President Donald Trump is reportedly curious why Iran has not yet "capitulated" to US demands to curb its nuclear program, especially as Washington increases its military presence in the Middle East. Special envoy Steve Witkoff stated that the President questions why Iran, under such pressure, has not approached the US to renounce its pursuit of nuclear weapons.
Witkoff expressed that Iran's enrichment of uranium, now at 60% fissile purity, brings them potentially just a week away from possessing bomb-making material, a situation deemed highly dangerous. The US seeks Iran's commitment to abandoning enriched uranium, ceasing support for regional militants, and accepting limits on its missile program.
Tehran maintains its nuclear activities are peaceful but is open to some restrictions in exchange for sanctions relief, rejecting linkage to missile programs or support for armed groups. Meanwhile, a senior Iranian official indicated ongoing differences with the US regarding sanctions relief in ongoing talks.
Additionally, Witkoff confirmed meeting with Iranian opposition figure Reza Pahlavi, son of the late Shah, at President Trump's direction. Pahlavi, who lives in exile, has previously suggested that US military intervention could save lives in Iran and advised against prolonged negotiations with the current Iranian leadership.