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Netanyahu to meet Trump in US to discuss Iran, says Israeli PM

53 articles
7 sources
0% diversity
Updated 9.2.2026
Key Topics & People
Oman *Abbas Araghchi Steve Witkoff Jared Kushner Masoud Pezeshkian

Coverage Framing

41
7
2
2
1
Diplomatic(41)
National Security(7)
Political Strategy(2)
Conflict(2)
Economic Impact(1)
Avg Factuality:75%
Avg Sensationalism:Moderate

Story Timeline

Feb 9, 2026

1 articles|1 sources
Diplomatic(1)
Al JazeeraFeb 9

Netanyahu to meet Trump in US to discuss Iran, says Israeli PM

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet with US President Donald Trump in the United States to discuss ongoing US-Iran negotiations. The meeting, scheduled after US-Iran talks in Oman, will be the seventh between the two leaders since Trump's return to office. Netanyahu aims to urge Trump to pressure Iran to limit its ballistic missile program and end support for regional groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. Iran, however, insists that negotiations remain focused solely on nuclear issues, deeming its missile program "non-negotiable." While Iran has expressed openness to nuclear talks, it rejects any discussion of its missile capabilities.

MeasuredFactual5 sources
Neutral

Key Claims

factual

Netanyahu will meet Trump in the US to discuss Iran.

— Netanyahu's office

factual

The talks will address the US’s ongoing negotiations with Iran.

— Israeli Prime Minister’s Office (PMO)

quote

Netanyahu believes Tehran should be pushed for limitations on ballistic missiles.

— Israeli Prime Minister’s Office (PMO)

quote

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has maintained talks will remain focused on the nuclear issue.

— Abbas Araghchi

quote

President Masoud Pezeshkian described the indirect talks held in Oman on Friday as a “step forward”.

— Masoud Pezeshkian

Feb 8, 2026

5 articles|3 sources
iranabbas araghchiusnegotiationsoman
Diplomatic(3)
Al JazeeraFeb 8

Iran FM says Tehran ready for deal with US with peaceful nuclear enrichment

In an interview on February 8, 2026, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran is prepared to reach a deal with the United States regarding its nuclear program. Speaking to Al Jazeera Arabic following talks in Oman, Araghchi indicated Tehran would agree to a deal that permits peaceful nuclear enrichment. However, he rejected the idea that the U.S. should have the authority to determine the range of Iran's missile production. The purpose of the proposed deal is to find a resolution to the ongoing tensions surrounding Iran's nuclear ambitions. The location of the interview was not stated.

MeasuredFactual1 source
Neutral
Al JazeeraFeb 8

Iran ready for nuclear-focused talks, rejects US military build-up

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has expressed Iran's readiness for further nuclear negotiations with the US, following mediated discussions in Oman. He emphasized Iran's right to nuclear development under the Non-Proliferation Treaty, while also stating that Iran will not respond well to force. Iranian officials are signaling a preference for nuclear-focused talks, rejecting any US military build-up in the region. This comes as Iran approaches the anniversary of its 1979 revolution, with planned state-organized demonstrations. Abbas Araghchi, a top Iranian diplomat, stated that Iran will continue nuclear enrichment for civilian use, even if it risks military attacks, emphasizing the country's commitment to independence.

MeasuredFactual5 sources
Neutral
Al JazeeraFeb 8

Iran-US talks in Muscat bought time, not a deal

In February 2026, Iran and the US held talks in Muscat, Oman, their first high-level diplomatic engagement since joint US-Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities in June 2025. While no breakthroughs were achieved, both sides agreed to meet again. Iran sought to focus solely on the nuclear file, while the US aimed for a comprehensive framework including ballistic missiles, regional armed groups, and human rights. The US delegation included Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of US Central Command, signaling military pressure as the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group operated nearby. Despite the resumption of diplomacy, significant differences remain, raising questions about whether the talks bought time or laid a foundation for future progress.

