declining domestic support ahead of upcoming elections. Analysts suggest his UN address, a regular event for him, serves to project an image of defiance to his Israeli audience, potentially influencing public perception. Historically, Israeli leaders have portrayed their UN engagement as a stance against perceived hostility from the international body, which has frequently served as a platform for criticism of Israel's policies in the occupied Palestinian territories.

Benjamin Netanyahu is set to deliver a speech at the UN on Thursday, aiming to highlight Israel's achievements amidst growing international condemnation and domestic political challenges. He faces his toughest re-election bid, compounded by ongoing conflicts and settler violence in the West Bank. Internationally, countries like the UK, France, and Canada are considering sanctions on Israeli settlements, with accusations of ethnic cleansing leveled against settlers. Public opinion in the US has also shifted negatively towards Netanyahu's government. Protests are anticipated both at the UN and in New York City. Despite criticism, Israel's UN ambassador defends the government's actions, attributing negative perceptions to misinformation. Netanyahu's speech is intended to address world leaders and his Israeli electorate, projecting a message of control and appealing to right-wing audiences.

At the UN General Assembly, Donald Trump threatened to "annihilate the Islamic republic" of Iran and urged global isolation of Tehran to lower energy prices. Despite this rhetoric, Iranian officials held three hours of talks with US special envoy Steve Witkoff on the sidelines, described as positive by Witkoff. Trump also defended AI development, announced new US military bases in Greenland, criticized the international criminal court, and caused Cuba's delegation to walk out by calling it a "failed state." He also scolded a CNN anchor for covering him. Separately, a Republican senator called for an investigation into Donald Trump Jr.'s wedding potentially being funded by a Russian oligarch.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent met with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in Washington on Wednesday for an unscheduled discussion. This meeting, held at the World Bank headquarters, followed an eight-hour negotiation in New York on Sunday, where both sides agreed to launch an AI dialogue and operationalize a bilateral trade body. Bessent stated the purpose was to address "unfinished business" and achieve strategic stability based on reciprocity and fairness. The talks occur as the US and China continue to negotiate the Busan trade agreement and face uncertainty regarding Chinese businesses accompanying President Xi Jinping on his state visit. Disagreements over potential investment announcements and the Board of Investment are reportedly creating roadblocks for the Chinese business delegation.

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.

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.

At the United Nations General Assembly, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian rebuked US President Donald Trump's threat of annihilation, calling Iran the victim of terrorism. Pezeshkian displayed photos of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and schoolgirls killed in alleged attacks, asserting Iran's resilience against US sanctions and pressure. Despite the defiant tone, Pezeshkian extended an invitation for cooperation and negotiation, stating Iran's desire for regional security. This comes as Trump reported "very productive" meetings with Iranian officials regarding ongoing negotiations. Pezeshkian also criticized the US naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, vowing resistance. Analysts noted the speech signaled an appetite for a diplomatic resolution, though some former US officials felt it lacked concrete proposals for compromise.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian delivered a defiant speech to the UN General Assembly, stating Iran will never "bend the knee" following US President Trump's threat to "annihilate" Iran if a peace deal is not agreed upon. Pezeshkian presented images of civilians, including children, allegedly killed in missile strikes, which the US is investigating. Iran retaliated against US-Israeli air campaigns with missile and drone attacks and disrupted shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, leading to a US blockade of Iranian ports. A preliminary agreement to end the war and reopen the strait collapsed due to resumed Iranian attacks and the reinstated US blockade. Iran's desire to control and collect fees from the Strait of Hormuz remains a point of contention with the US.

As President Xi Jinping prepares for a state visit to the White House to meet President Donald Trump, the US-China trade war, a central policy of Trump's presidency since 2025, has seen significant tariff increases on both sides. Despite these measures, the US trade deficit with China has not decreased, and bilateral trade fell by 29% in 2025. China, meanwhile, has achieved a substantial global trade surplus of $1.2 trillion. The conflict extends beyond tariffs to include sanctions, export restrictions on critical minerals by China, and US curbs on advanced technology exports to Beijing. A tariff truce is set to expire soon, with trade and artificial intelligence competition high on the agenda for the upcoming talks.

