Obama to UN General Assembly: Palestinians deserve a state of their own

U.S. President Barack Obama told the United Nations on Wednesday that Iran and North Korea could win greater opportunities by abiding by their nuclear commitments, but risked more pressure if they continue to flout international law.

"There is a future of greater opportunity for the people of these nations if their governments meet their obligations. But if they continue down a path that is outside international law, they must be met with greater pressure and isolation," Obama said in a speech at the U.N. General Assembly.

On the Palestinian state bid, Obama said that the Palestinians deserved a state of their own, but that this would only be achieved through talks with Israel. 

"I am convinced that there is no short cut to the end of a conflict that has endured for decades. Peace will not come through statements and resolutions at the U.N.," Obama said in a speech to the U.N. General Assembly.

"Ultimately, it is Israelis and Palestinians -- not us -- who must reach agreement on the issues that divide them: on borders and security; on refugees and Jerusalem," the text of his speech said.

-Reuters