MeasuredMixed4 sources
Neutral
Political Strategy(1)
Associated Press (AP)Feb 8

Iran’s top diplomat strikes a hard line on US talks, saying Tehran’s power comes from saying ‘no’

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on Sunday that Iran's strength lies in resisting pressure from major powers, emphasizing the country's ability to reject demands amid ongoing negotiations with the United States regarding its nuclear program. Araghchi's remarks, delivered at a summit in Tehran, suggest Iran will maintain its stance on uranium enrichment, a key point of contention. His statement comes after Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian had characterized recent talks with the US in Oman as positive. The US has deployed military assets to the Middle East to pressure Iran toward an agreement. Araghchi rhetorically described Iran's power as its ability to "say no," even invoking the term "atomic bomb" in that context, despite Iran's official stance against pursuing nuclear weapons.

MeasuredFactual6 sources
Neutral
National Security(1)
South China Morning PostFeb 8

Iran defies Trump and US pressure over uranium enrichment

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on Sunday that Iran will not halt uranium enrichment despite pressure from the United States, including the threat of military action. Speaking at a forum in Tehran, Araghchi expressed distrust of Washington and questioned the seriousness of renewed negotiations. He emphasized Iran's right to enrich uranium and asserted that the U.S. military presence in the region, including the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln, would not intimidate them. The U.S. and Iran recently reopened negotiations in Oman on Friday, marking the first talks in years.

MeasuredFactual1 source
Neutral

Key Claims

factual

Iran's President Pezeshkian called on the US to respect his country as the two nations look ahead to nuclear negotiations.

— Article

quote

Pezeshkian described the indirect talks held in Oman as a “step forward” and said his administration favours dialogue.

— Pezeshkian

factual

Araghchi pointed out that the Islamic Republic has always emphasised independence since the 1979 revolution.

— Araghchi

factual

Iran is unwilling to forego nuclear enrichment for civilian use even if it leads to more military attacks by the US and Israel.

— Araghchi

quote

Araghchi told US envoys that “there is no way but negotiations”.

— Araghchi

Feb 7, 2026

7 articles|5 sources
iran talksirantrumpballistic missilesnegotiations
Diplomatic(5)
Al JazeeraFeb 7

Trump hails ‘very good’ Iran talks but maintains threat of military action

In February 2026, President Donald Trump announced that the United States held "very good" talks with Iran in Oman. The discussions centered around Iran's nuclear program. While hailing the positive nature of the talks, President Trump simultaneously reiterated the threat of potential military action. He emphasized that the US military remained positioned in the region. This positioning served as a leverage should Iran fail to reach an agreement regarding its nuclear ambitions. The purpose of the US engagement was to negotiate a deal concerning Iran's nuclear program.

MeasuredFactual1 source
Neutral
New York Times - WorldFeb 7

Trump Reverts to Diplomacy With Iran, but the Road Is Narrow

In February 2026, the U.S. and Iran engaged in talks in Oman regarding Iran's nuclear program. Despite heightened tensions and a U.S. military buildup in the region, both sides agreed to continue discussions, aiming for a framework for future talks. Iran insists on its right to enrich uranium and refuses to negotiate on ballistic missiles. While President Trump called the talks a "good start" and stated Iran must agree to no nuclear weapons, his position appears to contradict his negotiators' demand that Iran cease all enrichment. The talks represent a diplomatic approach amidst regional tensions, but significant disagreements remain.

MeasuredFactual4 sources
Neutral
Associated Press (AP)Feb 7

Israel says Netanyahu will meet with Trump on Wednesday about Iran talks

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington on Wednesday to discuss American talks with Iran. This meeting follows indirect talks between the U.S. and Iran in Oman regarding Tehran's nuclear program. Netanyahu believes any negotiations should limit Iran's ballistic missiles and end its support for militant groups. Trump called the initial talks "very good" and indicated more are planned. Tensions remain high, with Iran's foreign minister warning against a U.S. attack and the U.S. bringing its top military commander to the negotiating table for the first time.

