Iran must abandon enriched uranium and not produce more, Netanyahu says

On February 16, 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly outlined his demands for any US-Iran nuclear deal as a second round of talks between the US and Iran began in Geneva. Speaking to the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, Netanyahu stated that any agreement must include the removal of all enriched material from Iran and the dismantling of all enrichment infrastructure. He also emphasized the need to resolve the issue of ballistic missiles and called for sustained, effective inspections of Iran's nuclear program. These comments followed a meeting between Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump the previous week, and come after resumed nuclear negotiations between the US and Iran in Oman on February 6.

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.

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.

In February 2026, US President Donald Trump publicly criticized Israeli President Isaac Herzog for not pardoning Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who faces bribery charges. Trump called Herzog "disgraceful" and urged Israelis to pressure him for clemency. These comments follow a White House meeting between Trump and Netanyahu, their seventh since Trump returned to power. Netanyahu's trial, which began in 2020, has been disrupted by regional events. The US has previously requested Herzog pardon Netanyahu, but Trump's recent rebuke signals a more direct intervention in Israeli domestic politics, highlighting the close relationship between the two leaders. The accusations against Netanyahu involve receiving gifts and discussing favorable media coverage.

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.

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.

Activists report that at least 7,000 people have died in Iran due to the government's crackdown on nationwide protests. The protests coincide with the 47th anniversary of Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution. The Iranian theocracy faces pressure from both internal dissent and external forces, including the U.S., as President Trump has suggested sending another aircraft carrier to the Middle East. Amidst the unrest, Iran's president has apologized for the crackdown, acknowledging the "great sorrow" it caused. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts are underway, with U.S. officials meeting with Omani and Israeli counterparts to discuss negotiations with Iran.

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.

Iranian officials have stated that their missile programme is non-negotiable, indicating a potential sticking point in negotiations with the United States. Ali Shamkhani, an adviser to Iran's supreme leader, made this statement during an event marking the 47th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution. The US has pushed for talks on both nuclear issues and regional alliances, including ballistic missile programmes, which Iran wants to focus solely on. A round of mediated talks between the two countries last week failed to yield a breakthrough. Washington is weighing another round of talks, with no date announced, as President Donald Trump has sent mixed signals on the negotiations. The US president has threatened military action if Iran does not meet US demands.

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.

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian has denied that his country is seeking a nuclear weapon during a speech marking the anniversary of the 1979 revolution. The address came after authorities cracked down on mass protests, with Pezeshkian acknowledging "great sorrow" over the actions taken against demonstrators. The protests have triggered an unprecedented crisis for the regime, as negotiations with the US hang in the balance. Pezeshkian sought to convey a message of national unity during his speech, which was addressed to crowds gathered across Iran. The events follow recent demonstrations that roiled the country, highlighting a significant challenge to the Iranian government's authority. The situation remains uncertain, with the future of negotiations with the US remaining unclear.

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.

On February 11, 2026, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian condemned what he described as a "conspiracy from imperial powers" during a rally marking the anniversary of the Islamic revolution. The speech took place amidst celebrations in Iran following weeks of threats of military action from the United States. Pezeshkian specifically criticized intervention by "alien Westerners." The president's remarks were delivered during a period of heightened tension between Iran and Western powers. The anniversary celebrations served as a backdrop for the president to voice his concerns regarding foreign influence.

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.

Iran commemorated the 47th anniversary of its Islamic Revolution amid internal and external pressures. While state media showcased pro-government rallies with anti-American sentiments, reports emerged of citizens protesting the government's crackdown on dissent. President Masoud Pezeshkian stated Iran's willingness to negotiate its nuclear program at the anniversary ceremony in Tehran. He also claimed that Iran is not seeking nuclear weapons, and is ready for any kind of verification. However, the UN's nuclear watchdog has been unable to inspect and verify Iran's nuclear stockpile. Simultaneously, a top Iranian security official visited Qatar after a stop in Oman, countries that have been mediating nuclear negotiations, as the US President Trump suggested sending another aircraft carrier group to the Middle East.

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 Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is traveling to Washington, D.C., to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss principles for negotiating with Iran. The visit, Netanyahu's sixth official visit with Trump in the past year, occurs amid ongoing nuclear talks between the U.S. and Iran in Oman, negotiations in which Israel is not directly involved. Netanyahu aims to influence U.S. policy towards Iran, advocating for principles that he believes are crucial for regional peace and security. Meanwhile, an Iranian official, Ali Larijani, cautioned the U.S. against allowing Netanyahu to undermine the diplomatic efforts with Iran. Netanyahu has previously suggested Iran should fully disarm its heavy weapons.

