# Iran and US Agree on ‘Guiding Principles’ in Second Round of Nuclear Talks
In a rare moment of diplomatic optimism amid escalating tensions, **Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced that Tehran and Washington have reached agreement on key ‘guiding principles’** following the second round of nuclear negotiations in Geneva on February 17, 2026.[1][2] This breakthrough, while not guaranteeing a full deal, marks tangible progress after the first round hosted by Oman in Muscat on February 6.[1]
The talks unfolded against a backdrop of **intensified US military deployments** in the Middle East, including a second aircraft carrier strike group and over 50 advanced fighter jets like F-35s, F-22s, and F-16s relocated to the region in the past day.[1][2] President Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened force, linking it first to Iran’s crackdown on protesters and now to its nuclear advancements, even suggesting regime change as an ideal outcome.[1] Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei fired back, vowing the Islamic Republic’s endurance after 47 years and warning of capabilities to sink US warships in the Gulf.[1]
## Constructive Dialogue Amid Threats
Araghchi described the Geneva session as **”serious, constructive, and positive,”** highlighting “significant progress” over the prior meeting and a “more defined path forward.”[1][2] Speaking to Iranian state television, he explained: “Ultimately, we were able to reach broad agreement on a set of **guiding principles**, based on which we will move forward and begin working on the text of a potential agreement.”[1][2] The parties committed to drafting texts independently, exchanging them, and scheduling a third round—though no date was set.[1][2]
Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi, who mediated, echoed this positivity, noting the talks concluded “with meaningful progress toward identifying shared objectives and pertinent technical matters.” He added that efforts focused on “outlining several guiding principles for a conclusive deal,” with “clear next steps” ahead despite substantial work remaining.[2]
From the US side, officials confirmed **”progress” was made**, though “numerous details remain to be addressed.”[2] A US representative told Axios that Iran’s delegation plans to return within two weeks with proposals to “close some of the gaps in our positions.”[2] Trump’s envoys, special envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner, represented Washington.[1]
Araghchi urged the US to halt threats of force, emphasizing Tehran’s “seriousness in using result-oriented diplomacy” to protect Iranian interests and regional peace.[1] Ahead of the talks, he met Omani counterpart Badr Albusaidi and IAEA chief Rafael Grossi—the first such IAEA engagement since Iran suspended cooperation post its June war with Israel.[1]
## Core Issues: Nuclear Limits vs. Sanctions Relief
Iran insists discussions stay laser-focused on its **nuclear program**, rejecting US pushes on ballistic missiles or support for proxies like Hamas, Hezbollah, and Houthis.[1] A senior Iranian official stressed success hinges on Washington’s commitment to **lifting sanctions**—described as “part and parcel” of any deal—and avoiding “unrealistic” demands.[1] Crippling sanctions have ravaged Iran’s economy for decades, exacerbated recently.[1]
Tehran denies nuclear weapons ambitions but has enriched uranium to near-weapons-grade levels, barred inspectors, and bolstered missiles—moves Israel deems existential threats.[1] Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, fresh from White House talks with Trump, voiced “general skepticism” but noted Trump’s belief in forcing a “good deal” encompassing nukes, missiles, and proxies.[1]
## Broader Geopolitical Context
These nuclear parleys coincide with **US-hosted Russia-Ukraine talks** in Geneva, ahead of the fourth anniversary of Moscow’s invasion.[1] Trump’s return to the presidency has reshaped dynamics; his pre-talks warning—”I don’t think they want the consequences of not making a deal”—contrasted sharply with Araghchi’s post-meeting hopefulness.[1]
The **guiding principles** represent a framework for text-based negotiations, but experts caution against over-optimism. Iran’s history of obfuscation and US demands for verifiable curbs remain flashpoints.[1][2] Araghchi himself tempered expectations: “This does not imply that a quick agreement is feasible, at least the process has commenced.”[2]
## Implications for Regional Stability
Progress could ease sanctions strangling Iran’s economy, potentially stabilizing oil markets and curbing proxy escalations from Yemen to Lebanon.[1] Yet failure risks **Trump’s threatened military option**, with US assets now massed nearby.[1][2] Khamenei’s defiance underscores Tehran’s resolve: “You will not succeed either.”[1]
Israel watches warily, given Iran’s vows to destroy it and post-war IAEA rift.[1] Netanyahu’s comprehensive deal vision aligns with Trump’s “maximum pressure” era but tests the fragile Geneva momentum.
As drafts circulate, the world awaits the third round. For now, **guiding principles** offer a diplomatic lifeline in a powder keg region—proving talks can advance even as threats loom.[1][2]
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Original source: BBC News – Iran says ‘guiding principles’ agreed with US at nuclear talks
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