MeasuredFactual6 sources
Neutral
National Security(1)
Fox News - WorldFeb 7

Iran vows to 'target US bases' if American forces launch an attack: report

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on Saturday that Iran would target U.S. bases in the region if attacked by American forces. This warning followed Araghchi's announcement that indirect nuclear talks with the U.S. in Oman were a positive initial step and would continue. According to Araghchi, Iran would not attack neighboring countries, but specifically U.S. bases stationed within them. The U.S. had previously attacked Iranian nuclear facilities, leading to a retaliatory Iranian attack on a U.S. airbase in Qatar. Omani officials facilitated separate meetings between Iranian and American representatives to foster conditions for resuming diplomatic and technical negotiations aimed at achieving regional security and stability.

Mixed toneFactual5 sources
Neutral
Economic Impact(1)
BBC News - WorldFeb 7

Trump signs executive order threatening tariffs for countries trading with Iran

President Trump signed an executive order on Friday threatening tariffs on countries that trade with Iran. The order allows for tariffs, potentially as high as 25%, on goods imported into the US from nations that do business with Iran. This action aims to hold Iran accountable for its nuclear ambitions, support for terrorism, and regional destabilization. The order comes amid ongoing talks between US and Iranian officials in Oman, the first such meeting since June. These talks, mediated by Oman, seek to clarify positions and identify areas for progress, with further discussions planned for next week. Trump stated that Iran seems eager to make a deal but faces steep consequences if they don't.

MeasuredFactual7 sources
Neutral

Key Claims

factual

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington on Wednesday about American talks with Iran.

— Netanyahu's office

quote

All negotiations must include limiting the ballistic missiles, and ending support for the Iranian axis.

— Netanyahu's office

factual

The U.S. and the Islamic Republic of Iran held indirect talks on Friday in Oman.

— AP

quote

If the U.S. attacks Iran, his country doesn’t have the ability to strike the U.S. and therefore has to attack or retaliate against U.S. bases in the region.

— Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi

quote

The “missile issue” and other defense matters are “in no way negotiable, neither now nor at any time in the future.”

— Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi

Feb 6, 2026

17 articles|7 sources
irannuclear programmeomannuclear talksus
Diplomatic(12)
South China Morning PostFeb 6

Oman mediates Iran-US nuclear talks amid tensions and Trump’s threats

Iran and the United States held indirect talks in Oman over Tehran's nuclear programme on Friday, facilitated by Oman as a mediator. The talks were described by Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi as "a very good start". US envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, President Donald Trump's son-in-law, represented the US side at the meeting. The discussions focused on finding a way to hold future negotiations, seemingly returning to where talks began months ago before Israel launched its war on Iran in June. US Navy Admiral Brad Cooper attended the meeting, marking an unusual development that may signal Washington's willingness to strike Iran if negotiations fail. The US has demonstrated military firepower in the region, raising questions about whether attacks could force Iran to change its ways or topple its government.

MeasuredFactual2 sources
Neutral
The Guardian - World NewsFeb 6

US and Iran to hold nuclear talks in Oman amid Trump’s military threats – live

US and Iranian officials are set to hold high-stakes negotiations over Iran's nuclear programme in Oman. The talks come after a dispute over the agenda, which may hinder progress. The US had initially planned to discuss regime change, but later relented on this point. Iran is believed to be betting that the Trump administration does not have a plan for regime change. The negotiations are seen as a significant development in efforts to resolve tensions between the two countries. The talks will take place in Oman, with no further details on the agenda or expected outcomes released by either side.

MeasuredFactual2 sources
Neutral
Al JazeeraFeb 6

US-Iran talks live: Critical talks to begin in Oman in push to prevent war

US and Iranian officials are meeting in Muscat, Oman, on February 6, 2026, for critical talks aimed at de-escalating tensions and preventing potential war. The discussions occur amidst escalating tensions and a US military buildup in the Gulf. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US President Donald Trump's advisors, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, are participating in the talks. The focus of the negotiations is expected to be Tehran's nuclear program and the lifting of sanctions. The talks are being held in Oman in an effort to mediate and find a diplomatic solution to the growing conflict.

