'No Victory for Trump': Washington Is Failing in Iran and Saudi Deal | Former US Envoy

Jul 26, 2026 | "We have no one involved in negotiating with them that has any experience in negotiating international agreements. We have people who have no history of Iran, no understanding of the country and its culture. And so our negotiations are just failing."

Donald Trump’s administration is heading toward an embarrassing exit strategy in its war with Iran as strikes continue to disrupt vital shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, says former Ambassador of the United States to Saudi Arabia, Joseph Westphal.


So what's so different about the Saudis' needs for a nuclear programme and the Iranians' needs for one? This is a case of double standards. I would say that it behoves the US to be even-handed. What's sauce for the goose is also sauce for the gander. — © Mark Alexander