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

Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi met with US Vice President JD Vance in Washington, DC on Friday, amid rising tensions and fears of a potential US military strike on Iran. Al Busaidi, a key mediator, reported "significant, important, and unprecedented progress" in the indirect US-Iran nuclear talks facilitated by Oman. The meeting focused on these negotiations, which recently continued in Geneva. While the US demands Iran dismantle its nuclear infrastructure, limit missiles, and cease support for regional allies, Iran has shown flexibility only regarding uranium enrichment. The meeting occurs as the US has increased its military presence in the Middle East, including the arrival of the USS Gerald R Ford in Haifa.

Amid rising tensions between the US and Iran, the UK has temporarily withdrawn staff from its embassy in Tehran, which will continue to operate remotely. The US embassy in Israel has also advised some non-emergency staff to leave. These actions follow warnings from multiple countries, including China, India, and Canada, advising their citizens to leave Iran due to potential hostilities. The US and Iran recently held indirect talks in Geneva, mediated by Oman, in an effort to de-escalate the situation surrounding Iran's nuclear ambitions. While Oman cited "significant progress" and Tehran hailed "good progress," the US has not yet issued an official response. The US has also ordered a significant military build-up in the Middle East, while Iran has vowed to respond forcefully to any attack.

Amid escalating tensions and the threat of a potential US strike on Iran, the US State Department has urged American citizens to leave Israel immediately while commercial flights are available. Non-essential government personnel and their families have been authorized to depart. The warning follows inconclusive talks between the US and Iran regarding Tehran's nuclear program. Oman's foreign minister is in Washington to persuade the Trump administration to avoid military intervention, arguing that progress has been made in negotiations. The US Ambassador to Israel has urged embassy staff to book flights out of the country as quickly as possible, fearing high demand.

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.

Talks between Iran and the US concluded in Geneva with officials citing significant progress, but Iranian state television reported that Tehran will continue enriching uranium and rejected proposals to transfer it abroad. The negotiations, facilitated by Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi, resulted in a next meeting set for Vienna within days. Senior US officials described the third round as "positive," while Iran pushed for the lifting of international sanctions. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi presented a draft proposal with key demands, but details remain unclear. The talks come amid tensions between the two nations over Iran's nuclear program and US President Donald Trump's demands for curbs on enrichment. A next meeting is scheduled to take place in Vienna soon.

Indirect talks between the US and Iran regarding Iran's nuclear program concluded in Geneva on February 26, 2026, with claims of "significant progress" but without concrete details. Mediated by Oman, the talks involved Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US envoy Steve Witkoff, with Jared Kushner also participating. Iran presented written proposals, and further technical discussions are scheduled for Vienna next week. The IAEA director general, Rafael Grossi, also participated, as the UN watchdog will be responsible for nuclear monitoring if an agreement is reached. The talks aim to resolve differences and avoid war, with a deadline looming as the IAEA board meetings approach in early March.

The US and Iran are engaging in a third round of indirect nuclear talks in Geneva, mediated by Oman, on Thursday, February 26, 2026. The US delegation includes envoy Steve Witkoff, while Iran's representation is led by foreign minister Abbas Araghchi. These talks are viewed as a crucial opportunity for diplomacy amidst rising tensions, as the US has increased its military presence in the Middle East, deploying aircraft and warships. The US aims to delay Iran's nuclear program, while Iran seeks a peaceful resolution, warning that conflict would be devastating. The talks occur against a backdrop of economic hardship in Iran, with rising prices for essential goods.

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.

The US has expanded travel warnings to several countries, including Australia, as tensions between Washington and Iran continue to escalate. The Australian government has advised dependants of diplomats in Israel and Lebanon to leave both countries, while offering voluntary departures for dependants of diplomats in the UAE, Qatar, and Jordan. The US has also suspended non-essential staff from its embassy in Lebanon. Airlines have scaled back flights to the region, with KLM temporarily suspending flights between Amsterdam and Tel Aviv. Several countries, including Cyprus, Germany, India, Poland, Serbia, and Sweden, have advised their nationals to leave Iran. These measures come ahead of critical talks over Iran's nuclear program, which began on Wednesday, amid mounting concerns about a potential military conflict between the US and Iran.

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 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.

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.

