US and Iran Set for Nuclear Talks in Geneva

Oman announces next round of indirect negotiations between the two countries will take place on February 26th.

Feb. 22, 2026 at 8:19pm

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The United States and Iran are set to hold the next round of indirect nuclear negotiations in Geneva, Switzerland on Thursday, February 26th. The talks, mediated by Oman, aim to reach a nuclear agreement and continue a series of discussions that began in April 2025. Oman's Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi confirmed the upcoming meeting, expressing optimism for a "positive push" towards finalizing a deal.

Why it matters

These negotiations are taking place against a backdrop of heightened tensions and a significant U.S. military presence in the Middle East. The outcome of the talks will have significant implications not only for the U.S. and Iran, but also for regional stability and the future of the international non-proliferation regime.

The details

The confirmation from Oman follows statements from Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who indicated his expectation of meeting with U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff in Geneva. Key points of contention in the negotiations include the level of Iran's uranium enrichment and the size of its stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Araghchi stated that his U.S. counterparts had not requested zero enrichment as part of the latest discussions, which contrasts with previous public statements made by U.S. officials.

  • The next round of indirect negotiations between the U.S. and Iran will take place on Thursday, February 26, 2026.
  • The initial round of these negotiations was held in Muscat, Oman in April 2025.

The players

Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi

Oman's Foreign Minister, who confirmed the upcoming meeting in Geneva and expressed optimism for a positive outcome.

Abbas Araghchi

Iran's Foreign Minister, who indicated his expectation of meeting with U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff in Geneva.

Steve Witkoff

U.S. Special Envoy, who is expected to meet with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Geneva.

Masoud Pezeshkian

Iranian President, who stated that "all necessary preparations have been made" for any potential scenario and that Iran is committed to peace and stability in the region.

Ali Larijani

A member of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, who is participating in the discussions.

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What they’re saying

“I'm pleased to confirm the upcoming meeting in Geneva on February 26th. We remain optimistic for a positive push to go the extra mile towards finalizing the deal.”

— Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, Oman's Foreign Minister

“There is a good chance for a diplomatic solution regarding the nuclear issue. It's the sole topic under discussion.”

— Abbas Araghchi, Iranian Foreign Minister

What’s next

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The takeaway

These negotiations represent a critical juncture in the ongoing efforts to resolve the complex and long-standing dispute over Iran's nuclear program. The outcome will have far-reaching implications for regional stability and the global non-proliferation regime.