US Envoy Witkoff optimistic about comprehensive peace deal with Iran as readiness sensed - CNBC.

US Envoy Witkoff optimistic about comprehensive peace deal with Iran as readiness sensed - CNBC.

US envoy Steve Witkoff expressed optimism about the potential for a comprehensive peace deal with Iran, following the recent ceasefire that ended a series of strikes against the country's nuclear facilities. Witkoff, who appeared on Fox News' "Laura Ingraham Show" on June 24, 2025, stated that preliminary discussions between the US and Iran are already underway, both directly and through intermediaries [1].

Witkoff emphasized that the US is hopeful about the prospects of resuming negotiations to achieve a comprehensive peace deal. He noted that the American position remains that Iran must not resume enriching uranium at all, a stance that differs from the White House's previous vacillations on the issue [1].

The envoy also reaffirmed the administration's assessment that the strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities at Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordo have significantly set back the Islamic Republic's nuclear program. Witkoff stated that the program had been set back years and that the facilities were "completely destroyed," making it almost impossible for Iran to resurrect the program in the near future [1].

Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed Witkoff's assertions, stating that the strikes have placed Iran further away from obtaining a nuclear weapon than before the recent strikes [2]. However, Rubio noted that a full assessment of the damage will take time.

Meanwhile, Iran has been cracking down on alleged spies, executing three men accused of spying for Israel's Mossad. The executions took place in Urmia, a city in northwestern Iran near the Turkish border, as part of the country's ongoing efforts to suppress espionage activities [2].

The recent developments highlight the complex dynamics between the US, Iran, and Israel, with each party pursuing their respective interests while navigating the delicate balance of international relations and security concerns.

References:
[1] https://www.timesofisrael.com/witkoff-us-iran-seeking-peace-deal-strikes-set-tehrans-nuke-program-back-years/
[2] https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/iran-hangs-3-men-for-allegedly-spying-for-israel/story