US and Iran Resume High-Stakes Nuclear Talks in Geneva

Negotiations take place amid rising military tensions between the two nations.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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A new round of nuclear negotiations between the United States and Iran has begun in Geneva, marking a renewed attempt to defuse one of the world's most enduring and volatile diplomatic disputes. The discussions are taking place at the Omani mission in Geneva and represent the second formal round of engagement this month, following months of escalating tensions over Iran's nuclear program, its crackdown on anti-government protests, and a growing U.S. military presence in the Middle East.

Why it matters

The high-stakes diplomacy between the U.S. and Iran over the nuclear issue has long been a source of global concern, with the potential for military confrontation always looming. The renewed talks in Geneva represent a critical opportunity to ease tensions and find a diplomatic solution, but significant differences remain between the two sides.

The details

The U.S. delegation includes Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, both of whom were involved in earlier indirect talks in Oman. While both Washington and Tehran have struck a cautiously positive tone, major sticking points remain, including the scope of the negotiations and the issue of sanctions relief. Iran insists that any agreement must recognize its right to limited uranium enrichment and deliver meaningful sanctions relief, while the U.S. has sought to broaden the talks to include Iran's ballistic missile program and regional activities.

  • The discussions began on February 17, 2026.
  • The talks represent the second formal round of engagement this month.

The players

Donald Trump

The former U.S. president who suggested that Iran's leadership is now more motivated to reach an agreement to avoid further confrontation.

Abbas Araqchi

Iran's Foreign Minister, who met with the head of the UN nuclear watchdog in Geneva a day before the talks and said he was seeking a 'fair and equitable deal.'

Steve Witkoff

The U.S. Middle East envoy who is part of the U.S. delegation for the Geneva talks.

Jared Kushner

Trump's son-in-law, who is also part of the U.S. delegation and was involved in earlier indirect talks in Oman.

Marco Rubio

The U.S. Secretary of State, who cautioned against expecting quick breakthroughs and said the diplomatic process would be extremely challenging.

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What they’re saying

“I don't think they want the consequences of not making a deal.”

— Donald Trump (Air Force One)

“What is not on the table: submission before threats.”

— Abbas Araqchi, Iran's Foreign Minister (X)

“There's an opportunity here, but it's going to be hard.”

— Marco Rubio, U.S. Secretary of State (Visit to Hungary)

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

The high-stakes diplomacy between the U.S. and Iran over the nuclear issue remains a delicate and complex process, with both sides seeking to balance the potential for a diplomatic breakthrough with the ever-present threat of military confrontation. The renewed talks in Geneva represent a critical opportunity, but significant differences and challenges remain.