Ahead of a meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump, Iran has urged the US not to let Netanyahu derail potential nuclear agreement negotiations. Netanyahu is traveling to Washington to persuade Trump to broaden any deal with Iran beyond just its nuclear program, to include its ballistic missile program, support for regional proxies, and human rights record. Iran fears Netanyahu will use the meeting to pressure Trump into abandoning negotiations, particularly due to the involvement of Trump's aides Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, who are reportedly open to a narrower nuclear agreement. Netanyahu plans to present Trump with new intelligence on Iran's military capabilities. The meeting occurs amidst existing tensions between Netanyahu and Trump over stalled peace plans and potential annexation of the West Bank.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

In February 2026, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran's missile program is "non-negotiable" in upcoming talks with the United States, which are set to resume following mediated discussions in Oman. Araghchi warned that Iran would target US military bases in the Middle East if attacked. Despite Trump calling the talks "very good", the US imposed tariffs on countries trading with Iran and announced new sanctions targeting Iranian oil exports. While Araghchi described the initial talks as "a good start," he emphasized the need to build trust. Experts express skepticism about the potential for a new deal, citing strong US pressure and Iranian unwillingness to concede on its nuclear enrichment program, which it considers an "inalienable right."

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.

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.

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.

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.

The US and Iran have begun indirect, high-stakes talks in Oman, mediated by Omani diplomats, regarding Iran's nuclear program. These negotiations are considered a crucial opportunity to de-escalate tensions and potentially prevent a US military strike. While the US initially sought to broaden the discussion to include Iran's missile program and regional activities, Iran insisted on focusing solely on the nuclear dispute, at least initially. The talks occur amidst heightened tensions, including a build-up of US naval presence and warnings from the US regarding potential military action if progress isn't made. Iran seeks assurances that the US isn't using the talks as a pretext for regime change, especially after previous talks were halted due to attacks on Iranian nuclear sites.

U.S. and Iranian officials are scheduled to meet in Muscat, Oman on Friday for the first face-to-face negotiations since the two countries were at war in June. The talks aim to prevent another conflict, with regional leaders pushing for dialogue amidst escalating tensions. President Trump has threatened military action if Iran doesn't meet demands to end its nuclear program, reduce its missile capabilities, and cease support for militant groups. While Secretary of State Rubio wants the talks to include missiles, militias, and human rights, regional diplomats are prioritizing discussions on Iran's nuclear program to avoid immediate deadlock. Some neighbors suggest limiting Iran's enrichment capabilities to a minimal level.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Mediators from Qatar, Turkiye, and Egypt have proposed a framework for Iran-US talks scheduled for Friday in Oman. The framework aims to de-escalate tensions amid a potential US attack following Iranian crackdowns on protestors. Key proposals include Iran halting uranium enrichment for three years, then limiting it to below 1.5 percent, and transferring its current enriched uranium stock to a third country. The framework also suggests Iran agree not to transfer weapons to regional allies or initiate ballistic missile use. A "nonaggression agreement" between Tehran and Washington is also proposed. US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi are expected to attend the talks.

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.

Scheduled US-Iran talks are at risk of collapsing after the US rejected Iran's request to move the location from Turkey to Oman and exclude the presence of other Arab states. Iran insists the talks focus solely on its nuclear program, excluding discussions on its ballistic missile program and other issues the US wants to address. The US Secretary of State stated that any meaningful talks must include discussions on Iran's ballistic missiles, support for terrorist organizations, nuclear program, and treatment of its people. A US envoy will now travel to Doha and return to Washington without meeting Iranian officials. The dispute raises uncertainty about whether the talks can proceed as planned.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Iran's top diplomat signaled the government's readiness for nuclear deal negotiations with the US, potentially taking place in Istanbul later this week. This comes as US warships and aircraft amass in the region. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reportedly ordered the start of these talks, with Donald Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff expected to meet with Iranian representatives, possibly including Abbas Araghchi, alongside representatives from Arab and Muslim countries. The meeting, if it occurs, would be the first between US and Iranian officials since April. Tensions are high due to Iran's crackdown on protesters and the US military buildup in response.

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.