Indirect nuclear talks between Iran and the United States are underway in Geneva this Thursday, February 26, 2026, as the United States undertakes its largest military deployment to the Middle East since the Iraq War. The talks are occurring amid threats of military intervention from U.S. President Donald Trump.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei, stated that the country approaches these conversations with “seriousness and flexibility,” focusing solely on nuclear issues and the removal of sanctions. Baghaei added that Iran has communicated this position to Oman, which is mediating the discussions, and will reiterate its right to “the peaceful use of nuclear energy.”
“Proposals that would eliminate all U.S. Pretexts”
Through Omani mediation, Iran has presented a proposal for a potential nuclear agreement to the United States, according to Iran’s official news agency, IRNA. “The delegation of the Islamic Republic of Iran presented proposals to the American side that would eliminate all U.S. Pretexts regarding Iran’s peaceful nuclear program,” IRNA reported.
The proposal was delivered via Oman’s Foreign Minister, Badr bin Hamad al Busaidi, who previously met with the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, to discuss the agency’s role in inspecting Iranian nuclear facilities should an agreement be reached.
IRNA stated that rejection of the proposal “would confirm the suspicion of the lack of seriousness of the United States in the field of diplomacy and the symbolic nature of its diplomatic position.”
Pezeshkian: “We will not have nuclear weapons at all”
Iranian President Masud Pezeshkian reaffirmed that his country does not seek nuclear weapons, stating, “Our supreme leader [Ali Jamenei] has already declared that we will not have nuclear weapons at all.” He added, “Even if I wanted to move in that direction, I could not, from a doctrinal point of view, I would not be allowed.”
The two sides enter these indirect negotiations with differing positions. Washington insists on the suspension of Iranian uranium enrichment and limitations on its missile program, even as Tehran maintains It’s only willing to reduce its nuclear program in exchange for the lifting of sanctions.
These negotiations occur as the United States has undertaken its largest military deployment to the Middle East since the Iraq War, including two aircraft carriers, several destroyers, and dozens of fighter jets, in an effort to compel Iran to accept its conditions. Iran has warned that it will respond with force if attacked, potentially extending the conflict throughout the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of the current negotiations?
The negotiations are focused solely on nuclear issues and the removal of sanctions against Iran, according to Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei.
What has Iran proposed to the United States?
Iran has presented a proposal, delivered through Omani mediation, that it claims would eliminate all U.S. Pretexts regarding its peaceful nuclear program, according to IRNA.
What is Iran’s position on developing nuclear weapons?
President Masud Pezeshkian stated that Iran’s supreme leader, Ali Jamenei, has declared that Iran will not pursue nuclear weapons.
Given the current tensions and diverging positions, what path will these negotiations ultimately accept?
Related reading