Mohammed Yousry, editor at Voice of Emirates News Agency, Cairo office, is a journalist and researcher specializing in Islamic heritage and extremist groups.
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American negotiations with Iran (photo / agencies)
Washington – In a move reflecting Washington’s desire to resolve the thorny Iranian file, informed sources announced that Nick Stewart, a former State Department official, has joined the U.S. negotiating team. Obviously, in May 2026, the administration is seeking to strengthen its diplomatic front with familiar faces from the first Trump era, as Stewart’s appointment was personally recommended by Jared Kushner. These developments follow the “stumble” of previous talks led by Vice President JD Vance in Islamabad, prompting Washington to reshuffle its negotiating deck once again.
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“The Tough Tasks Team”: Kushner and Witkoff Enlist Stewart’s Expertise
Reports clarified that Stewart’s addition to a team including Kushner and Steve Witkoff aims to leverage his extensive experience in nuclear non-proliferation and strategic policies. Accordingly, Stewart is viewed as a vital technical and political link, especially given his years at defense-focused research centers. Clearly, the current bet is on reaching a new understanding with Tehran that bypasses the obstacles of previous rounds—a task requiring “long-term stamina” and insider knowledge of Iranian politics.
“Where are the Tech Experts?”: Congress Questions “Technical Support”
Despite the political welcome, the absence of representatives from the National Nuclear Security Administration and the Department of Energy has sparked a “storm” of questions in Congress. As a result, lawmakers demanded clarification on who provides technical advice in this complex file, warning that political expertise alone might not suffice for sensitive nuclear aspects. For their part, U.S. officials assured that a multidisciplinary team is working behind the scenes to support negotiators with necessary data, ensuring a blend of “political cunning” and “technical precision” against Iranian nuclear ambitions.
