Big Picture: President Raisi's expressed Iran's willingness to return to a now-dormant nuclear deal which works to prevent Iran — one of four U.S.-designated state sponsors of terrorism — from developing its nuclear program through diplomacy. However, Pres. Raisi questioned the trustworthiness of the U.S. to stay committed to the deal, claiming the U.S. "trampled" on the previous deal (referring to when the U.S. withdrew from the nuclear accord in 2018 under former Pres. Trump).

• The Associated Press reports: "European Union officials have warned the window for securing a nuclear deal is about to close. In exchange for agreeing to the terms of the new nuclear deal, Iran would receive relief on economic sanctions ..."
• Pres. Raisi called sanctions on his country "weapons of mass destruction" (the same term used for nuclear weapons — which some believe Iran is developing — hence the reason for the sanctions).
• Shortly after Pres. Raisi's spoke, Pres. Biden delivered his address and said the U.S. "will not allow Iran to acquire a nuclear weapon."
• Pres. Raisi said Iran "rejects the double standards of some governments regarding human rights," and mentioned the behavior of other countries. He did not mention the protests taking place in Iran over the death of a 22-year-old woman who was reportedly violently arrested after not properly wearing a hijab (a head covering common in Islamic countries).

As Iran cracks down on protests, its president assails 'double standards.' (The New York Times)

Iran says it's ready for new nuclear deal but asks if US is (The Associated Press)

United Nations General Assembly 2022 (SmartHER News)