Yet another mid-talks attack jeopardises chances of Iran taking Trump seriously

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi stated that the United States must drop "excessive demands" to reach a successful nuclear agreement. Aragchi emphasized the need for seriousness and realism from the US side during a phone call with his Egyptian counterpart. This statement follows recent indirect talks between Iranian and US officials in Geneva, mediated by Oman, where both sides agreed to continue discussions on sanctions and nuclear-related steps. Further negotiations will occur alongside technical team meetings in Vienna. The US seeks a complete dismantling of Iran's nuclear infrastructure, limits on ballistic missiles, and a cessation of support for regional allies, while Iran has shown flexibility on uranium enrichment but considers missiles and proxies non-negotiable.

Marco Rubio instructed US ambassadors in the Middle East to limit public commentary that could escalate tensions and hinder nuclear deal negotiations with Iran. The directive, issued on February 23rd, urged restraint in public statements, interviews, and social media activity. This followed concerns within the White House that recent remarks by US Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, regarding Israel's territorial rights, could negatively impact negotiations. The memo was sent after Huckabee's comments drew condemnation across the Middle East. The directive comes as Trump envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are trying to negotiate a nuclear deal to stave off a military conflict. The latest round of talks between the US and Iran in Geneva on Thursday appeared to be largely unsuccessful.

Amid rising tensions between the US and Iran, the UK has temporarily withdrawn staff from its embassy in Tehran, which will continue to operate remotely. The US embassy in Israel has also advised some non-emergency staff to leave. These actions follow warnings from multiple countries, including China, India, and Canada, advising their citizens to leave Iran due to potential hostilities. The US and Iran recently held indirect talks in Geneva, mediated by Oman, in an effort to de-escalate the situation surrounding Iran's nuclear ambitions. While Oman cited "significant progress" and Tehran hailed "good progress," the US has not yet issued an official response. The US has also ordered a significant military build-up in the Middle East, while Iran has vowed to respond forcefully to any attack.

Amid rising tensions and potential conflict with Iran, the United States authorized the departure of non-emergency personnel and their families from its embassy in Israel on Friday. This decision coincides with a significant US military build-up in the Middle East, including the arrival of the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier off the Israeli coast. The embassy cited "safety risks" as the reason for the authorized departure, advising individuals to consider leaving while commercial flights are available. The move follows Oman-mediated talks between the US and Iran aimed at de-escalating the situation, although disagreements remain. President Trump has repeatedly threatened military action against Iran.

The U.S. State Department authorized the departure of non-essential personnel from the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem on Friday due to potential Iranian strikes. U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee advised embassy staff to leave as soon as possible, citing an "abundance of caution" and anticipating high demand for flights. The embassy also reiterated the State Department's existing travel advisory, urging U.S. citizens to reconsider travel to Israel and the West Bank due to terrorism and civil unrest. The advisory specifically warns against travel to Gaza, northern Israel near the Lebanese and Syrian borders, and areas near the Egyptian border, citing ongoing security risks and potential attacks. The State Department's warning highlights the continued threat from terrorist groups and violent extremists targeting various locations within Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza.

US Vice-President J.D. Vance stated he doesn't believe potential military action against Iran would lead to a prolonged Middle Eastern war, according to a Washington Post interview. Vance acknowledged President Trump's options range from military strikes to diplomacy to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. His comments come as the US and Iran held a third round of indirect talks in Geneva, mediated by Oman, to address Iran's nuclear program. The US aims to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, while Iran seeks relief from economic sanctions in exchange for limiting its nuclear program. No breakthrough was reported during the talks, but further discussions are planned for next week.

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.

US and Iranian negotiators are meeting in Geneva today for critical talks regarding Iran's nuclear program. Iran maintains a deal is possible if the US adheres to three preconditions: acknowledging Iran's right to enrich uranium, allowing dilution of its enriched uranium stockpile, and refraining from controlling Iran's ballistic missile program. However, Trump's recent statements, including accusations of Iranian support for terrorism and claims about the country's nuclear ambitions, diverge from previous negotiating approaches. These discussions occur amidst ongoing tensions and differing perspectives on the path forward. Democrats have responded critically, accusing Trump of hypocrisy regarding fraud, given his administration's actions.

