Trump Iran airstrikes decision to be guided by Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff’s advice

The Guardian World
by Hugo Lowell in Washington
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Donald Trump’s decision on whether to order airstrikes against Iran is significantly influenced by the judgment of his special envoys, Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff. The president has yet to make a final determination as he weighs whether Tehran is delaying a nuclear deal aimed at curbing its ability to produce nuclear weapons. This decision comes amid heightened tensions and critical diplomatic efforts. The administration is closely awaiting Iran’s latest proposal ahead of crucial negotiations scheduled for Thursday in Geneva. These talks are described as a last-ditch effort to resolve the nuclear dispute, with Kushner and Witkoff playing pivotal roles in assessing Tehran’s intentions and actions. Their analysis will be key in shaping Trump’s approach, whether it involves military strikes or continued diplomatic engagement. This situation holds significant implications for global security and US-Iran relations. The outcome could either ease regional tensions through a successful nuclear deal or escalate hostilities if airstrikes are authorized. The stakes are high as the world watches for any developments that could impact international stability and nuclear nonproliferation efforts.
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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/23/2026