Trump Meets Arab and Islamic Leaders to Discuss Reducing Regional Tensions

President Donald Trump expressed optimism about the possibility of reaching an agreement with Iran during a meeting with leaders and representatives from Arab and Islamic countries in New York, as diplomatic efforts intensify at the UN General Assembly to de-escalate tensions and restart communication between Washington and Tehran.

Arab and Islamic Meeting

Trump held the meeting on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, with participation from leaders and representatives of the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Egypt, Turkey, Iraq, Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon.

The meeting discussed developments in the security situation in the Middle East, efforts to reduce tensions, the impact of conflicts on regional and international stability, energy supplies, and the economy, as well as ways to advance diplomatic solutions.

U.S. envoy Tom Bradlee said after the meeting that the discussion focused on attempts to achieve a temporary ceasefire that would pave the way for a broader diplomatic process.

During the meeting, Trump spoke about ongoing communications with Tehran, stating there is "a significant momentum" toward reaching an agreement, and expressing his belief that the crisis could be resolved quickly if diplomatic efforts succeed.

The meeting followed nearly three hours of talks in New York between U.S. and Iranian officials, involving U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.

Trump described the meeting as "excellent" and "very productive," noting plans for another round of talks in the near future.

These moves come amid regional mediation efforts aimed at narrowing the gap between Washington and Tehran, as the war continues for nearly seven months and the Strait of Hormuz remains at the heart of disputes between the two sides.

The meeting also addressed broader regional issues, including proposed arrangements for a post-war phase and ways to enhance regional security and stability, while Trump emphasized the importance of continuing cooperation with Arab and Islamic nations on regional crises.