Washington, DC – In a new indication of a dramatic shift in the confrontation between Washington and Tehran, US Special Envoy Steve Wittkopf revealed expectations that direct talks with the Iranian side will begin this week. Wittkopf’s remarks coincide with repeated assertions from President Donald Trump that the Iranian regime is now “very keen” to reach an agreement to end the war and avoid further military strikes.
A comprehensive US proposal to end the conflict
Speaking at an economic forum in Miami, Wittkopf explained that the US administration had put a 15-point plan on the negotiating table and was awaiting a formal response from Tehran.
The special envoy described the plan as comprehensive and capable of resolving all outstanding issues between the two sides if met with serious Iranian engagement. He added, “We believe there will be meetings this week, and we certainly hope so.”
Signs of “good faith” in the Strait of Hormuz
In reviewing signs of a breakthrough, Witkoff pointed to what he considered “very positive” developments on the ground. He noted that Tehran had allowed 10 oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz without obstruction. The US administration viewed this as a goodwill gesture to pave the way for negotiations. Furthermore, Witkoff emphasized that “the safe passage of the ships is a good indication of the parties’ desire to de-escalate.”
Trump: The Iranians are suffering heavy blows and want a deal.
For his part, President Trump continued to combine military threats with promises of an imminent diplomatic solution. Upon arriving in Miami, he told accompanying journalists that military pressure was beginning to bear fruit. He added, “With regard to Iran, they are being hit very hard. We are talking to them now; they want to make a deal to end this war in the coming weeks.” Observers believe that this combination of “maximum pressure” on the ground and the opening of communication channels through the “15-point plan” presents Tehran with two equally unpalatable options: either accept the American conditions that would dismantle its offensive capabilities, or continue a military confrontation directly targeting its industrial and defense infrastructure.
