US Special Presidential Envoy Steve Witkoff reinforced the Trump administration’s hard stance on discussions with Iran, emphasising that any solution must be consistent with President Trump’s vision for Middle Eastern peace, stability, and prosperity.
In a statement released on X (previously Twitter), Witkoff stated that “a deal with Iran will only be completed if it is a Trump deal,” emphasising the administration’s demand that Iran cease and eliminate its nuclear enrichment and weaponization efforts. He emphasised the significance of negotiating a “tough, fair deal” to maintain long-term regional stability.
This declaration comes after recent indirect discussions between the United States and Iran in Muscat, Oman, led by Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad al-Busaidi. Both parties regarded the conversations as constructive and respectful, and they agreed to meet again on April 19 to continue the discussion. The American team was led by US envoy Witkoff, with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi representing Tehran. Despite the optimistic tone of the discussions, they were carried out indirectly, with intermediaries conveying messages between the two groups.
President Trump has taken a harsh stance, warning Tehran of serious repercussions if an agreement is not achieved. Speaking from Air Force One, Trump reaffirmed his commitment to preventing Iran from getting nuclear weapons while hoping for a diplomatic outcome. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt shared this attitude, warning that failing to accept US objectives would have serious consequences. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasised that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons is a primary goal in US foreign policy.
The overall geopolitical stakes are considerable. The Trump administration wants to completely destroy Iran’s nuclear program, but Tehran opposes this, claiming that its nuclear operations are for peaceful purposes. These advances come amid heightened tensions and years of mistrust following Trump’s departure from the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018. While some analysts regard these negotiations as a potential breakthrough, others are concerned about Iran’s improved nuclear capabilities and regional aspirations.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Araghchi have indicated a desire to participate in discussion while emphasising the importance of mutual trust and equal conditions. As both parties prepare for the next round of negotiations, the international community is keeping a careful eye on the consequences for nuclear nonproliferation, regional security, and global stability.