NEW YORK, September 22, 2026 — US President Donald Trump participated in a multilateral meeting with leaders from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) during the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, as regional security and the conflict involving Iran remained major issues on the diplomatic agenda.
Gulf Security Takes Center Stage
Trump’s meeting with GCC representatives came amid heightened tensions in the Middle East. The ongoing conflict involving Iran and attacks affecting Gulf countries and regional shipping routes have increased pressure for diplomatic discussions among the United States and its regional partners.
The GCC includes Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman. Their leaders and representatives have been engaged in discussions about regional security and the economic effects of the conflict.
Trump Holds Talks With Regional Leaders
The meeting formed part of Trump’s busy schedule during his two-day visit to the UN General Assembly. Reuters reported that Iran was expected to be a central subject of Trump’s discussions with Gulf Cooperation Council leaders.
Trump also held or planned separate meetings with several international leaders during his visit, including representatives from Ukraine, the United Kingdom, Japan and Iraq.
Iran Conflict Remains a Major Issue
The meeting took place shortly after Trump’s UN address, in which he discussed the conflict with Iran and said his administration was seeking a deal while warning of further military action if an agreement could not be reached.
Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, meanwhile, called for diplomacy and said the Gulf crisis could be addressed through negotiations and efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to maritime navigation.
Regional Diplomacy Continues at UNGA
The gathering was part of broader diplomatic activity surrounding the 81st UN General Assembly, where leaders have been discussing conflicts in the Middle East, Ukraine and other international issues.
On the same day, the foreign ministers of Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Egypt also met in New York and called for dialogue and diplomacy while discussing regional security and attacks affecting Saudi Arabia.
supernews.pk