Trump Curious Why Iran Has Not Backed Down, Says Witkoff

In a recent US TV interview, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff shared that President Donald Trump remains curious about why Iran has not yet capitulated or shown flexibility in its stance, especially following the deployment of advanced US aircraft and naval vessels near its borders. Witkoff noted that the President is trying to understand the reason for Iran’s refusal to disarm or yield under such significant military and economic pressure.

Warning of the severity of the current situation, Witkoff stated that Iran has reached over 60% uranium enrichment—far exceeding the levels required for civilian nuclear energy—and is now likely only a week away from being able to produce industrial-grade material for a nuclear bomb.

He emphasized that Trump had clearly identified uranium enrichment as a red line before the start of talks, reinforcing the administration’s position that Iran will never be permitted to build a nuclear weapon. Additionally, Witkoff confirmed that, acting on instructions from the President, he has met with Iranian opposition leader Reza Pahlavi to discuss the ongoing situation.

Iranian Foreign Minister’s Reaction

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responded directly to Steve Witkoff’s recent statements, rejecting the notion that US military pressure would force a change in Tehran’s position. Speaking from Tehran, Araghchi stated: “We are Iranians; we do not surrender.” He further emphasized that while Iran remains open to diplomacy, it will not negotiate under the threat of coercion or “dictation.” Araghchi dismissed the “maximum pressure” tactics described by Witkoff, asserting that the Iranian people will never succumb to bullying or sacrifice their national sovereignty.