- February 22, 2026
- 10:56 am
- Middle East
On February 22, 2026, the US President’s special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, stated in a late-night interview with Fox News that Donald Trump does not understand why Iran is not making concessions despite the massive military pressure from Washington.
The discussion is about the negotiations on the Iranian nuclear program, which have stalled in recent weeks. At the center of the disagreements is Tehran’s refusal to discuss zero uranium enrichment and the winding down of the missile program.
What Witkoff said about the US President’s position
According to Witkoff, he spoke with Trump in the morning before the interview. The President, as the envoy noted, does not appear disheartened but is clearly surprised by the lack of concessions from Tehran.
“He is curious to know why they have not capitulated,” Witkoff stated, clarifying that he does not want to use that exact word, but the essence of the question remains the same: why, under the pressure of the US Air Force and Navy, has Iran not come to a compromise formula.
The US has concentrated significant forces in the region. However, it seems that the Iranian leadership does not perceive military signals as an inevitable prelude to a real conflict.
The nuclear program as a key issue
One of Washington’s main demands remains Iran’s refusal to enrich uranium. Tehran categorically disagrees with “zero enrichment,” viewing it as a strategic concession.
According to diplomatic sources, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi did not even open the envelope with the corresponding proposals from the American side.
In fact, the negotiations are blocked around one issue: is Iran ready to give up part of its nuclear infrastructure in exchange for reduced pressure and possible easing of sanctions.
Why Iran is not afraid of war
The calculation on political reality in the US
Reuters agency recently quoted Trump’s advisers who are dissuading him from a direct military operation against Iran. Their argument is serious domestic political risks.
According to part of the American establishment, war could lead to losing control of Congress in the midterm elections. If both chambers fall under Democratic control, it would pave the way for a new round of pressure on the White House, including impeachment attempts.
Iranian negotiators are likely taking this political dynamic into account. In Tehran, they may assume that the White House is not interested in escalation, which would hit the president’s electoral positions.
Military pressure without immediate strike
The deployment of carrier groups and aviation is a strong signal. But without specific military actions, it can be perceived as a tool of pressure rather than the inevitable start of a conflict.
This logic, according to some analysts, explains the absence of the “saving concession” that Trump is counting on.
For Israel, the situation has direct strategic significance. Iran’s nuclear program is viewed in Jerusalem as a threat to national security. Any decision—diplomatic or military—will inevitably affect the entire region.
NANews — Israel News | Nikk.Agency continues to analyze the negotiation process between the US and Iran, considering the impact on Middle East security and possible scenarios for developments.
What will happen next: the coming days as a point of tension
According to Witkoff, Iran’s position on uranium enrichment may become clearer in the coming days. The White House expects a clear signal—either readiness for compromise or continuation of a hard line.
If Tehran maintains its current position, Washington will have to choose between increasing sanctions pressure and further demonstrating military force.
At this stage, it is not only about negotiations but also about the strategic balance in the region. The outcome of the dialogue will determine the security architecture of the Middle East for the coming years.
For now, the main question remains open: does Iran truly not fear war—or is it simply confident that it will not happen.