Talks between Iran and the US concluded in Geneva with officials citing significant progress, but Iranian state television reported that Tehran will continue enriching uranium and rejected proposals to transfer it abroad. The negotiations, facilitated by Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi, resulted in a next meeting set for Vienna within days. Senior US officials described the third round as "positive," while Iran pushed for the lifting of international sanctions. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi presented a draft proposal with key demands, but details remain unclear. The talks come amid tensions between the two nations over Iran's nuclear program and US President Donald Trump's demands for curbs on enrichment. A next meeting is scheduled to take place in Vienna soon.

A new AP-NORC poll reveals that many American adults remain concerned about Iran's nuclear program as the U.S. and Iran resume nuclear talks in Geneva. The poll, conducted February 19-23, found that roughly half of U.S. adults are "extremely" or "very" concerned that Iran's nuclear program poses a direct threat to the United States. Despite this concern, the poll indicates that many Americans do not have high trust in President Donald Trump's judgment regarding the use of military force abroad. The U.S. seeks a deal to limit Iran’s nuclear program, while Iran maintains it isn't pursuing weapons. Trump, who previously withdrew from an earlier nuclear agreement, has threatened military action to constrain Iran's atomic program.

The US has expanded travel warnings to several countries, including Australia, as tensions between Washington and Iran continue to escalate. The Australian government has advised dependants of diplomats in Israel and Lebanon to leave both countries, while offering voluntary departures for dependants of diplomats in the UAE, Qatar, and Jordan. The US has also suspended non-essential staff from its embassy in Lebanon. Airlines have scaled back flights to the region, with KLM temporarily suspending flights between Amsterdam and Tel Aviv. Several countries, including Cyprus, Germany, India, Poland, Serbia, and Sweden, have advised their nationals to leave Iran. These measures come ahead of critical talks over Iran's nuclear program, which began on Wednesday, amid mounting concerns about a potential military conflict between the US and Iran.

Iran and the United States are scheduled to hold a third round of indirect nuclear negotiations in Geneva, Switzerland, facilitated by Oman. The talks aim to find a diplomatic solution regarding Iran's nuclear program. Despite both sides expressing a preference for diplomacy, tensions remain high. The US Vice President accused Iran of attempting to rebuild its nuclear program and reiterated that all options are on the table to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. Simultaneously, the US Treasury Department announced new sanctions targeting individuals, entities, and vessels allegedly involved in financing Iran's oil sales, ballistic missile program, and weapons production. Iran maintains it is not seeking nuclear weapons and will not relinquish its right to peaceful nuclear technology.

US and Iranian officials are scheduled to meet in Geneva on Thursday for a third round of indirect talks, mediated by Oman, amid rising tensions and a US military build-up in the Middle East. The discussions are a last-ditch effort to prevent conflict as President Trump threatens potential military action if a nuclear deal isn't reached. The US demands Iran halt uranium enrichment, while Iran has hinted at possible concessions regarding its nuclear program. The Iranian delegation will be led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and the US will be represented by Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. The talks occur against a backdrop of increased US military presence in the region and long-standing accusations that Iran is secretly developing nuclear weapons, which Iran denies.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that a deal with the US to avoid conflict is possible if diplomacy is prioritized, ahead of talks in Geneva on February 25, 2026. Araghchi emphasized Iran's stance against developing nuclear weapons while asserting its right to peaceful nuclear technology. Indirect talks between the US and Iran, mediated by Oman, are scheduled for Thursday in Geneva, marking the third round of discussions. The US delegation is led by White House envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. These talks occur amid a US military build-up in the Middle East, including the deployment of the USS Gerald R Ford aircraft carrier. President Trump has given Iran a short timeframe to make a deal, while also threatening military intervention.

