Iran Meets with UN Nuclear Watchdog Ahead of U.S. Talks

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says he has 'real ideas' for a 'fair and equitable deal' with the U.S.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Rafael Grossi, director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, ahead of a second round of negotiations with the United States over Tehran's nuclear program. Araghchi said he would also meet with Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi of Oman, which is hosting the U.S.-Iran talks. This comes as Iran launched a second naval drill in weeks, testing its intelligence and operational capabilities in the Strait of Hormuz, the Persian Gulf, and the Gulf of Oman.

Why it matters

The talks between Iran and the U.S. are crucial as the two countries try to reach a deal to limit Iran's nuclear program and ensure it does not develop nuclear weapons. The U.S. has maintained military pressure on Iran, including sending an additional aircraft carrier to the region, while Iran has conducted naval drills in the strategically important waterways.

The details

Iran's top diplomat met with the head of the U.N. nuclear watchdog agency on Monday, ahead of a second round of negotiations with the United States over Tehran's nuclear program. Iran also launched a second naval drill in weeks, testing its intelligence and operational capabilities in the Strait of Hormuz, the Persian Gulf, and the Gulf of Oman. This comes as the U.S. has increased military pressure, including sending an additional aircraft carrier to the region.

  • On Monday, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Rafael Grossi, director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency.
  • Iran launched a second naval drill in weeks on Monday, testing its intelligence and operational capabilities in the Strait of Hormuz, the Persian Gulf, and the Gulf of Oman.
  • The U.S. and Iran are set to hold a second round of negotiations in Geneva on Tuesday.

The players

Abbas Araghchi

The Iranian Foreign Minister who met with the head of the U.N. nuclear watchdog agency and said he has 'real ideas' for a 'fair and equitable deal' with the U.S.

Rafael Grossi

The director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency who met with the Iranian Foreign Minister.

Badr al-Busaidi

The Foreign Minister of Oman, which is hosting the U.S.-Iran talks in Geneva.

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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, Iranian Foreign Minister (X)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.