Washington tightens stance while Tehran denies capitulation amid rising regional tensions.
U.S. President Donald Trump is questioning why Iran has not moved toward a nuclear agreement despite mounting pressure, according to his Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff.
Speaking to Fox News in an interview with Lara Trump, Witkoff said the President is “curious” why Tehran has not agreed to terms given the significant American naval and air presence in the region.
“He’s curious as to why they haven’t… I don’t want to use the word capitulated, but why they haven’t capitulated,” Witkoff remarked, underscoring the administration’s expectation that pressure would produce concessions.
Washington’s Red Line: “Zero Enrichment”
Witkoff made clear that Trump’s position includes a strict red line — Iran must agree to “zero enrichment” of uranium. U.S. officials argue that Tehran has enriched uranium well beyond civilian energy requirements, raising proliferation concerns.
The administration maintains that negotiations remain open but are backed by credible military deterrence. Carrier strike groups, advanced fighter aircraft, and missile defense systems have been deployed across the Middle East as talks continue.
Tehran Pushes Back
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi rejected reports that Washington formally demanded a permanent halt to enrichment. Speaking to MS NOW, Araghchi stated that Iran has not offered suspension and claimed the U.S. side has not officially insisted on zero enrichment.
Tehran continues to assert that its nuclear program is peaceful and within its sovereign rights, while resisting what it characterizes as coercive diplomacy.
Pressure and Uncertainty
Trump recently urged Iran to “better negotiate a fair deal,” while referencing figures cited by opposition groups regarding casualties during domestic unrest — numbers that remain disputed.
With diplomatic channels active but fragile, and military assets firmly in place, the standoff appears to be entering a decisive phase. Whether pressure forces compromise or deepens confrontation may determine the next chapter in U.S.–Iran relations.
