First Thing: Trump Iran airstrikes decision to be guided by Kushner and Witkoff’s advice

The Guardian World

by Clea Skopeliti

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The decision by President Donald Trump on whether to authorize airstrikes against Iran will reportedly be influenced by the advice of his special envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. According to sources familiar with the matter, Trump is considering limited strikes as a means to pressure Iran, with plans for larger-scale attacks if those efforts fail. However, Tehran has made it clear that any US attack would face a forceful retaliation, including threats from Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who claimed the ability to sink a US warship. Meanwhile, Trump's announcement of a 15% tariff hike remains pending but could still be implemented at any time. The situation is further complicated by ongoing negotiations between the US and Iran, which are set to conclude in a "last-ditch" effort on Thursday. This comes amid heightened tensions over Tehran's nuclear capabilities and its refusal to back down from its stance. Trump has reportedly not yet made a final decision on military action, but his advisors are urging caution as they assess whether Iran is genuinely willing to negotiate or if it is merely stalling for time. The broader context of US-Iran relations is marked by deepening animosity, with most American adults feeling that the country is moving in the wrong direction. This sentiment underscores the high stakes involved in Trump's potential decision. A military strike could escalate tensions further, drawing global attention and potentially destabilizing the region. Meanwhile, the unresolved tariff issue adds another layer of economic uncertainty, as it could impact trade dynamics and diplomatic relations. The outcome of this situation will have significant implications for international security and US foreign policy. If Trump opts for limited strikes, it could set a precedent for future confrontations with Iran, while larger-scale attacks would likely deepen the conflict and provoke stronger retaliatory measures from Tehran. The involvement of Kushner and Witkoff highlights the administration's strategic approach to navigating this delicate diplomatic landscape. Ultimately, the decision hangs in the balance as Trump weighs the advice of his envoys and considers the potential consequences of his actions. This high-stakes scenario underscores the importance of understanding the motivations behind US policy decisions and their global ramifications for readers interested in world affairs and political developments.

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/24/2026