Mixed toneFactual3 sources
Neutral
National Security(3)
New York Times - WorldFeb 6

Iran Is at Work on Missile and Nuclear Sites, Satellite Images Show

Satellite imagery analyzed by The New York Times reveals that Iran has been rapidly repairing missile facilities damaged in strikes by Israel and the U.S. last year, while repairs to nuclear sites have been slower. The analysis, corroborated by experts, examined approximately two dozen locations targeted during a conflict in June 2025. The swift missile site repairs suggest Iran prioritizes maintaining its ability to retaliate against potential future attacks on its nuclear facilities. Limited progress has been observed in restoring Iran's capacity to enrich nuclear fuel or develop a nuclear warhead. These developments occur as the U.S. maintains a military presence in the region and as the U.S. and Iran are expected to meet in Oman to discuss the Iranian nuclear program.

Mixed toneFactual3 sources
Negative
Al JazeeraFeb 6

What are Iranians saying about the threat of war?

In February 2026, Al Jazeera reported on the perspectives of Iranians in Tehran regarding the potential for war with the United States. The report explored Iranian sentiment concerning the threat of a US attack and their level of optimism regarding ongoing talks between the two nations in Oman. The interviews aimed to capture the public's mood amidst heightened tensions and diplomatic efforts. The article provides a snapshot of Iranian public opinion during a period of uncertainty.

MeasuredMixed
Neutral
South China Morning PostFeb 6

Iran media says projectile deployed in Revolutionary Guards’ underground ‘missile city’

Iranian state media announced the deployment of the Khorramshahr-4, a long-range ballistic missile with a 2,000 km range and 1,500 kg warhead capacity, in an underground Revolutionary Guards "missile city" on Wednesday. This deployment coincides with a shift in Iran's military doctrine towards a more offensive posture. Simultaneously, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi departed for Oman to hold nuclear talks with the United States on Friday. While both countries have agreed to talks, they remain divided on the scope of negotiations, with the US seeking to include Iran's missile arsenal and Iran limiting the discussion to its nuclear program. Iran stated its intention to engage in the talks with the goal of reaching a mutually acceptable understanding.

MeasuredFactual5 sources
Neutral
Political Strategy(1)
Al JazeeraFeb 6

Trump’s ‘maximalist demands’ for Iran put talks in Oman on uncertain ground

Talks between the US and Iran are set to resume in Muscat, Oman, on Friday, following a period of heightened tensions including US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities in June. The Trump administration is reportedly entering these talks with "maximalist demands" that extend beyond Iran's nuclear program. These demands include limiting Iran's ballistic missile program and ending support for regional proxies. Analysts suggest the US believes Iran is weakened, creating an opportunity to extract significant concessions. The US delegation includes special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, while Iran will be represented by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated the US is ready to talk, but any meaningful agreement must address ballistic missiles and support for terrorism.

MeasuredFactual4 sources
Neutral

Key Claims

quote

Iran's foreign minister said indirect talks with the US were a 'good start'.

— Iran’s foreign minister

factual

Indirect talks between Iran and the US were conducted with Omani mediation.

— NewsFeed

factual

Indirect nuclear talks between the U.S. and Iran took place in Oman.

— Article

quote

The indirect nuclear talks with the U.S. in Oman were 'a good start'.

— Abbas Araghchi

quote

The consultations focused on preparing the appropriate conditions for resuming diplomatic and technical negotiations.

— Foreign Ministry of Oman

Feb 5, 2026

6 articles|4 sources
nuclear talksomanus-iran talksmilitary confrontationiran
Diplomatic(6)
Al JazeeraFeb 5

US-Iran talks face ‘serious obstacles in the way of diplomacy’

The United States and Iran are set to hold talks in Oman on Friday as part of an effort to reach a deal that de-escalates the threat of military confrontation between the two countries. The talks come amid intense domestic pressure from both sides to succeed. Mohsen Milani, a politics professor at the University of South Florida, notes that the negotiations face "serious obstacles" in the way of diplomacy. The talks are an attempt to reduce tensions and prevent further escalation. The location of Oman suggests a neutral ground for the discussions. The purpose of the talks is to find a mutually acceptable solution to ease the threat of military confrontation between the US and Iran.

