Steve H. Witztorf, the U.S. special envoy for the Middle East, pivoted to a hardline stance just a day after showing a relatively flexible position regarding nuclear negotiations with Iran.
On the 15th (local time), Steve H. Witztorf stated on X (formerly Twitter), "The final agreement must establish a framework for peace, stability, and prosperity in the Middle East," adding, "Iran must halt and eliminate its nuclear enrichment and weaponization programs."
He continued, "(Negotiations must be) sustainable, robust, and fair," stating, "This is what the president has asked of me."
Such strong remarks contradict his earlier comments in an interview with Fox News on the 14th, where he suggested limiting uranium enrichment instead of advocating for the complete abolition of Iran's nuclear program.
In that interview, Witztorf had stated, "Iran does not need to enrich (uranium) beyond 3.67%."
The 3.67% mentioned here refers to the enrichment limit established under the Iran nuclear agreement (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, or JCPOA), which was abandoned by the Trump administration, suggesting a possibility for negotiations based on enrichment levels rather than complete suspension of the nuclear program.
However, following backlash from hardline conservatives in the U.S. and from Israeli officials regarding his remarks, it appears Witztorf has reversed his position.
The limitation on enrichment levels is far removed from the so-called "Libya-style agreement" sought by hardliners in Israel, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This would involve handing over materials, equipment, and data necessary for nuclear development, followed by verification of denuclearization and then compensation.
President Trump has intensified pressure on nuclear negotiations with Iran, reminding that Iran "can never have nuclear weapons." However, it is reported that he has not publicly mentioned specific negotiation goals.
On the 12th, Witztorf and the U.S. delegation met with Iran in Oman, and they are scheduled to meet again in Rome, Italy, on the 19th.