Armed police and security forces have been deployed to Iranian universities to suppress ongoing student protests against Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. For four days, students have engaged in demonstrations, leading to clashes with state-backed militias and closures of in-person classes at some universities. Protesters are chanting slogans demanding the release of political prisoners and criticizing the government. These protests coincide with upcoming nuclear program talks in Geneva between Iranian and US officials. Iran's attorney general has called for decisive action against the protesters, accusing them of being influenced by enemies of the state. The unrest occurs as the US increases its military presence in the region, potentially impacting the outcome of the nuclear negotiations.

Indonesia has accepted the deputy commander position in the U.S.-led International Stabilisation Force (ISF) for Gaza, committing up to 8,000 troops to the region. The ISF, totaling approximately 20,000 personnel, aims to stabilize Gaza with Indonesia focusing on civilian protection and humanitarian aid. Other contributing nations include Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, and Albania, with Egypt and Jordan training a new Palestinian police force. While Indonesia emphasizes its non-combat role, analysts suggest the ISF's broader objectives, such as disarming Palestinian armed groups like Hamas, could pose political challenges to Indonesia's pledge. Advanced Indonesian units are expected to deploy within two months to assess conditions and security risks.

The US and Iran are expected to hold nuclear talks in Geneva this week, signaling a potential diplomatic solution amid heightened tensions. Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi indicated a possibility of a "fast deal" while also warning of self-defense if attacked. Simultaneously, the Iranian government faces renewed internal pressure as student demonstrations reignited at universities in Tehran and Mashhad, commemorating victims of past protests. The government's handling of previous unrest, including disputed death tolls and refusal of a UN-led inquiry, faces scrutiny. Despite initial vocal support for protesters, the US focus has shifted to Iran's nuclear program, with a significant military presence building in the region.

Oman's Foreign Minister announced that the US and Iran will hold further negotiations in Geneva on Thursday. The talks aim to finalize a deal amid rising tensions and a US military build-up in the region. Iran's Foreign Minister stated that Tehran is ready to implement a "full monitoring mechanism" to ensure the peaceful nature of its nuclear program. He emphasized Iran's right to peaceful nuclear energy, including enrichment, under the Non-Proliferation Treaty, citing national dignity and investment in the technology. Despite concerns and US pressure, Iran insists on maintaining its enrichment program while cooperating with the IAEA.

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.

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.

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.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on February 20, 2026, that a diplomatic solution with the US is achievable regarding Iran's nuclear program, despite ongoing tensions. Speaking to US media, Araghchi criticized the US military build-up in the Middle East as "unnecessary and unhelpful," arguing it complicates reaching a fair agreement. He emphasized that Iran is prepared for peace and responds to respect, noting previous pressure tactics from the US have failed. These statements come amidst ongoing negotiations between the US and Iran, described as positive by both sides, even as the US continues to deploy military assets to the region. President Trump acknowledged considering limited strikes against Iran, while Araghchi warned against such actions.

According to Iran's foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, the U.S. did not demand a halt to uranium enrichment during nuclear deal talks in Switzerland this week, contradicting the Trump administration's public stance. Araghchi stated Iran is developing confidence-building measures to ensure its nuclear program remains peaceful. However, a White House official disputed this, reiterating Trump's demand that Iran not have the capacity to enrich uranium or build nuclear weapons. While Iran reportedly offered to suspend enrichment for three to five years in exchange for sanctions relief, the U.S. has not confirmed this offer. The level of enrichment Washington is willing to permit remains a key point of contention.

US President Donald Trump stated he is considering a limited military strike on Iran to pressure its leaders into a deal to curb their nuclear program. This statement follows increased US military presence in the region, including the deployment of warships and fighter jets. The US and European allies suspect Iran is developing nuclear weapons, a claim Iran denies. US and Iranian officials have been meeting in Switzerland, with Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stating a draft agreement proposal will be presented to the US in the coming days. Trump indicated a decision on a deal or military action would be made within approximately ten days.

Amidst ongoing nuclear talks between the United States and Iran, President Trump stated on Friday that he is considering limited military strikes against Iran. This comes as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated that a proposed deal could be ready within days. Araghchi stated that serious negotiations on the text could begin within a week, potentially leading to a conclusion. Tensions between the two countries have increased as the Trump administration seeks concessions from Iran and has expanded its military presence in the Middle East. Both countries have expressed readiness for war if diplomatic efforts regarding Iran's nuclear program fail.