MeasuredFactual1 source
Neutral
BBC News - WorldFeb 5

US and Iran agree to hold nuclear talks in Oman on Friday

The US and Iran have agreed to hold nuclear talks in Oman on Friday, despite recent tensions and disagreements over the location and scope of discussions. The meeting, scheduled to begin at 10:00 (06:00 GMT) in Muscat, was confirmed by both Iranian and US officials. These talks come as President Trump has issued warnings to Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei, threatening military action if a nuclear deal isn't reached and the country doesn't cease killing protesters. While Iran insists its nuclear program is peaceful, the US seeks broader negotiations encompassing ballistic missiles, support for terrorist groups, and the treatment of Iranian citizens. The US agreed to the Oman location request to be respectful to allies, but remains skeptical of the talks' potential for success.

Mixed toneFactual7 sources
Neutral
Associated Press (AP)Feb 5

What to know as Iran and US set for nuclear talks in Oman

The United States and Iran are scheduled to hold nuclear talks in Oman. U.S. Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian officials, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, are expected to participate in the negotiations. The talks are taking place in Muscat, Oman, with the goal of addressing the nuclear issue between the two countries. The meetings are occurring sometime after February 3, 2026, based on the article's dateline. The specific reasons for the talks are related to ongoing concerns about Iran's nuclear program.

MeasuredFactual2 sources
Neutral

Key Claims

factual

The US and Iran are about to hold talks in Oman.

factual

Al Jazeera’s Resul Serdar explains the disagreement.

factual

The US and Iran have agreed to hold nuclear talks in Oman on Friday.

— Article

quote

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that the meeting would start at 10:00 (06:00 GMT) in Muscat.

— Abbas Araghchi

quote

Trump warned Khamenei that he should be very worried.

— Donald Trump

Feb 4, 2026

9 articles|5 sources
iranomannuclear talksustalks
Diplomatic(7)
Al JazeeraFeb 4

US-Iran nuclear talks set for Oman on Friday, Tehran confirms

US-Iran nuclear talks are scheduled to take place in Oman on Friday, confirmed by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The meeting, set for 10 am in Muscat, follows earlier uncertainty due to disagreements over format and location. The US confirmed its participation, shifting the venue from the originally planned Turkiye. Mediators from Qatar, Turkiye, and Egypt have presented a framework for discussion, including limiting uranium enrichment, restrictions on ballistic missiles, and the arming of regional allies. These talks occur amid heightened regional tensions and the potential for a US attack on Iran following recent protests and a US military buildup.

Mixed toneFactual6 sources
Neutral
South China Morning PostFeb 4

Trump says Iran leaders should be ‘very worried’ as talks near

US President Donald Trump has warned Iran's leaders that they should be "very worried" as diplomatic talks between Washington and Tehran are set to take place later this week. The talks, scheduled for Friday morning in Muscat, Oman, follow repeated threats by Trump to strike the country if it does not agree to a nuclear deal. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi had requested the discussions be moved from Turkey to Oman and exclude regional countries. The US and Iran plan to meet in Oman on Friday to discuss a nuclear deal. The talks were initially scheduled for Turkey, but were later confirmed for Oman. Diplomatic efforts have been ongoing between the two nations following repeated threats by Trump.

MeasuredFactual5 sources
Neutral
Associated Press (AP)Feb 4

Talks between Iran and the United States will be held on Friday in Oman, Iranian media say

Iranian media reported that talks between Iran and the United States will be held in Oman on Friday. This comes amid heightened tensions following Iran's crackdown on nationwide protests, where activists report over 50,000 arrests and thousands of deaths. Despite these tensions, including the downing of an Iranian drone by the U.S. and an Iranian attempt to stop a U.S.-flagged ship, negotiations are expected to proceed. Oman has previously hosted nuclear talks between the two countries. While the U.S. has not confirmed the Oman talks, the White House indicated that negotiations were anticipated, with U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff planning to meet with Iranian officials.

