US special envoy Steve Witkoff voiced hope for a ‘diplomatic resolution’ with Iran amid Washington’s threats of taking military action against the Islamic Republic, according to Al Arabiya.
Addressing the Israeli-American Council conference in Miami on Thursday, Witkoff was asked whether a military strike against Tehran is imminent.
“I hope there’s a diplomatic resolution. I really do,” he replied.
Diplomatic Agreement with Iran
The US envoy to the Middle East highlighted four key issues in the diplomatic resolution with Iran: nuclear enrichment, reductions in Tehran’s missile inventory, the nuclear material already in its possession, and the activities of its proxies.
“If they want to come back to the League of Nations, we can solve those four problems diplomatically, then that would be a great resolution. The alternative is a bad one,” he added.
US Sanctions
On Thursday, Washington announced sanctions against Iranian security officials and financial networks, accusing them of driving a brutal crackdown on peaceful demonstrations while laundering billions in oil revenues.
“The United States stands firmly behind the Iranian people in their call for freedom and justice,” Bessent said in a statement, noting that the action was taken at President Donald Trump‘s direction.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent unveiled the measures in response to the largest anti-government protests ever witnessed in Tehran.
However, the demonstrations have increased in recent days due to sweeping crackdown and an internet blackout that has stretched nearly a week.
Moreover, the Treasury blacklisted 18 individuals and entities accused of running “shadow banking” networks that launder Iranian oil revenues through front companies in the UAE, Singapore, and Britain.
Through cover firms and exchange houses, these networks channel billions of dollars each year at a time when Iranian citizens face deepening economic hardship.
Asked if he had a message for the Iranian people, Witkoff replied: ‘They’re incredibly courageous, and we stand with them.’
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