In his State of the Union address, President Trump did not clarify his plans regarding Iran, despite ongoing speculation about potential military action. Trump has stated a preference for a deal with Iran over war, but the US is awaiting acceptable terms from Tehran through ongoing negotiations in Geneva, mediated by Oman. A diplomat suggested that a failure to reach an agreement could lead to military action. A key US demand is verifiable assurance that Iran will not pursue nuclear weapons, while Iran insists it has no intention of doing so. Iran has signaled a willingness to compromise on its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief, which they hope will stabilize their economy.

As the U.S. increases its military presence in the Middle East, Iranians are apprehensive about upcoming talks with the U.S. in Geneva. These negotiations are viewed by many as a final opportunity for Iran to reach an agreement with the Trump administration, particularly after the U.S. withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal in 2018. The talks occur amidst economic hardship due to sanctions and a recent crackdown on dissent within Iran, following protests where thousands were reportedly killed or arrested. Despite internal divisions and recent conflicts, Iran's Foreign Minister has expressed determination to achieve a fair deal. Many Iranians fear that the situation could escalate into a war with the U.S., potentially exceeding the scale of the Iran-Iraq war.

In February 2026, President Trump stated in his State of the Union address that the United States "obliterated" Iran's nuclear program the previous year. This statement directly contradicts claims made by Steve Witkoff, Trump's special envoy, who asserted that Iran is "one week away" from developing a nuclear bomb. The discrepancy between the President's public statement and his envoy's assessment raises questions about the current status of Iran's nuclear capabilities. The conflicting information creates uncertainty regarding the US government's official stance on the matter. The reason for the contradiction was not specified in the report.

In February 2026, the White House reaffirmed that the June 2025 US strikes, known as Operation Midnight Hammer, "obliterated" Iran's nuclear program. This statement comes days after a senior Trump aide, Steve Witkoff, claimed Iran was only a week away from having enough material to build a nuclear bomb. White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated that the attack on Iranian nuclear facilities was an "overwhelmingly successful mission" and that its destruction was verified by Trump and the IAEA. Despite the claimed success of the strikes, US and Iranian officials are currently engaged in talks to reach a nuclear deal and prevent future conflict. The US maintains vigilance to ensure Iran does not re-establish a nuclear program.

President Trump's decision regarding potential airstrikes against Iran is pending the assessment of his special envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Their judgment will reportedly influence the final decision. Meanwhile, the White House announced that Trump's upcoming State of the Union address will center on the 250th anniversary of US independence. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that the speech will also address affordability concerns. The President intends to highlight stories of American heroes embodying bravery and the spirit of 1776 during the address.

President Trump is considering airstrikes against Iran, with the final decision partly influenced by the advice of special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner regarding Iran's commitment to nuclear negotiations. Trump is weighing limited strikes to pressure Iran or a larger attack for regime change if a deal isn't reached. Iran has threatened strong retaliation to any US attack, including potentially sinking a US warship. The US is preparing for "last-ditch" negotiations with Iran on Thursday. Additionally, a 15% tariff announced by Trump has not yet been implemented but could be enacted at any time.

Iran's deputy foreign minister vowed that Iran will do "whatever it takes" to reach a nuclear deal with the U.S. ahead of planned talks in Geneva on Thursday. The Iranian delegation, along with U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, will meet to discuss the nuclear program. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that President Trump prefers diplomacy with Iran but is prepared to use military force if necessary. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi affirmed Iran's commitment to peaceful nuclear technology and denied any intention to develop nuclear weapons. He expressed optimism for a fair deal that addresses mutual concerns, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing diplomacy.

Armed police and security forces have been deployed to Iranian universities to suppress ongoing student protests against Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. For four days, students have engaged in demonstrations, leading to clashes with state-backed militias and closures of in-person classes at some universities. Protesters are chanting slogans demanding the release of political prisoners and criticizing the government. These protests coincide with upcoming nuclear program talks in Geneva between Iranian and US officials. Iran's attorney general has called for decisive action against the protesters, accusing them of being influenced by enemies of the state. The unrest occurs as the US increases its military presence in the region, potentially impacting the outcome of the nuclear negotiations.