MeasuredFactual7 sources
Neutral
National Security(1)
Fox News - WorldFeb 4

Rubio confirms Iran demanded venue change for nuclear talks

Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that Iran requested a change in venue for nuclear talks with the U.S., moving from a previously agreed-upon location in Turkey. Reports indicate Iran prefers Oman for the talks, potentially limiting participation to a bilateral U.S.-Iran format. Rubio stated the U.S. is prepared to engage with Iran, outlining key discussion points including Iran's ballistic missiles, support for terrorism, nuclear program, and treatment of its citizens. He also addressed anti-regime protests in Iran, crediting former President Trump's stance with preventing executions, while highlighting the disconnect between the Iranian leadership and its people. Rubio noted Iran's economic issues stem from its funding of terrorism and proxy groups.

Mixed toneFactual4 sources
Neutral
Conflict(1)
South China Morning PostFeb 4

US and Iran now eyeing Oman for nuclear talks as tensions run high

The United States and Iran are expected to hold nuclear talks in Oman on Friday amid rising tensions. The talks come as the US military increases its presence in the Middle East and President Trump warns of potential consequences if a deal isn't reached. Iran has stated it will not compromise on its ballistic missile program, which it considers a red line. The US agreed to move the talks from Turkey at Iran's request, with ongoing discussions about including other regional Arab and Muslim countries. The US military recently shot down an Iranian drone that approached the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier in the Arabian Sea.

Mixed toneFactual2 sources
Negative

Key Claims

factual

Nuclear talks between Iran and the US will take place in Oman on Friday.

— Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi

factual

Talks are scheduled to take place at 10am in Muscat on Friday (06:00 GMT).

— Abbas Araghchi

factual

US will take part in high-level talks with Iran in Oman instead of Turkiye.

— White House official

quote

Trump said Iran's leaders should be 'very worried'.

— Donald Trump

factual

Talks between the US and Iran were scheduled to be held in Muscat, Oman, on Friday morning.

— Abbas Araghchi

Feb 3, 2026

3 articles|3 sources
iranunited statesnegotiationsmasoud pezeshkiandiplomacy
Diplomatic(3)
Fox News - WorldFeb 3

Iran's president strikes softer tone on nuclear talks after Trump's warning that 'bad things would happen'

Following a warning from former President Trump about potential consequences if a deal isn't reached, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has signaled a willingness to negotiate on Iran's nuclear program. Pezeshkian stated that he instructed his Foreign Minister to pursue negotiations, provided a suitable environment free from threats exists. This shift comes after Pezeshkian accused Trump of provoking unrest in Iran. The U.S. envoy is reportedly scheduled to meet with the Iranian Foreign Minister in Istanbul, although Iran prefers Oman as the location for discussions. Despite Pezeshkian's softened tone, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei maintains a hardline stance, accusing the U.S. of wanting to "devour Iran" and orchestrating recent unrest with Zionists.

Mixed toneFactual6 sources
Neutral
New York Times - WorldFeb 3

Iran’s President Backs ‘Fair’ Talks With U.S. as Confrontation Looms

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has expressed support for "fair" negotiations with the United States amidst rising tensions. This announcement comes as talks are expected to take place on Friday in Istanbul between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, though the plans remain tentative. Pezeshkian stated he instructed Araghchi to meet with U.S. officials if a suitable, threat-free environment exists. The potential talks follow weeks of escalating tensions, including U.S. military deployments to the region and threats from President Trump, after anti-government protests in Iran. Pezeshkian authorized the talks following requests from regional governments seeking de-escalation, while Trump has warned of consequences if diplomacy fails.

MeasuredFactual4 sources
Neutral
Associated Press (AP)Feb 3

Iran’s president seeks ‘fair and equitable negotiations’ with the United States

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has instructed his foreign minister to pursue negotiations with the United States, signaling a potential shift in Iran's stance amid heightened tensions following recent domestic unrest. This decision, announced on Tuesday, comes after requests from regional governments and apparent support from Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who previously opposed such talks. Turkey has been facilitating potential talks to be held later this week, while U.S. Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff travels in the region. However, the U.S. has not yet confirmed the talks, and disagreements remain, particularly regarding Iran's nuclear program, which President Trump has included in a list of demands for any talks. Pezeshkian emphasized the need for a suitable environment, free from threats and unreasonable expectations, for the negotiations to proceed.

