Witkoff contacted Iran after US strikes, communication grows more difficult
Photo: Steve Witkoff (Getty Images)
Trump’s special representative for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, has been in contact with Iran following recent US strikes. However, one key factor is reportedly hindering the negotiations, according to The Times of Israel and CNN.
According to reports, Steve Witkoff has been in communication with his Iranian counterparts following the US strikes on Iran that took place on Sunday.
However, maintaining effective dialogue has become increasingly difficult since Iran’s supreme leader, ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is currently in hiding.
CNN reports that US officials believe Khamenei must approve any major diplomatic move.
Two sources stated that as a result, both direct and indirect communication between the US and Iran has largely come to a standstill.
Background
On the night of June 22, the United States struck three Iranian nuclear sites located in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. The US military used bunker-busting bombs available only in the American arsenal.
In retaliation, on June 23, Iran attacked the Al Udeid air base in Qatar, which also serves as the headquarters of US Central Command (CENTCOM).
US President Donald Trump has already responded to the attack, calling it weak and thanking Iran for the warning. Trump stated that there were no casualties among American or Qatari troops and minimal damage overall.