Anti-government protests are building across Iran as nuclear negotiations with the U.S. are set to resume in Geneva on Thursday. Demonstrators are expressing anger over economic hardship and repression. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian vowed defiance, stating Tehran would not bow to external pressure regarding its nuclear program. The U.S. has expanded its military presence in the Middle East as negotiations, mediated by Oman, aim to address Iran's nuclear program amid rising regional tensions. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has ruled out abandoning uranium enrichment and rejected U.S. demands to include Iran's ballistic missile program in negotiations. The U.S. special envoy warned that Iran could be close to having bomb-making material.

Amidst ongoing nuclear talks between the US and Iran, Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated on February 23, 2026, that while Tehran seeks a diplomatic resolution, it will defend itself against any US aggression. This statement followed President Trump's consideration of a limited strike if a nuclear deal isn't reached. Iran considers any US attack, even limited, an act of aggression warranting a response. Despite the tensions, Iranian President Pezeshkian noted "encouraging signals" from the talks. Indirect negotiations, mediated by Oman, are scheduled to continue in Geneva on Thursday, though US confirmation is pending. The talks occur against the backdrop of a significant US military build-up in the region.

In February 2026, despite a buildup of U.S. military power in the Persian Gulf, Iran is refusing to concede to U.S. demands regarding its nuclear program and ballistic missiles. Analysts suggest Iran's leaders view these concessions as a greater threat to their survival than the risk of war with the U.S. The U.S. insists on zero uranium enrichment and limits to Iran's missile range, while Iran considers enrichment a right and missile defense crucial. Negotiations between U.S. and Iranian officials are scheduled for Geneva this Thursday, but a dangerous mismatch in perceptions makes a deal fragile and a regional conflict increasingly likely. Iran prioritizes its ideological stance and place in history, even if it risks immediate survival.

Students across several universities in Iran gathered to protest again, despite a heavy security presence and plainclothes officers stationed outside university gates. The protests began on Saturday, marking the start of the new academic term, and have spread to universities across Tehran and the northeastern city of Mashhad. Protesting students are boycotting classes due to the deaths of thousands of protesters in January's crackdown, with at least 7,000 confirmed killed and another 11,700 under investigation. The protests are fueled by the regime's labeling of dissenters as foreign-backed agents, which students claim is a tactic to silence them. Students are demanding freedom and peace for future generations, willing to risk their lives to achieve this goal. Protests have been ongoing since smaller demonstrations began weeks ago among medical students.

Anti-government protests escalated across Iran on Sunday, with clashes reported at major universities and in the streets of Tehran. Students gathered in Tehran and Mashhad to commemorate those killed in January's anti-government demonstrations, leading to violence. Reports indicate tear gas and shots were fired by security forces in response to protests where demonstrators chanted anti-government slogans and criticized Iranian leaders. Some students reportedly defaced images of Supreme Leader Khamenei. State TV claimed that some individuals disguised as students attacked pro-government protesters. Opposition groups described a forceful response by authorities, including the use of tear gas against demonstrators.

Indirect talks between the United States and Iran are scheduled to resume on Thursday in Geneva, according to Oman's foreign minister. This follows a previous round of talks held in Geneva last week, facilitated by Oman. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated a meeting with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff is expected and that a diplomatic solution regarding the nuclear issue remains possible. Araghchi stated that Iran is working on a draft proposal and maintains its right to enrich uranium. The Trump administration has been pushing for concessions from Iran and has increased the U.S. military presence in the Middle East.

The US and Iran are expected to hold nuclear talks in Geneva this week, signaling a potential diplomatic solution amid heightened tensions. Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi indicated a possibility of a "fast deal" while also warning of self-defense if attacked. Simultaneously, the Iranian government faces renewed internal pressure as student demonstrations reignited at universities in Tehran and Mashhad, commemorating victims of past protests. The government's handling of previous unrest, including disputed death tolls and refusal of a UN-led inquiry, faces scrutiny. Despite initial vocal support for protesters, the US focus has shifted to Iran's nuclear program, with a significant military presence building in the region.

