Representatives of Donald Trump are reportedly preparing for diplomatic engagement with Iran, despite the former president’s recent assessment of nearing operational goals against the country.
Trump Signals Potential De-escalation
On Friday, former U.S. President Donald Trump stated via Truth Social that the United States is close to achieving its objectives in operations against Iran, suggesting a possible reduction in military intensity regarding the “terrorist regime.”
U.S. officials anticipate another two to three weeks of fighting. Simultaneously, Trump’s advisors are initiating groundwork for diplomatic efforts.
Key Players in Potential Negotiations
According to unofficial reports, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law and advisor, are involved in preparing for potential talks.
Proposed Terms for a Potential Agreement
Axios reports that any agreement to end the conflict would need to address the opening of the Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s enriched uranium reserves, and a long-term agreement regarding Iran’s nuclear program, ballistic missiles, and support for proxy forces in the region.
Indirect Communication Channels
While direct contact between the U.S. and Iran has been limited in recent days, Egypt, Qatar, and the United Kingdom have been relaying messages between the two countries. Egypt and Qatar have informed the U.S. and Israel that Iran is interested in negotiations, but under strict conditions.
Tehran is reportedly demanding a ceasefire, guarantees against future conflict, and reparations.
U.S. Demands and Iranian Reservations
The U.S. seeks commitments from Iran to halt its missile program for five years, cease uranium enrichment, decommission reactors at Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordo, and allow external monitoring of equipment that could contribute to nuclear weapons development.
Additionally, the U.S. wants Iran to enter arms control treaties with regional countries, limiting missile stockpiles to one thousand, and cease funding organizations like Hezbollah, the Houthis, and Hamas.
Axios notes that Tehran has previously rejected several of these demands, with Iranian leaders expressing difficulty negotiating with a president who has previously engaged in talks only to later authorize attacks on Iran.
Internal Assessments and Mediation Efforts
The Trump team is currently determining the best contact within Iran for negotiations and identifying a suitable mediator. While Oman previously held this role, Qatar is being considered as an alternative, though Qatar is reportedly willing to assist on a secondary level.
Trump has stated he is not opposed to talks but is currently uninterested in Iranian demands for a ceasefire or reparations. Discussions regarding the potential return of Iran’s frozen assets are possible.