MeasuredFactual5 sources
Neutral

Key Claims

quote

Trump said the U.S. is talking with Iran and he would like to see a deal negotiated.

— Donald Trump

factual

Pezeshkian instructed his Minister of Foreign Affairs to pursue negotiations if a suitable environment exists.

— Masoud Pezeshkian

quote

Khamenei claimed the recent sedition was orchestrated by Zionists & the US.

— Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

quote

President Masoud Pezeshkian said he supported “fair and equitable negotiations” with the United States.

— Masoud Pezeshkian

factual

Mr. Trump threatened last month to attack the country.

— null

Feb 2, 2026

5 articles|5 sources
iranunited statesnegotiationsnuclear talksus nuclear talks
Diplomatic(4)
South China Morning PostFeb 2

Iran’s President Pezeshkian orders nuclear talks with US as Trump hopeful of deal

Following threats of military action from US leader Donald Trump, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has reportedly ordered the commencement of nuclear talks with the United States. The decision comes amid heightened tensions after Iran's response to recent anti-government protests. According to reports, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is expected to meet with US envoy Steve Witkoff in Istanbul on Friday to discuss a potential agreement regarding Iran's nuclear program. Trump has stated his hope for a deal, while also warning that time is running out for Iran to address concerns about its nuclear ambitions, which the West suspects are aimed at developing nuclear weapons, a claim Iran denies. Both sides have expressed a preference for diplomacy, though Iran has vowed to respond forcefully to any aggression.

MeasuredFactual6 sources
Neutral
Al JazeeraFeb 2

Iran eyes progress towards US nuclear talks as tension eases

In early February 2026, Iran indicated potential progress towards renewed nuclear talks with the United States. Tehran stated it is considering regional proposals aimed at de-escalating tensions with Washington and anticipates a framework for discussions soon. This development follows a period of heightened tensions, including US military deployments and calls from President Trump for a deal on Iran's nuclear program. Indirect negotiations are reportedly underway, with regional countries mediating the exchange of messages. Iranian officials have been in contact with Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkiye regarding these developments, and unconfirmed reports suggest the Iranian president has ordered the resumption of nuclear talks.

MeasuredFactual7 sources
Positive
New York Times - WorldFeb 2

U.S. and Iranian Officials to Meet as Trump’s Threats Loom

U.S. and Iranian officials are expected to meet in Istanbul on Friday to discuss de-escalating tensions between the two countries. The meeting aims to bring together President Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Senior officials from Turkey, Qatar, and Egypt are also expected to attend. The talks represent a rare direct encounter amid heightened tensions, with President Trump threatening military action if Iran doesn't meet his demands regarding its nuclear program, missile development, and support for regional militias. Iran has so far refused to negotiate under threat, raising concerns about potential conflict.

MeasuredFactual6 sources
Neutral
National Security(1)
Fox News - WorldFeb 2

Iran ramps up regional threats as Trump considers talks, and eyewitness accounts of regime violence emerge

As potential nuclear talks between the U.S. and Iran gain traction, Iran has increased its regional threats while suppressing internal dissent. Senior Iranian officials have signaled a willingness to negotiate, possibly in Turkey with Saudi Arabia and Qatar mediating, after President Trump expressed hope for a deal to avert military action. However, Iran has also warned that any attack on its territory would trigger a regional conflict. Experts suggest this dual approach is a deliberate strategy to pressure the U.S. into negotiations and deter regional actors from supporting military action. The U.S. envoy is expected to meet with Israeli leaders to discuss Iran following meetings between Israeli and U.S. defense officials.

Mixed toneFactual4 sources
Negative

Key Claims

factual

Trump has threatened to bomb Iran if it did not yield to his demands.

— null

factual

Iran's leaders have said that they would not negotiate while under threat.

— null

quote

Donald Trump said he was hopeful of a deal to avert military action against Iran.

— Donald Trump

factual

Trump has threatened military action and ordered the dispatch of an aircraft carrier group to the Middle East.

— null

quote

Iran's top diplomat said the government is ready for negotiations with the US on a nuclear deal.

— Iran’s top diplomat