At the UN, President Trump stated he has a significant decision regarding Iran, weighing between military action and a peace deal. This contrasted with UN Secretary-General António Guterres' warning about deepening global divisions. Trump also expressed confidence in his ability to resolve the Russia-Ukraine war, predicting a swift conclusion. He downplayed concerns about Artificial Intelligence, renaming it "super intelligence" and asserting US leadership against China. Additionally, Trump signed an agreement with Denmark and Greenland to increase US military presence on the island, reaffirming Greenland's sovereignty while granting the US broad access.

During a UN General Assembly speech, US President Donald Trump urged nations to enforce "complete economic isolation of Iran" to end what he called "Iranian terror" and lower global energy prices. He reiterated threats to "annihilate" Iran if a deal isn't reached, stating his priority is preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Trump also dismissed concerns about artificial intelligence as a "hoax" and announced the US would build two new military bases in Greenland as part of an agreement with Denmark. He defended US foreign policy actions, including the arrest of former Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro and subsequent oil deal. Trump also claimed progress in resolving the war in Ukraine.

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.

Leaders from six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states will meet with US President Donald Trump in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. The meeting occurs as the US-Israel war on Iran nears seven months, significantly impacting GCC economies through disrupted oil and gas exports and threats to navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. GCC nations aim to convey concerns about potential consequences of further US military strikes on Iran and seek to persuade Trump towards de-escalation and concessions to Tehran. They also want to ensure freedom of navigation and address individual predicaments, such as Qatar's curtailed gas shipments and Saudi Arabia's pressure from Houthi advances in Yemen. Trump faces a "big decision" on the war and may seek greater GCC engagement against Iran in exchange for US intervention against Houthi attacks.

Middle Eastern leaders are converging at the UN General Assembly to address escalating regional conflicts, including the war with Iran, Houthi attacks, and the future of Gaza. Key figures from Jordan, Türkiye, Qatar, Egypt, and Israel are expected to speak, with President Trump also scheduled to meet Gulf leaders to discuss the Iran conflict and regional stability. The Iran war has reshaped the region, creating potential for new energy partnerships and closer Israel-Arab cooperation, though Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping pose a new threat to energy supplies. Meanwhile, Arab nations are seeking a political settlement for Gaza, differing with Israel on Palestinian statehood and rejecting forced displacement. Diplomatic divisions are evident, with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to address the assembly via video after being denied a U.S. visa.

During their first meeting at the UN in New York, Donald Trump praised Andy Burnham as a "natural businessman" and suggested the UK's relationship with the US was "more up" than under Keir Starmer, believing Burnham would be a "great prime minister." They discussed various topics including Rolls-Royce, energy, and immigration. However, Trump strongly criticized the UK's decision to give up sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, calling it a "terrible deal" due to their strategic importance. Burnham stated they had established a good connection. Trump also commented on the Iran war and cost of living, and defended his actions regarding journalists.

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.

The United States and China have agreed to establish an official AI dialogue, including a proposed threat-notification system. This agreement was announced following high-level talks in New York on Sunday between US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, and Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng. American officials stated that this new operational channel builds upon earlier discussions held in Beijing. Analysts suggest this dialogue is a pragmatic step towards crisis prevention in their tech competition. However, deep-seated divisions concerning chip access, model distillation, and market dominance may limit its overall impact.

Top US and Chinese officials met in New York on Sunday to discuss a potential "notification mechanism" for AI incidents that could impact national security. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described the talks with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng as "successful" and emphasized the importance of transparency between the two leading AI powers. This meeting precedes a summit between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping later this week. The discussions also addressed operationalizing a process for identifying potential tariff cuts on goods, as a tariff war truce is set to expire soon.

The US has proposed an "AI hotline" to China, a notification mechanism for serious AI incidents threatening national security. This idea was discussed by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng ahead of a summit between Presidents Trump and Xi. The US aims to increase transparency and avoid shared risks in AI development, emphasizing the importance of communication between the two leading AI powers. While China's official response is limited, the proposal comes amid escalating AI competition and warnings from tech leaders about the need for guardrails. This initiative mirrors existing US-China crisis communication channels, such as military hotlines, and aims to manage potential dangers as AI capabilities rapidly advance.