U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff stated on Tuesday that Tehran must shut down and fully abandon its nuclear enrichment program in order to reach a deal with Washington. His remarks indicate a tougher stance by the U.S. ahead of the next round of talks with Iranian officials.

This statement marks a shift from the previous U.S. position, which suggested a willingness to tolerate Iran's limited uranium enrichment for energy production. Witkoff’s latest comments now suggest a complete reversal of that stance.

In an official statement, Witkoff said, “Any final agreement must create a framework that ensures peace, stability, and prosperity in the Middle East—this means Iran must completely halt and dismantle its nuclear enrichment and weaponization programs.”

Witkoff, who serves as Donald Trump’s Special Envoy for the Middle East, added, “It is in the world’s best interest that we reach a firm, fair, and lasting agreement. That is precisely what President Trump has tasked me with achieving.”

Although Witkoff holds the formal title of Special Envoy for the Middle East, former President Trump has assigned him several key responsibilities beyond the region, including leading negotiations with Russia and Iran.

Last Saturday, Witkoff held direct talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Oman. The next round of discussions is scheduled for April 19.

Yesterday, the U.S. State Department also emphasized that the United States wants Iran to “abandon” uranium enrichment. Additionally, the White House reported that President Trump spoke with Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said of Oman and stressed the importance of resolving Iran’s nuclear program through diplomatic negotiations.