Peace ‘within reach’ as Iran agrees no nuclear material stockpile: Oman FM

Oman's Foreign Minister announced on February 28, 2026, that indirect talks between the US and Iran, brokered by Oman in Geneva, have made significant progress towards a peace deal. A key breakthrough is Iran's agreement to never stockpile enriched uranium, preventing the creation of a nuclear bomb. Iran will also degrade existing stockpiles to the lowest level, converting them into irreversible fuel. The agreement includes full verification by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The Foreign Minister believes a comprehensive deal resolving all issues between Iran and the US is achievable within months, if diplomacy is allowed to proceed.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

Amid rising tensions in the Gulf, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian vowed that Iran would not yield to US pressure regarding its nuclear program. His statement followed threats from US President Donald Trump, who is considering military strikes to force a deal, and the increasing US military presence in the region. Indirect talks between Iran and the US resumed in Oman and Switzerland this month, but failed to achieve a breakthrough despite positive descriptions from both sides. While Iran aims to finalize a draft deal soon, residents in Tehran are concerned about the possibility of war, fearing further economic hardship and uncertainty.

Indirect nuclear talks between Iran and the US, mediated by Oman, took place in Geneva on Tuesday, February 18, 2026. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reported "good progress," stating that both sides reached a broad agreement on guiding principles for future negotiations. While acknowledging that narrowing the gaps between the countries will take time, he indicated a clear path forward with potential draft agreements to be exchanged. US Vice President JD Vance confirmed the meeting but emphasized that Iran has not yet acknowledged or worked through the red lines set by the US president. Vance stated that the US prefers diplomacy but retains the option of military action if diplomacy fails. Iran seeks relief from US sanctions, including the ban on oil purchases.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is traveling to Geneva for a second round of indirect nuclear negotiations with the United States. The talks, mediated by Oman, follow a previous round held in Oman last week. These discussions aim to address Iran's nuclear program, which has been a point of contention with the US. Tensions remain high, as previous talks broke down after reported Israeli actions against Iranian nuclear sites and threats of force from former US President Donald Trump. Concerns exist that any escalation could lead to a broader regional conflict, particularly given Iran's threats of retaliation and the potential for involvement from Gulf Arab countries.

An Iranian minister told the BBC in Tehran that Iran is willing to compromise on its nuclear program if the U.S. is willing to lift sanctions. This statement comes amidst stalled negotiations and accusations from U.S. officials that Iran is hindering progress. Indirect talks between the U.S. and Iran have occurred in Oman and are scheduled to continue in Geneva. Iran has offered to dilute its 60%-enriched uranium, a point of concern for the U.S., in exchange for sanctions relief. While the deputy foreign minister confirmed Iran is open to discussing its nuclear program, he did not specify whether Iran expects all or only some sanctions to be lifted.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu met on Wednesday to discuss ongoing US nuclear talks with Iran. Netanyahu, seeking to influence the next round of discussions after negotiations in Oman, aimed to broaden the talks beyond Iran's nuclear program to include its missile arsenal and other security threats. Trump stated that he insisted negotiations with Iran continue to see if a deal can be reached, informing Netanyahu that a deal would be his preference. Trump has threatened strikes on Iran if no agreement is reached, while Tehran has vowed to retaliate. The meeting, closed to the press, lasted nearly three hours.

Following indirect nuclear talks between Iran and the U.S. in Oman, a top Iranian security official, Ali Larijani, traveled to Oman. Larijani, secretary to Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, met with Omani officials, including Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, to likely discuss the next steps after the initial talks. Iranian media reported Larijani was delivering an important message, but later stated Oman handed him a letter without specifying its origin. Larijani also criticized Israel's "destructive role" in the talks ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's visit to Washington, D.C. Both U.S. and Iranian officials have described the initial talks as positive and suggested further discussions will occur. Larijani was also scheduled to travel to Qatar.

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.

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.

President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu will meet at the White House on Wednesday for high-stakes talks primarily focused on Iran. The meeting occurs as the U.S. weighs diplomatic options against potential military action, while Israel seeks to influence the scope of any negotiations. Trump has indicated Iran "very much wants to reach a deal," but warned of potential consequences if an agreement isn't reached. Netanyahu intends to present Israel's position on essential principles for negotiations, emphasizing regional peace and security. The meeting follows resumed U.S.-Iran talks in Oman amid ongoing U.S. military presence in the Gulf. While the U.S. views Iran as a global security challenge, Israel is concerned about Iran's nuclear program, missile arsenal, and regional proxies.

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.