Trump Curious Why Iran Hasn’t ‘Capitulated’

Published: 23 February 2026 . The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

U.S. President Donald Trump is publicly questioning why the Islamic Republic of Iran has not yet “capitulated” in the face of mounting American military pressure, according to comments made by his special envoy Steve Witkoff. Witkoff’s remarks — delivered in a televised interview — reflect deep frustration within the Trump administration as nuclear negotiations enter a critical phase amid heightened tensions in the Middle East.

Witkoff, who leads Washington’s nuclear talks with Tehran, said Trump is “curious” why Iran has resisted U.S. demands despite a significant buildup of U.S. forces in the region. “I don’t want to use the word ‘frustrated,’ because he understands he has plenty of alternatives,” Witkoff told Fox News host Lara Trump, the president’s daughter-in-law. “But he’s curious as to why they haven’t… ‘capitulated’.”

The comments came as U.S. and Iranian officials prepared for another round of Geneva talks, mediated by Oman, aimed at reviving negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear programme. Washington has deployed a significant naval and military presence to the region, warning of severe consequences if Iran does not agree to major concessions.

U.S. negotiators want Iran to curb its nuclear activity, particularly enrichment of uranium beyond levels needed for civilian energy, which the United States fears could lead to weapons capability. Trump has ordered an extensive buildup of forces and preparations for a potential multi-week air campaign on Iranian targets, though diplomacy remains ongoing.

Iran, for its part, has rejected Washington’s ultimatums. Tehran argues its nuclear programme is peaceful and insists it will not “capitulate.” Iranian officials have offered some concessions — including the possibility of sending a portion of highly enriched uranium abroad and joining a regional enrichment consortium — but major gaps remain, especially on sanctions relief and broader U.S. demands.

Adding complexity to the standoff, Witkoff also confirmed meeting Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran’s last shah and a vocal critic of the current leadership, at the president’s direction. While details of the meeting were not disclosed, Pahlavi has called for accelerated pressure on Tehran and even suggested U.S. military intervention during recent unrest inside Iran.

The standoff underscores a fraught diplomatic and strategic environment. Iran faces internal volatility, with anti-government protests reigniting amid widespread economic hardship and political repression. At the same time, the United States and its allies are under pressure to secure a deal that prevents nuclear escalation while averting open conflict.

As Washington pushes for stricter compliance from Tehran, Trump’s apparent bewilderment at Iran’s resistance highlights the challenges of applying military leverage in diplomatic negotiations. With both sides scheduled to resume talks this week, the world watches closely for signs of either breakthrough or further escalation.

Read More At>>