Oman's Foreign Minister announced that the US and Iran will hold further negotiations in Geneva on Thursday. The talks aim to finalize a deal amid rising tensions and a US military build-up in the region. Iran's Foreign Minister stated that Tehran is ready to implement a "full monitoring mechanism" to ensure the peaceful nature of its nuclear program. He emphasized Iran's right to peaceful nuclear energy, including enrichment, under the Non-Proliferation Treaty, citing national dignity and investment in the technology. Despite concerns and US pressure, Iran insists on maintaining its enrichment program while cooperating with the IAEA.

Student-led anti-government protests erupted for a second day at universities in Tehran and Mashhad, Iran, despite a recent deadly crackdown on dissent. The demonstrations, occurring at at least seven university campuses, mark some of the first major protests since January when thousands were killed and tens of thousands arrested. Students are mourning those killed in earlier protests and calling for an end to the rule of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The protests coincide with internal discontent and rising tensions with the U.S. While the government has not officially acknowledged the protests, a University of Tehran official cautioned students against violence.

Following deadly nationwide protests in January, Iranian universities reopened, prompting renewed demonstrations by students in Tehran and other cities on Sunday and Monday. Thousands of students protested at universities like the University of Tehran against the government, while clashes erupted between them and pro-government students affiliated with the IRGC's Basij organization. Heavy security force presence was reported both inside and outside the universities, with reports of violent crackdowns. Protests also occurred in Mashhad, and celebrations took place in Abdanan following the release of a teacher arrested during protests last week. The demonstrations come after tens of thousands, including students, were arrested during and after the January protests.

US President Donald Trump is considering a limited military strike on Iran amid ongoing tensions over its nuclear program. This follows a naval build-up in the Middle East, intended to pressure Iran into a deal to limit its nuclear ambitions. Trump previously issued a deadline for Tehran to agree to a deal, which he later extended. Meanwhile, Iran's foreign minister stated that a draft proposal for an agreement with Washington would be ready within days, following negotiations in Geneva. The draft would then be submitted to Trump's Middle East negotiator for review.

According to Iran's foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, the U.S. did not demand a halt to uranium enrichment during nuclear deal talks in Switzerland this week, contradicting the Trump administration's public stance. Araghchi stated Iran is developing confidence-building measures to ensure its nuclear program remains peaceful. However, a White House official disputed this, reiterating Trump's demand that Iran not have the capacity to enrich uranium or build nuclear weapons. While Iran reportedly offered to suspend enrichment for three to five years in exchange for sanctions relief, the U.S. has not confirmed this offer. The level of enrichment Washington is willing to permit remains a key point of contention.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on February 20, 2026, that a diplomatic solution with the US is achievable regarding Iran's nuclear program, despite ongoing tensions. Speaking to US media, Araghchi criticized the US military build-up in the Middle East as "unnecessary and unhelpful," arguing it complicates reaching a fair agreement. He emphasized that Iran is prepared for peace and responds to respect, noting previous pressure tactics from the US have failed. These statements come amidst ongoing negotiations between the US and Iran, described as positive by both sides, even as the US continues to deploy military assets to the region. President Trump acknowledged considering limited strikes against Iran, while Araghchi warned against such actions.

US President Donald Trump stated he is considering a limited military strike on Iran to pressure its leaders into a deal to curb their nuclear program. This statement follows increased US military presence in the region, including the deployment of warships and fighter jets. The US and European allies suspect Iran is developing nuclear weapons, a claim Iran denies. US and Iranian officials have been meeting in Switzerland, with Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stating a draft agreement proposal will be presented to the US in the coming days. Trump indicated a decision on a deal or military action would be made within approximately ten days.

