Iranian Minister Stands Firm on Dialogue with U.S., Says Tehran's Power is to Say "No"

Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian reiterates Iran's stance amid ongoing nuclear negotiations.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Iran's top diplomat insisted on Sunday that Tehran's strength comes from its ability to "say no to the great powers", as the country continues negotiations over its nuclear program with the United States and other world powers.

Why it matters

The comments from Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian reflect Iran's defiant stance in the face of international pressure over its nuclear activities, which have raised concerns about the potential development of nuclear weapons.

The details

Amir-Abdollahian's remarks came during a press conference in Dubai, where he reiterated Iran's position that it will not back down from its demands in the nuclear talks. Iran has insisted that sanctions relief is a key part of any deal, while the U.S. has pushed for Iran to curb its nuclear program.

  • The press conference took place on Sunday, February 8, 2026.

The players

Hossein Amir-Abdollahian

Iran's Foreign Minister, who has taken a firm stance in nuclear negotiations with the United States and other world powers.

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What they’re saying

“The power of the Islamic Republic of Iran is to say no to the great powers.”

— Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, Foreign Minister of Iran (myplainview.com)

The takeaway

Iran's unwavering position in the nuclear talks underscores the continued tensions between Tehran and the international community, as the two sides struggle to find a compromise that would lift sanctions on Iran in exchange for curbs on its nuclear program.