Where Things Stand on Witkoff and Kushner’s Negotiations Over Iran, Ukraine and Gaza

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by Steven Erlanger

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

President Trump’s special envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, are engaging in high-stakes diplomacy across three critical global conflicts: Iran, Ukraine, and Gaza. Despite their relentless efforts to broker peace, progress remains elusive. The pair has been shuttling between Geneva, Europe, and Washington, D.C., addressing issues ranging from the Iranian nuclear program to Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the ongoing violence in Gaza. Their activities are part of Trump’s "Board of Peace," which convened for the first time this week, signaling a renewed focus on resolving these complex disputes. The negotiations with Iran are particularly tense, with signals suggesting a potential escalation toward war as an American naval buildup near Tehran continues. Meanwhile, efforts to mediate between Russia and Ukraine have seen minimal progress, reflecting the deep-rooted complexities of the conflict. In Gaza, Kushner and Witkoff aim to address the simmering tensions between Israel and Palestine, a challenge further complicated by shifting alliances and historical grievances. This multifaceted diplomatic initiative underscores the Trump administration’s ambitious approach to foreign policy, relying on non-diplomatic envoys like Kushner and Witkoff to navigate these intricate negotiations. While their energy is notable, the lack of experienced diplomats in key roles has left figures like Secretary of State Marco Rubio largely sidelined. The outcome of these efforts could have significant implications for global security, influencing US foreign policy and potentially reshaping regional dynamics. The stakes are high as these talks aim to address some of the world’s most pressing conflicts. Success or failure will impact not only the regions directly involved but also set a precedent for future US engagement in international disputes. The involvement of non-traditional envoys highlights Trump’s unconventional approach, raising questions about the effectiveness of such strategies in achieving lasting peace.

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/19/2026