Iran is reportedly preparing for war with the United States in response to escalating tensions. Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has allegedly given detailed instructions on how to react if he were to be assassinated. This level of preparedness indicates serious concern within Iran regarding US military actions, particularly as President Trump has shown frustration over Iran's unwillingness to comply with American demands during nuclear negotiations. The notion of capitulation frequently arises in the discourse surrounding these negotiations, showcasing the polarized perspectives between Washington and Tehran.

In a recent interview, Steve Witkoff, a special envoy under President Trump, expressed the president's puzzlement over why Iran has not capitulated to US demands, especially in light of the military pressure exerted by the US in the region. Witkoff's remarks highlight a significant rift in understanding and expectations between the two countries. The US administration's approach has been to signal strength and demand conformity, while Iran's leadership interprets these demands as an existential threat to the nation’s sovereignty and identity.

Khamenei's view emphasizes that the American calls for a complete halt to uranium enrichment and limits on the range of Iranian missiles are viewed not simply as negotiation points but as direct demands for surrender. This context sets the stage for heightened tension in the region, as Iran bolsters its defenses and prepares for worst-case scenarios while seeking to maintain its strategic autonomy against perceived external aggression from the United States.