In 2026, FIFA and the Board of Peace, established under US President Donald Trump, partnered to attract investment for sustainable development in conflict-affected regions, starting with Gaza. FIFA aims to raise $75 million for football-related projects in Gaza, including building mini-pitches, full-size pitches, a FIFA academy, and a new national stadium. The initiative seeks to rebuild the territory after Hamas disarms and Israeli troops withdraw. The program will also emphasize job creation, youth participation, organized leagues for boys and girls, community engagement and the stimulation of local commercial activities. Challenges remain regarding Hamas' disarmament, troop withdrawal, the size of the reconstruction fund, and humanitarian aid delivery.

In February 2026, President Trump's special envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, are engaged in negotiations to resolve conflicts involving Iran, Ukraine, and Gaza. Witkoff and Kushner held talks in Geneva regarding the Iranian nuclear program and the war in Ukraine. They are scheduled to meet in Washington for the first meeting of Trump's "Board of Peace" to address the conflict in Gaza and the Israeli-Palestinian issue. Despite the envoys' efforts, concrete progress in resolving these complex situations remains limited. Talks with Iran, mediated by Oman, have yielded a vague agreement on "guiding principles," but details are unclear amidst a U.S. military buildup.

World leaders are gathering in Washington D.C. for the inaugural meeting of Donald Trump's Board of Peace, an initiative aimed at ending the war in Gaza. Representatives from over 45 countries are expected, though major European allies like the UK, Germany, and France declined invitations due to concerns about the board's operations and potential conflict with the UN. The meeting follows a US-backed ceasefire plan approved by the UN Security Council, which includes a two-year mandate for the Board to oversee Gaza's demilitarization and reconstruction. Key unresolved issues include Hamas disarmament, Israeli troop withdrawal, and humanitarian aid. While board members have pledged $5 billion for reconstruction, this is a fraction of the estimated $70 billion needed. The summit occurs amid a fragile ceasefire and heightened tensions in the Middle East, including joint Russian-Iranian navy drills in the Gulf of Oman.

In February 2026, Donald Trump announced at the first Board of Peace meeting that nine member nations pledged $7 billion for Gaza reconstruction. The US will contribute an additional $10 billion to the Board of Peace. The funds aim to foster stability in the region following Israel's war on Gaza. Five countries—Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, and Albania—committed troops to an international stabilization force led by a US general, with an Indonesian deputy, to be deployed in Gaza, starting in Rafah. Egypt and Jordan will train police officers. The force aims to train a new police force of 12,000 and have 20,000 troops.

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 Gaza, Palestinians have expressed skepticism regarding the inaugural meeting of the "Board of Peace," held on February 19, 2026. They view the board, initiated by Donald Trump, as a potential mechanism to further Israel's occupation of Palestinian territory. The concerns stem from a belief that the board will serve as "another gateway to the occupation of Palestine." The reaction highlights existing tensions and distrust surrounding international efforts aimed at resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Palestinians fear the board's actions will exacerbate the existing situation in Gaza.

A recent Israeli military assessment indicates Hamas is strengthening its control over Gaza by integrating loyalists into government and security positions. This development casts doubt on the viability of President Trump's peace plan, which hinges on Hamas relinquishing its weapons in exchange for Israeli withdrawal. Trump's "Board of Peace" is holding its first meeting to oversee Gaza's transitional governance. Hamas claims willingness to cede administrative control to a US-backed committee, but states Israel has prevented committee members from entering Gaza. Despite this, an Israeli official dismissed any future role for Hamas, claiming the group is finished as a governing authority in Gaza.

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.

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.

The UN Security Council moved its meeting on Gaza and the West Bank to Wednesday to avoid conflicting with President Trump's inaugural Board of Peace meeting on Thursday. Several foreign ministers are expected to attend the UN session in New York, which was requested by Arab and Islamic nations to address the fragile Gaza ceasefire and Israeli settlement expansion. Trump announced that his Board of Peace member states pledged over $5 billion for Gaza humanitarian aid and reconstruction, along with personnel for a stabilization force, contingent on Hamas demilitarization. Israel joined the Board of Peace on February 11 after initial concerns about the involvement of Qatar and Turkey.

