Iran Meets UN Nuclear Watchdog Ahead of Second Round of US Talks

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Iran's top diplomat met with the head of the U.N. nuclear watchdog agency in Geneva, ahead of a second round of negotiations with the United States over Tehran's nuclear program. Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi signaled that Iran could be open to compromise on the nuclear issue, but is looking for an easing of international sanctions led by the United States.

Why it matters

The talks between Iran and the U.S. are seen as a crucial step in resolving the long-standing dispute over Iran's nuclear program. A potential deal could ease tensions in the region and lead to the lifting of crippling economic sanctions on Iran. However, significant differences remain, including Iran's demand for sanctions relief and the U.S. insistence on limiting Iran's nuclear activities.

The details

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Rafael Grossi, director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, ahead of the second round of U.S.-Iran talks in Geneva. Araghchi said he would also meet with Oman's Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi, as Oman is hosting the talks. Iran also launched a second naval drill in the Strait of Hormuz, the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, which it said would test its intelligence and operational capabilities in the region.

• The talks between Iran and the U.S. are scheduled for Tuesday, February 18, 2026.
• Iran launched its second naval drill in the region on Monday, February 17, 2026.

What’s next

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