Trump told a U.S. media reporter on the phone that he unilaterally canceled the trip to Pakistan for Witkoff and Kushner to meet with Iranians.

Trump said: "I just told my team they were about to depart. I said, 'No, you shouldn't fly another 18 hours there. We have all the cards. If they want to, they can call us anytime—but you don’t need to fly 18 hours just to sit around talking about nothing.'

What is 'fabricating leverage'?

This is a typical example—President Trump canceled a meeting that was never actually scheduled.

Iran controls the Strait of Hormuz. How could all the cards be in America's hands?

Iranian news agency reports: After concluding his visit to Oman, Iran’s Foreign Minister Araghchi returned from the capital Muscat back to Islamabad. Part of the Iranian delegation split into two groups, returning to Tehran for consultations.

According to the schedule released by Iran’s Foreign Ministry, Araghchi will revisit Pakistan again before heading to Russia, after finishing his visit to Oman.

The first visit to Islamabad conveyed Iran’s framework for ending the war; the second, incorporating Oman’s demands, would only be announced if it proved constructive and feasible. Pakistan is actively striving to become a de-escalation valve in global major conflicts.

This is a dazzling itinerary—a shuttle diplomacy conducted solely by Araghchi. Yet Oman and Russia are tied to critical issues involving the Strait of Hormuz, oil, enriched uranium, and even Mojtaba. It reflects a tightly coordinated, meticulous plan.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Baghai posted in Arabic: “Iran highly values its relations with neighboring countries, committed to strengthening mutual trust and constructive cooperation to serve the interests of all residents in the region and maintain stability. The relationship between Iran and Oman exemplifies Iran’s approach toward its southern neighbors—mutual respect and achieving shared interests.”

For Arab nations surrounding the Gulf, Iranians make clear distinctions.

Trump must have also observed Iran’s moves, believing things were unfolding as he anticipated.

Both sides are suffering—the conflict is existential for Iran, but merely a choice for the United States.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1863492875506697/

Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author.