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

A recent joint US-Israeli attack on Iran during ongoing negotiations has jeopardized the possibility of a deal between Iran and the US. This attack, similar to one last year, raises doubts about the US's commitment to diplomacy with Iran. Oman's foreign minister, Badr Albusaidi, attempted to salvage the talks by meeting with the US Vice President, JD Vance, and revealing details of a potential agreement, including Iran's agreement to limit uranium enrichment and allow verification access. While a preliminary agreement was within reach, the attack undermines trust and makes future negotiations challenging, particularly given Iran's perspective that diplomacy with the US is ineffective. The potential deal did not address human rights, Iran's ballistic missile program, or its support for proxy forces.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

An Iranian official stated that Iran is open to a nuclear deal with the U.S. if the U.S. demonstrates a willingness to lift sanctions. Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi said the ball is in the U.S.'s court to prove their sincerity. These comments came as Iranian diplomats traveled to Geneva for a second round of indirect talks with the U.S., mediated by Oman. Iran has offered to dilute its uranium stockpile as a sign of compromise, but insists talks focus on the nuclear issue and that zero enrichment is off the table. The U.S. has emphasized that Iran is holding up progress in negotiations. Past diplomatic efforts collapsed in 2025 after military conflict.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is in Geneva for a second round of indirect nuclear negotiations with the U.S., mediated by Oman. The talks follow a previous round in Oman and stalled negotiations last year after a war that included U.S. bombing of Iranian nuclear sites. The U.S. insists Iran cannot enrich uranium, while Iran maintains its program is peaceful but has threatened to pursue nuclear weapons. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated Washington's interest in a diplomatic solution, with envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner also traveling for the talks. The U.S. is also deploying military assets to the Middle East, described as a protective measure. Araghchi is expected to meet with Swiss, Omani, and IAEA counterparts.

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.

Iran launched naval drills in the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, led by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, to assess readiness and rehearse responses to potential threats. The exercises coincided with renewed U.S.-Iran diplomatic efforts in Geneva aimed at reviving nuclear program negotiations. The U.S. military, through CENTCOM, showcased its presence in the region, highlighting the USS Abraham Lincoln conducting continuous flight operations in support of regional security. This display of force occurs amidst a U.S. military buildup ordered by President Trump, who has threatened military action if Iran doesn't agree to a nuclear deal. A second round of talks is expected to be held on Tuesday in Oman.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that any nuclear deal with Iran must require them to relinquish all enriched uranium and prohibit future enrichment. His comments precede a second round of talks between Iranian and US officials in Switzerland. Iran has signaled a willingness to compromise if the US discusses lifting sanctions, though they consider zero enrichment a violation of their rights. The US has increased military presence in the Middle East and expressed a preference for a negotiated settlement. Ahead of the talks, Iran offered to dilute its 60%-enriched uranium, while maintaining that discussions about their nuclear program are contingent on sanctions relief.

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, US President Donald Trump met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House. Following the meeting, Trump stated that "nothing definitive" was reached, but he insisted that negotiations with Iran would continue. This was Trump's sixth time hosting Netanyahu in the US since the start of his second term. The meeting occurred shortly after indirect talks between US and Iranian officials in Oman, aimed at de-escalating potential military conflict. While Netanyahu has advocated for further military action against Iran, Trump expressed hope for a deal but also alluded to potential military action if negotiations fail, referencing previous US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to meet with US President Donald Trump in Washington to discuss Iran. Trump believes Iran is interested in making a deal regarding its nuclear program, following indirect talks between Tehran and Washington in Oman. Netanyahu plans to present Trump with Israel's "principles" for negotiations with Iran, urging for expanded talks. This meeting marks the seventh between Netanyahu and Trump during Trump's second term. The discussions come amid cautious optimism from both Tehran and Washington regarding potential negotiations on Iran's nuclear program.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is meeting with President Trump at the White House on Wednesday amid escalating Middle East tensions and ongoing Iran nuclear negotiations. Netanyahu is expected to urge Trump to pursue a comprehensive deal that halts Iran's uranium enrichment and curbs its support for regional proxy groups. This marks Netanyahu's sixth US visit since Trump's return to office. The meeting occurs as the US increases its military presence in the Middle East, with Trump hinting at further deployments and warning Iran of potential action if a nuclear deal isn't reached. Israel, concerned about the potential for a weak agreement, reserves the right to take military action against Iran.

Israeli officials have reportedly warned that Iran's ballistic missile program is a critical red line that could trigger unilateral military action against Tehran. Prime Minister Netanyahu plans to discuss Israel's priorities, including Iran's missile capabilities, with U.S. officials in Washington. Israeli defense officials have conveyed to the U.S. that they are prepared to act alone to dismantle Iran's missile capabilities, viewing them as an existential threat. Security officials have outlined potential military options to degrade Iran's missile program. An Israeli security expert stated that Iran considers its ballistic missiles a key deterrent and is unlikely to negotiate on them, a stance viewed as a fundamental red line for Israel.

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.

On February 11, 2026, Iran commemorated the 1979 Islamic Revolution with nationwide rallies. The annual event, marking the overthrow of the Shah and the rise of the current regime, occurred amidst heightened tensions. The United States, under President Trump, has deployed warships to the Persian Gulf, threatening military action if nuclear negotiations fail. Simultaneously, Iran is suppressing widespread anti-government protests from the previous month, resulting in thousands of deaths and numerous arrests, including members of the reformist movement. President Pezeshkian acknowledged public sorrow and the need to assist those harmed, while also criticizing Western propaganda and urging unity under Supreme Leader Khamenei.

Iranian security chief Ali Larijani accused Israel of attempting to sabotage nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States. Larijani made the accusation during a visit to Doha, Qatar, on February 12, 2026, stating that Israel aims to destabilize the region and provoke war. He claimed Israel's actions, including a past attack on Qatar, are intended to undermine the talks, which are at a sensitive stage. Larijani emphasized that Iran is only negotiating with the U.S., while Israel is trying to insert itself into the process. The accusation comes as Iran and the U.S. engage in indirect negotiations in Oman, and as Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu met with U.S. President Trump to discuss principles related to Iran.

In February 2026, Iran commemorated the 47th anniversary of its Islamic Revolution with state-organized rallies across the country. The events took place a month after deadly nationwide protests and followed a recent war with Israel and the US. Demonstrators chanted anti-US and anti-Israel slogans, and symbolic coffins of US military commanders were displayed in Tehran. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, threatened with assassination, did not attend but urged participation via video. Other senior officials echoed this call, emphasizing the importance of the anniversary amid internal dissent and external tensions with the US. State media also released a confession letter from a businessman who had been arrested for striking during the protests, stating he would participate in the rallies.

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.

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.

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.

Indirect talks between Iran and the United States were held in Muscat, Oman on February 6, 2026, amid rising tensions and fears of a potential US attack. The Iranian delegation was led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, while the US team included special envoy Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, and US Central Command chief Brad Cooper. Oman's Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi mediated the discussions, aiming to create conditions for resuming diplomatic negotiations. Araghchi described the initial talks as a "good start" but noted a climate of mistrust following a previous US military action. The talks occurred as President Trump considers military options against Iran, with increased US military presence in the region.

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.

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.