US and Iran wrap up indirect nuclear talks as American forces mass in Middle East

South China Morning Post DiplomaticNews ReportEN 2 min read 100% complete by Associated PressFebruary 26, 2026 at 08:49 PM

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The US and Iran concluded indirect nuclear talks in Geneva, mediated by Oman, aimed at reaching a deal on Iran's nuclear program and preventing potential conflict. While the US seeks to constrain Iran's nuclear ambitions, Iran insists on its right to enrich uranium and refuses to discuss other issues like missile development. Oman's foreign minister indicated "significant progress" and announced technical-level talks will resume in Vienna next week. The talks occur amidst rising tensions, with the US increasing its military presence in the Middle East. Iran has warned that US bases and Israel would be targeted if attacked, raising the specter of a regional war. Both sides acknowledge the devastating consequences of a potential conflict.

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Key Claims (5)

AI-Extracted

There would be no victory for anybody – it would be a devastating war.

quote — Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi100% confidence

If America attacks, Iran has said US military bases in the region would be considered legitimate targets.

quote — Iran100% confidence

Iran and the United States wrapped up another round of indirect talks in Geneva on Thursday.

factual100% confidence

Technical-level talks would take place on Monday in Vienna.

factual — Oman’s foreign minister, Badr al-Busaidi90% confidence

Oman’s foreign minister said there had been “significant progress in the negotiation”.

quote — Oman’s foreign minister, Badr al-Busaidi90% confidence

Claims are automatically extracted and should be independently verified. Attribution indicates the stated source of the claim.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Switzerland 40% Hezbollah 50% Hamas 50% Oman 50% Vienna 50% International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) 60% Geneva ×260% Badr al-Busaidi 60% Donald Trump 70% Middle East ×280% United States ×690% Iran ×790%

Keywords

nuclear talks 100% iran 90% united states 90% middle east 80% war 70% nuclear programme 70% enrich uranium 60% military bases 50% regional war 50% indirect talks 40%