Trump curious why Iran has not 'capitulated', US envoy Witkoff says

February 22, 2026

US President Trump's special envoy expressed the administration's puzzlement over Iran's reluctance to agree to nuclear negotiations despite significant American military pressure in the region. While Trump has threatened limited military strikes if no deal is reached within approximately ten days, Iranian officials indicate they are preparing a draft agreement and remain open to diplomatic solutions. The US has substantially increased its military presence near Iran, deploying multiple aircraft carriers and warships to the Middle East.

Who is affected

Iranian government and negotiating officials, particularly Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi
US President Donald Trump and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff
European allies involved in nuclear negotiations with Iran
Anti-government protesters and pro-government supporters at Iranian universities (Sharif University of Technology, Iran University of Science and Technology, Khajeh Nasir Toosi University, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Amirkabir University of Technology)
At least 7,015 people killed during January's crackdown, including 6,508 protesters, 226 children, and 214 government-affiliated individuals
US military personnel deployed to the Middle East region
Oman, serving as mediator in the negotiations
Iranian citizens more broadly

What action is being taken

The US is building up its military presence in the Middle East, with USS Gerald R Ford and USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carriers, destroyers, combat ships, and fighter jets deployed
US and Iranian negotiators are working on elements of a deal through indirect talks
Iran is preparing a draft of a possible agreement to hand over to Witkoff
Anti-government protests are being staged at multiple Iranian universities
Pro-government counter-protests are occurring at Iranian universities
Oman is mediating negotiations between the US and Iran

Why it matters

This situation represents a critical juncture that could determine whether the standoff over Iran's nuclear program will be resolved diplomatically or escalate to military conflict. The substantial US military buildup signals serious intent behind Trump's threats, while the internal unrest in Iran adds domestic pressure on the government following thousands of deaths in recent crackdowns. The outcome will have significant implications for regional stability in the Middle East, the future of Iran's nuclear program, and international non-proliferation efforts. The ten-day timeline mentioned by Trump creates urgency that could either accelerate a diplomatic breakthrough or lead to military action with potentially widespread consequences.

What's next

The next round of negotiations is set for Geneva this Thursday
Trump indicated the world would find out "over the next, probably, 10 days" whether a deal would be reached or the US would take military action
Iran plans to hand over a draft of a possible agreement to Witkoff in the next few days

Read full article from source: BBC