Iran, UN Nuclear Watchdog Meet Ahead of US Talks

Discussions come before second round of negotiations between Iran and US over Tehran's nuclear program

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Rafael Grossi, director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, in Geneva on Monday, ahead of a second round of negotiations with the United States over Iran's nuclear program. The talks in Geneva on Tuesday will be hosted by Oman, which has previously facilitated discussions between Iran and the US.

Why it matters

The meeting between Iran and the UN nuclear watchdog is a significant step after Iran suspended all cooperation with the IAEA following a conflict with Israel last June. The upcoming talks between Iran and the US are seen as an important opportunity to potentially reach a deal on Iran's nuclear program and sanctions relief.

The details

Araghchi said he would also meet with Oman's Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi. Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi signaled that Tehran could be open to compromise on the nuclear issue, but is looking for an easing of international sanctions led by the US. The US is also hosting talks between envoys from Russia and Ukraine in Geneva this week.

  • The meeting between Araghchi and Grossi took place on Monday, February 16, 2026.
  • The second round of US-Iran talks will be held on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 in Geneva.

The players

Abbas Araghchi

Iran's Foreign Minister.

Rafael Grossi

Director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Badr al-Busaidi

Foreign Minister of Oman, which is hosting the US-Iran talks.

Majid Takht-Ravanchi

Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister.

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What they’re saying

“I am in Geneva with real ideas to achieve a fair and equitable deal. What is not on the table: submission before threats.”

— Abbas Araghchi, Foreign Minister (X)

“The ball is in America's court. They have to prove they want to have a deal with us. If we see a sincerity on their part, I am sure that we will be on a road to have an agreement.”

— Majid Takht-Ravanchi, Deputy Foreign Minister (BBC)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This meeting between Iran and the UN nuclear watchdog, as well as the upcoming talks between Iran and the US, represent an important opportunity to potentially reach a deal on Iran's nuclear program and sanctions relief, though significant challenges remain.