The Trump administration is concerned about Steve Witkoff’s ability to deal with Iran, Hamas, and Russia due to his handling of previous negotiations. Insiders described him as a “nice guy but a bumbling idiot” who should not be working alone.
Witkoff was criticized for assuming that Iranian and Hamas leaders are motivated by a desire to live and can be reasoned with through direct engagement. Experts argue that this approach is misguided, given the autocratic nature of these regimes.
Others fear Witkoff’s plate is too full, and he needs more support in dividing time between two demanding negotiations. The Iran issue is complex, and Iranian officials have expressed “extreme caution” about the success of nuclear talks.
US President Donald Trump has signaled confidence in clinching a new pact with Iran to block its path to a nuclear bomb. However, former advisors John Bolton and Marco Rubio expressed skepticism, with Bolton calling Witkoff’s discussions with Iran “a waste of oxygen.” The US Secretary of State has stated that Iran must stop enriching uranium under a deal.
The US and Iran agreed to continue nuclear talks next week, despite concerns about the negotiations’ success.
Source: https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-852204