U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff speaking on behalf of the Trump administration—stated that the United States is not currently in talks with Iran, although “we have had contact with them.”
Speaking in an interview with CNBC on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Witkoff said, “Iran is a deal that needs to happen.”
When asked for details, he avoided a direct answer but reiterated that a deal remains possible.
Protests in Iran began on December 28, 2025, in the markets of the capital, Tehran, by traders angry over poor economic conditions, including high inflation and the sharp devaluation of the currency.
The unrest quickly escalated into widespread demonstrations against authorities due to deteriorating living standards and the suppression of basic freedoms.
U.S. President Donald Trump initially warned that the United States was “ready and armed” to act if Iranian security forces killed protesters. Later, he pledged “very strong action” if Iran continued executing demonstrators.
Trump then said he had personally chosen not to order military strikes against Iran, attributing this decision to Tehran reportedly canceling hundreds of planned executions.
In another interview in Davos, Witkoff told Arab News that Iran must come to the negotiating table.
“This [negotiation] has to happen,” he said. “It is important. If Iran moves, the region moves, so we need to clarify this.”
Witkoff insisted that the Middle East is moving in the right direction.
“I think what is happening is extraordinary. Everyone, I think, is working together toward peace,” he said. “Everyone is engaged with President Trump’s ideas for border peace, and I have high hopes.”