Amidst ongoing nuclear talks between the United States and Iran, President Trump stated on Friday that he is considering limited military strikes against Iran. This comes as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated that a proposed deal could be ready within days. Araghchi stated that serious negotiations on the text could begin within a week, potentially leading to a conclusion. Tensions between the two countries have increased as the Trump administration seeks concessions from Iran and has expanded its military presence in the Middle East. Both countries have expressed readiness for war if diplomatic efforts regarding Iran's nuclear program fail.

The United States is deploying a significant military force to the Middle East, including aircraft carriers and fighter jets, amid ongoing tensions with Iran over its nuclear program. President Trump has warned Iran to reach a deal regarding its nuclear ambitions, suggesting a possible 10-day timeframe for action. This military build-up is the largest since the 2003 invasion of Iraq, though ground troops are unlikely. The deployment provides President Trump with the option for a sustained military campaign against Iran, potentially in cooperation with Israel. The situation raises concerns about whether Iran can meet Trump's demands and whether the military presence will compel the US to take action.

Satellite images from February 2026 reveal Iran is fortifying its Parchin military complex, located southeast of Tehran, with a concrete shield and soil covering. This development follows reports of an Israeli bombing at the site in October 2024. The images also show Iran burying tunnel entrances at a nuclear site bombed by the US during Israel's 12-day war with Iran last year, fortifying other tunnel entrances, and repairing missile bases damaged in the conflict. These actions occur amid heightened tensions with the US and a growing US military presence in the region. Poland's Prime Minister has urged Polish citizens to leave Iran due to the risk of escalation. The Parchin complex has been suspected of past nuclear weapons-related testing, allegations Iran denies.

Donald Trump stated that the prospects of a nuclear deal with Iran will become clear within approximately 10 days. This announcement coincides with a growing U.S. military presence in the Middle East, including the impending arrival of a second carrier strike group led by the USS Gerald R Ford, joining the USS Abraham Lincoln already in the Arabian Sea. U.S. envoys met with Iranian officials in Geneva to discuss Iran's nuclear enrichment program, with Iran promising a response within two weeks regarding U.S. demands to abandon enrichment in exchange for sanctions relief. The U.S. military buildup raises concerns about potential military action, although experts debate the potential effectiveness of such action. The two carrier strike groups could generate a high intensity of strike sorties.

In February 2026, US President Donald Trump stated that Iran has approximately 10 days to reach a deal with the US or face potential military action. Speaking at the Board of Peace meeting in Washington, D.C., Trump argued that previous US-Israeli strikes against Iran's nuclear facilities facilitated a ceasefire in Gaza and broader peace in the Middle East. His statement follows indirect talks between the US and Iran in Geneva, where Iran reported progress towards an agreement. Despite these talks, the US continues to build up its military presence in the Gulf region. While Iran has signaled willingness to curb uranium enrichment under international inspection, the US opposes any Iranian enrichment and seeks limits on Tehran's missile arsenal, which Iran considers non-negotiable.

A recent report by Axios suggests that a full-scale US attack on Iran may be closer than many realize, despite ongoing negotiations. This assessment, coupled with the build-up of US military assets in the Middle East, is seen by some as coercive diplomacy aimed at pressuring Iran. While Iran insists it won't negotiate under duress, it claims to be engaging constructively, citing its willingness to continue discussions in Geneva and its ongoing dialogue with the IAEA regarding nuclear site inspections and uranium stockpile dilution. The Iranian foreign ministry stated that the US delegation shortened the Geneva talks to attend to negotiations with Ukraine and Russia. The IAEA acknowledges progress but emphasizes the urgency of the situation.

In February 2026, President Trump's special envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, are engaged in negotiations to resolve conflicts involving Iran, Ukraine, and Gaza. Witkoff and Kushner held talks in Geneva regarding the Iranian nuclear program and the war in Ukraine. They are scheduled to meet in Washington for the first meeting of Trump's "Board of Peace" to address the conflict in Gaza and the Israeli-Palestinian issue. Despite the envoys' efforts, concrete progress in resolving these complex situations remains limited. Talks with Iran, mediated by Oman, have yielded a vague agreement on "guiding principles," but details are unclear amidst a U.S. military buildup.

