Donald Trump is appointing his Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, to address U.S. concerns regarding Iran, indicating a potential willingness to explore diplomatic solutions before increasing pressure on Tehran. Witkoff, a real estate investor instrumental in securing the ceasefire in Gaza, is expected to lead initiatives related to Iran’s nuclear program as part of a broader aim by Trump to “stop the wars” in the region.
In 2018, Trump withdrew the U.S. from Iran’s nuclear agreement with global powers, subsequently imposing strict sanctions and warning that any aggression from Iran could lead to severe consequences. During the transition period, Trump’s team considered reinstating the “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran through new sanctions or tighter enforcement of existing measures.
However, early meetings imply that Trump and his advisors prefer to explore diplomatic options to avoid escalating tensions with Iran. Some officials have informed diplomats that Witkoff will be tasked with assessing the possibility of a diplomatic resolution.
A former Israeli official noted that the administration is unlikely to resort to military action at the start of their term without first attempting other approaches, differentiating it from previous strategies.
Historically, various U.S. presidents have assigned senior officials to handle negotiations with Iran, following George W. Bush’s diplomatic outreach regarding Tehran’s nuclear ambitions. It is uncommon for a special envoy to manage both the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and U.S.-Iran relations simultaneously.
Witkoff will primarily focus on implementing the Gaza ceasefire, with Morgan Ortagus, a former State Department spokesperson with Middle East experience, serving as his deputy.
U.S. officials indicate that the specifics of Trump’s strategy toward Iran and Witkoff’s responsibilities are still developing. However, recent appointments suggest a faction within the administration may favor negotiations with Iran and be cautious about military interventions, in contrast to some more hawkish voices advocating for aggressive actions.
The new top Middle East official at the Pentagon, Michael DiMino, previously supported a restrained approach to Iran. Likewise, Elbridge Colby, nominated for under-secretary of defense for policy, has warned against military action against the country. Meanwhile, other officials, including national security adviser Mike Waltz and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, adopt a more aggressive stance.
Regarding Witkoff’s role and the administration’s Iranian strategy, a spokesperson stated that there are no new announcements at this time.
Western observers believe that Iran is facing significant challenges following a multifaceted conflict that has weakened its regional allies, including Hamas and Hezbollah. Although Iran has expressed openness to negotiations, analysts predict that reaching a mutually agreeable deal will be complex. The UN has warned that Iran has notably increased its stock of uranium enriched close to weapons-grade levels.
Trump’s 2018 withdrawal from the nuclear agreement has been a point of contention, and European powers like Britain, France, and Germany are looking to align with the U.S. on strategies as the deal nears expiration.
Iran’s vice-president for strategic affairs recently expressed hope that Trump would approach dealings with Iran with increased seriousness and realism, acknowledging the economic toll on the Iranian populace while rejecting claims that it supports proxy groups in the region.
Witkoff’s potential role in Iranian affairs has raised concerns among hawkish factions in Congress, who fear that his approach may ease pressure on Iran too rapidly while seeking a diplomatic solution.
photo credit: www.ft.com
