Iran Signals Defiance Toward U.S. Pressure as Nuclear Talks Resume

Tehran cautiously reengages in negotiations with the U.S. while facing domestic unrest and military threats

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Iran's foreign minister struck a defiant tone, emphasizing the country's power to resist pressure from global powers, even as Tehran cautiously reengages in nuclear talks with the U.S. The remarks underscored the difficult path ahead for the negotiations, which are taking place against a backdrop of heightened regional tensions and military posturing.

Why it matters

The dispute over Iran's nuclear program has been a major source of tension between Tehran and the West for years. The latest round of talks aims to ease pressure on Iran's economy and stabilize its international standing, but Iran's insistence on preserving its 'sovereign rights' could complicate the negotiations.

The details

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi framed the country's defiance as its ultimate strategic weapon, declaring that Iran's 'atomic bomb' is its power to reject demands from stronger nations. This contrasted with the more conciliatory tone adopted by President Masoud Pezeshkian, who described the recent talks in Oman as a positive development. The negotiations are taking place against a backdrop of escalating military posturing by the U.S., which has repositioned naval assets to the region as a signal of deterrence.

  • The talks in Oman were held on Friday, February 6, 2026.
  • The 12-day Iran-Israel war occurred in June 2025.

The players

Abbas Araghchi

Iran's Foreign Minister who struck a defiant tone, emphasizing Iran's power to resist pressure from global powers.

Masoud Pezeshkian

Iran's President, who described the recent talks in Oman as a positive development and presented dialogue as a path toward easing pressure on Iran's economy and stabilizing its international standing.

Donald Trump

The former U.S. President who ordered strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities during the Iran-Israel war in June 2025.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

Iran's Supreme Leader, who has issued a religious ruling prohibiting the development of atomic bombs.

Brad Cooper

The head of U.S. Central Command, who was present in Oman during the talks, widely interpreted as a reminder of American military reach.

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What they’re saying

“I believe the secret of the Islamic Republic of Iran's power lies in its ability to stand against bullying, domination and pressure.”

— Abbas Araghchi, Iran's Foreign Minister (yournews.com)

“They fear our atomic bomb, while we are not pursuing an atomic bomb. Our atomic bomb is the power to say no to the great powers.”

— Abbas Araghchi, Iran's Foreign Minister (yournews.com)

“After multiple rounds of negotiations, they attacked us in the midst of talks. If you take a step back in negotiations, it is not clear how far it will go.”

— Abbas Araghchi, Iran's Foreign Minister (yournews.com)

“It looks like they want to make a deal very badly.”

— Donald Trump (yournews.com)

What’s next

It remains uncertain whether the negotiations will gain momentum or stall under the weight of mistrust. There is no clear timetable for a second round of talks.

The takeaway

The dispute over Iran's nuclear program continues to be a major source of tension between Tehran and the West. The latest round of talks highlights the delicate balance between engagement and resistance that has long defined Iranian foreign policy, as the country navigates economic strain, public discontent, and the risk of renewed conflict.