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.

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.

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.

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 US military is reportedly preparing for potential sustained strikes against Iran if ordered by President Trump, raising concerns about escalating conflict. This development coincides with ongoing diplomatic efforts between the US and Iran, mediated by Oman in Geneva on Tuesday. Secretary of State Rubio acknowledged Trump's preference for a deal but noted its difficulty. The US has been increasing its military presence in the Middle East, including deploying an additional aircraft carrier and troops. Trump has publicly suggested the possibility of regime change in Iran, though he has expressed reluctance to deploy ground troops, indicating potential air and naval strikes.

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.

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.

President Trump launched the "Board of Peace" on Thursday in Washington, D.C., pledging $10 billion to the initiative. The institution, focused initially on rebuilding Gaza, was unveiled amidst rising tensions with Iran, including the deployment of US military assets to the region. Trump will retain veto power and leadership of the board, even after leaving office. Countries seeking permanent membership must contribute $1 billion. The initiative has faced criticism for its lack of transparency, and the source and allocation of the US funding remain unclear. The launch occurred at a renamed former US Institute of Peace building.

In February 2026, UpFront interviewed Gaza author and policy analyst Jehad Abusalim about the situation in Gaza following the ceasefire. Despite the ceasefire, Israeli strikes continue, resulting in Palestinian casualties. The discussion centered on the United States President Donald Trump's "Board of Peace" and its Gaza reconstruction plans. A key concern is the lack of Palestinian representation in the Board's leadership, raising questions about whether the plans will address the needs and perspectives of Gazans. Abusalim discussed the ongoing strikes, Trump's plans, and the future prospects for the territory, emphasizing the importance of Palestinian voices in shaping Gaza's future.

The United States and Iran will hold a second round of talks in Geneva this week regarding Tehran's nuclear program, according to the Swiss Foreign Ministry. Oman will host the talks, following the first round of indirect discussions held there on February 6th. These talks follow warnings from U.S. President Donald Trump that failure to reach an agreement would be "very traumatic." Similar talks broke down last year amidst escalating tensions, including military actions. Trump has repeatedly threatened military force to compel Iran to constrain its nuclear program, while Iran has vowed to retaliate against any attack.

Oman will host indirect talks between the United States and Iran in Geneva next week, with Switzerland offering its services to facilitate dialogue. The US is pushing Iran to agree to a deal limiting its nuclear program. This follows previous indirect talks held in Oman on February 6, involving Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US envoy Steve Witkoff, mediated by Omani officials. The US has recently increased military pressure on Iran, with President Trump stating that a change of government in Iran would be beneficial. These talks come amid heightened tensions and military posturing in the region.

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has suspended some operations at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, Gaza, due to security breaches. The suspension, which occurred in January but was disclosed recently, was prompted by reports of armed men roaming the hospital, intimidating staff and patients, and suspected weapons movement. MSF stated that these actions posed serious security threats, compromising the hospital's neutrality as a civilian space. Nasser Hospital, one of Gaza's few functioning hospitals, has been treating hundreds of patients and war-wounded daily. MSF has expressed its concerns to relevant authorities, emphasizing that hospitals must remain neutral.

In February 2026, despite ongoing diplomatic talks, the Pentagon is actively preparing for a potential military conflict with Iran. This follows President Trump's threat to strike Iran if a nuclear deal isn't reached. The Pentagon is bolstering its forces in the Middle East, including deploying missile destroyers, missile defense systems, and submarines. This buildup aims to provide both offensive and defensive capabilities, addressing concerns about the vulnerability of American troops and allies in the region to Iranian retaliation. The preparations are occurring while diplomatic efforts continue between the US, Iran, Israel, and Arab nations.