Despite ongoing indirect nuclear talks between Iran and the US in February 2026, Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei criticized the US and cast doubt on the possibility of a meaningful agreement. Khamenei accused the US of attempting to overthrow the Iranian government since 1979 and rejected demands for Iran to halt uranium enrichment. His statements contrast with those of Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who reported constructive discussions in Geneva and agreements on "guiding principles." Khamenei's remarks suggest a continued hardline stance against the US, despite diplomatic efforts to revive a nuclear deal. The Supreme Leader's skepticism highlights the challenges in achieving a breakthrough in the negotiations.

US President Donald Trump stated he will be "indirectly" involved in the upcoming second round of high-stakes nuclear talks between the US and Iran in Geneva, scheduled for Tuesday, February 17, 2026. The talks occur amid heightened tensions in the Gulf, with the US deploying a second aircraft carrier to the region. While Trump believes Iran is motivated to negotiate, major disagreements remain, including US demands for Iran to forgo uranium enrichment and discuss its missile program. Iran insists its nuclear program is peaceful and seeks sanctions relief in exchange for curbs on its nuclear activities, refusing to discuss its missile capabilities. Iranian Minister of Foreign Affairs Abbas Araghchi traveled to Geneva for meetings ahead of the indirect talks with the US.

Iran fired live missiles towards the Strait of Hormuz while its supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, warned that a US warship deployed in the Gulf could be sunk. The warning came as nuclear talks between the two countries began on Tuesday in Geneva. Iran announced a maritime military exercise on Monday, which involved firing missiles into the Strait of Hormuz. The talks are the second round of negotiations about Iran's nuclear programme and will focus only on this issue, excluding domestic policies. The US warship is part of Washington's increased military presence in the Middle East. Iranian state TV reported that the negotiations would be indirect and limited to discussions on Iran's nuclear programme.

The U.S. and Iran are set to resume nuclear talks in Switzerland on Tuesday amid heightened tensions. Negotiators, including U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, will meet in Geneva. President Trump has stated that he will be involved "indirectly" and has warned Iran to reach an immediate agreement or face a possible U.S. attack. This comes after a buildup of U.S. forces in the region and a crackdown on Iranian protests. The talks aim to address Iran's nuclear program, but disagreements remain over Iran's ballistic missile program and support for proxy militias. Regional countries fear that a potential U.S. strike and Iranian retaliation could destabilize the Middle East.

Ahead of nuclear talks in Geneva, the article profiles Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US envoy Steve Witkoff, highlighting their contrasting backgrounds and negotiation styles. Araghchi, a seasoned diplomat with a PhD and a book on negotiation, is portrayed as patient and strategic, reflecting Iran's "market style" of bargaining. Witkoff, a property developer, is seen as operating under a more volatile approach dictated by President Trump. The article suggests that successful negotiations require both sides to make concessions and understand each other's approaches, particularly Iran's emphasis on persistence and repeated demands. Araghchi's book emphasizes national cohesion and military strength as key factors in successful negotiation.

Iran commenced naval exercises in the Strait of Hormuz, Persian Gulf, and Oman Sea on Monday, February 16, 2026. The drills, overseen by Gen. Mohammad Pakpour, head of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, were reported by state TV. The timing of the exercises coincides with upcoming nuclear talks between the US and Iran scheduled to take place in Geneva on Tuesday. The drills involved naval forces operating in strategically important waterways. The purpose of the exercises was not explicitly stated in the report.

On February 16, 2026, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director-General Rafael Grossi in Geneva, Switzerland. The meeting took place ahead of a second round of talks with the United States. The purpose of the meeting was likely to discuss Iran's nuclear program and cooperation with the IAEA. This meeting follows previous discussions between Araghchi and Grossi, including one in Cairo in September 2025. The talks are part of ongoing efforts to address concerns about Iran's nuclear activities.