Donald Trump's Board of Peace is scheduled to convene in Washington D.C. for its inaugural meeting. The board, a key foreign policy initiative, aims to address global conflicts, with an initial focus on solidifying the fragile ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. Trump envisions the board playing a significant role, potentially governing and rebuilding Gaza and even challenging the UN Security Council's conflict resolution role. However, the board faces challenges in Gaza, including ongoing violence, lack of disarmament by Hamas, and stalled progress for a Palestinian governing committee. Experts emphasize the need for tangible improvements on the ground to maintain the board's credibility. Over two dozen nations, including Israel, have joined as founding members.

In February 2026, US President Donald Trump's "Board of Peace" is scheduled to meet in Washington D.C. The board has pledged five billion dollars for the rebuilding of Gaza and the deployment of thousands of foreign troops. The stated purpose of these initiatives is to promote peace. However, critics argue that the proposed plan is insufficient to address the needs of the region. Al Jazeera's Nour Hegazy is reporting on the upcoming meeting and the criticisms surrounding the board's proposals. The report examines the disparity between the board's rhetoric and the perceived reality of its plan.

Despite ongoing indirect nuclear talks between Iran and the US in February 2026, Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei criticized the US and cast doubt on the possibility of a meaningful agreement. Khamenei accused the US of attempting to overthrow the Iranian government since 1979 and rejected demands for Iran to halt uranium enrichment. His statements contrast with those of Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who reported constructive discussions in Geneva and agreements on "guiding principles." Khamenei's remarks suggest a continued hardline stance against the US, despite diplomatic efforts to revive a nuclear deal. The Supreme Leader's skepticism highlights the challenges in achieving a breakthrough in the negotiations.

A second round of Iran-US nuclear talks, mediated by Oman in Geneva, concluded after four hours with Iran describing the meeting as "more constructive." The talks aimed to discuss terms for Iran to constrain its nuclear program under UN supervision. While no immediate statement was released by the US delegation, Iran reported reaching an agreement on "general guiding principles" that could lead to further meetings. Iran focused its offer on diluting its enriched uranium stockpile and providing access to UN inspectors, while refusing to discuss its ballistic missile program or regional activities. Despite progress, Iran cautioned that reaching a final agreement would take time, with the next step being the exchange of draft agreements and scheduling another meeting. The talks occurred amid heightened tensions, including US military presence in the region and Iranian military exercises.

The United States and Iran will hold a second round of nuclear talks in Geneva. The talks are scheduled to take place sometime after the first round of talks that occurred in Muscat, Oman on February 6, 2026. The meetings involve discussions regarding Iran's nuclear program. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director-General Rafael Grossi in Geneva on February 16, 2026, likely in preparation for the upcoming discussions with the US. These negotiations aim to address concerns and potentially reach an agreement regarding Iran's nuclear activities.

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.

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.

Iran commenced naval exercises in the Strait of Hormuz, Persian Gulf, and Oman Sea on Monday, February 16, 2026. The drills, overseen by Gen. Mohammad Pakpour, head of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, were reported by state TV. The timing of the exercises coincides with upcoming nuclear talks between the US and Iran scheduled to take place in Geneva on Tuesday. The drills involved naval forces operating in strategically important waterways. The purpose of the exercises was not explicitly stated in the report.

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.

On February 16, 2026, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director-General Rafael Grossi in Geneva, Switzerland. The meeting took place ahead of a second round of talks with the United States. The purpose of the meeting was likely to discuss Iran's nuclear program and cooperation with the IAEA. This meeting follows previous discussions between Araghchi and Grossi, including one in Cairo in September 2025. The talks are part of ongoing efforts to address concerns about Iran's nuclear activities.

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.

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.

On Monday, February 16, 2026, Iran conducted live military exercises in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for oil and gas shipments. The drills, led by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps navy, were framed as a response to potential security threats. This action occurred a day before scheduled nuclear talks between the United States and Iran in Geneva. The exercises are viewed by analysts as a show of force amid rising tensions, as President Trump has threatened military action and expressed support for regime change if a nuclear deal is not reached. The U.S. has also increased its military presence in the Middle East, including deploying an aircraft carrier and warships.

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.

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.

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.

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.