US President Donald Trump is puzzled by Iran's resilience despite increased US military pressure. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff revealed that Trump wonders why Iran hasn’t "capitulated" amid the buildup in the Middle East.
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During a Fox News interview on Saturday, Witkoff mentioned Trump's curiosity after he warned Iran of limited military action if no agreement was reached regarding its nuclear program. The US and European allies suspect Iran of aiming to develop nuclear weapons, a claim Tehran denies.
Anti-government protests occurred at Iranian universities over the weekend. These are the largest since January's crackdown, which reportedly resulted in thousands of deaths. Witkoff stated that although Trump understands his options, he is puzzled by Iran's lack of cooperation under intense US military presence.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressed hope for a diplomatic resolution, describing negotiations as "a win-win game." He told CBS News that elements of a potential deal are being discussed. Araghchi mentioned that a draft agreement would be submitted to Witkoff shortly.
On 17 February, US and Iranian officials engaged in indirect talks in Geneva, Switzerland, and reported progress. Oman, mediator of the talks, announced a new round of negotiations in Geneva on Thursday. Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi expressed optimism for finalizing the deal on social media.
Despite advancements in talks, Trump stated on Thursday that the outcome would be clear within ten days, hinting at either a deal or military action.
The US has significantly increased its military presence in the region. This includes deploying the USS Gerald R Ford, USS Abraham Lincoln, destroyers, combat ships, and fighter jets.
BBC-verified footage showed protests at Tehran’s Sharif University of Technology. Demonstrators clashed with government supporters, also seen at other Tehran universities and Ferdowsi University in Mashhad. Some protesters displayed the pre-1979 Lion and Sun flag, chanting "Javid Shah" ("long live the king").
Counter-protests involved burning US and Israeli flags and clashes between opposing groups, particularly at Amirkabir University of Technology. Students gathered in memory of those killed in previous government crackdowns.
The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (Hrana) confirmed at least 7,015 deaths during the recent protests, including 6,508 protesters and 226 children. They are investigating additional deaths. Iranian officials reported 3,100 fatalities, claiming most were security personnel or bystanders.
President Trump has historically backed the protesters, previously suggesting US support was imminent.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 22 Feb 2026