New York : The United States and Iran appear to be entering a critical new phase of diplomacy after months of conflict, with US special envoy Steve Witkoff departing for fresh negotiations even as President Donald Trump declared that American forces had ” wiped out everything” in Iran during the war.
Trump made the remarks while defending the outcome of the military campaign that erupted earlier this year and pushed the Middle East to the brink of a wider regional confrontation. The president has repeatedly described the operation as a decisive success, arguing that Iran’s military capabilities and strategic infrastructure suffered severe damage.
Witkoff’s latest diplomatic mission comes amid efforts to strengthen the ceasefire framework reached earlier this month. The talks are expected to focus on several unresolved issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief, regional security concerns and the future of maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy shipping routes.
The conflict began after US led strikes targeted Iranian military and nuclear linked sites, prompting Tehran to launch missile and drone attacks in response. The fighting raised fears of a broader war across the Middle East and sent shockwaves through global energy markets.
Although a ceasefire agreement has reduced tensions, major disagreements remain. Iranian officials insist the country remains capable of defending itself and reject claims that its military infrastructure has been completely destroyed. At the same time, divisions within Iran’s leadership have fuelled uncertainty over the long-term durability of any deal.
With diplomats returning to the negotiating table, the coming days could prove decisive in determining whether the ceasefire evolves into a lasting agreement or merely a temporary pause in hostilities.
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