2025–2026 Iran–United States negotiations

2025–2026 Iran–United States negotiations and conflicts
Steve Witkoff Jared Kushner Brad Cooper Abbas Araghchi Ali Larijani X
Date	Round 1: April 12, 2025 (2025-04-12) – June 13, 2025 (2025-06-13) (62 days) Round 2: February 6, 2026 (2026-02-06) – February 28, 2026 (2026-02-28) (22 days) Round 3: March 30, 2026 (2026-03-30) – April 7, 2026 (2026-04-07) (8 days) Islamabad Talks: April 11, 2026 (2026-04-11) – April 12, 2026 (2026-04-12) (1 day)
Venues	Al Alam Palace, Muscat, Oman (12 April 2025) Embassy of Oman, Rome, Italy (19 April 2025) Geneva, Switzerland (15 February 2026) Islamabad, Pakistan (Islamabad Talks on 11 and 12 April 2026)
Participants	United States Special Envoy Steve Witkoff Director of Policy Planning Michael Anton CENTCOM commander Brad Cooper Special Envoy Jared Kushner Iran Iranian Minister of Foreign Affairs Abbas Araghchi Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council Ali Larijani X
Follows	2026 United States military buildup in the Middle East 2025–2026 Iranian protests Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (2015−2018) United States withdrawal from the JCPOA (2018) Red Sea crisis (2023−present) Iranian financial crisis (2024−present)
Precedes	Twelve-Day War 2026 Iran war
Key points

On April 12, 2025, Iran and the United States began a series of negotiations aimed at reaching a nuclear peace agreement, following a letter from U.S. president Donald Trump to Iranian supreme leader Ali Khamenei. Trump set a two-month (60 day) deadline for Iran to reach an agreement. After the deadline passed without an agreement, Israel attacked Iran, igniting a war between the two countries.

The first round of high-level meetings was held in Oman on April 12, 2025, led by U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi. At the time, both the Iranian Foreign Minister and the White House said that the discussions held were constructive. The second round of Omani-mediated talks took place in Rome on April 19, 2025, again with indirect discussions between Witkoff and Araghchi. This was followed by a third high-level round in Muscat around a week later, and an expert-level meeting to develop a framework for a possible nuclear agreement, led by Michael Anton for the U.S. and by Majid Takht-Ravanchi for Iran.

The U.S. military had been building up its presence in the Middle East as the threat of war escalated. U.S. bases throughout the region accommodate approximately 50,000 American troops, as well as the biggest air force presence in the Middle East since the 2003 invasion of Iraq. As part of the peace proposals, Iran offered to build at least 19 additional reactors, suggesting that contracts for these projects could help revive the U.S. nuclear industry. Araghchi's planned speech announcing this, however, was cancelled.

On May 27, Trump said both sides were close to finalizing an agreement, with strong inspections. Araghchi stated he was unsure whether a deal was imminent, while Khamenei's advisor, Ali Shamkhani, said Trump's desired control over the Iranian nuclear program was a "fantasy". Israel reportedly threatened to preemptively attack Iranian nuclear installations, although this was denied by Benjamin Netanyahu. On May 31, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported that Iran had amassed a record amount of military-grade enriched uranium. On June 11, U.S. embassies in Iraq and other Arab states began to evacuate personnel in response to Iranian threats on American bases. The Houthis threatened retaliation against the United States should an attack be launched on Iran. President Trump was reportedly provided with a range of options for an attack on Iran by CENTCOM. The UK has issued a threat advisory for ships in the Persian Gulf. The IAEA declared Iran in breach of its non-proliferation obligations on June 12.

The following day, Israel launched large-scale attacks on Iran. Israel's attacks targeted Iran's top military leaders and nuclear scientists. Following the attacks, Iran pulled out and suspended nuclear talks indefinitely. The United States also carried out a series of strikes on Iranian nuclear sites and negotiations between the United States and Iran were subsequently suspended. They resumed in early 2026 after large-scale protests in Iran. Meanwhile, the U.S. military buildup in the Middle East continued as the threat of war loomed.

On February 28, 2026, the United States and Israel launched large-scale strikes on Iran beginning the 2026 Iran war. The attacks included the assassination of Khamenei, as well as the assassination of Ali Larijani, a key figure in the negotiations. On April 7, 2026, Iran and the United States announced a temporary two-week ceasefire.

Background

Main article: Iran–United States relations during the second Trump administration

Donald Trump

Ali Khamenei

Iran's nuclear program has been a focal point of international scrutiny for decades. Although the country suspended its formal nuclear weapons program in 2003, in December 2024, the UN nuclear watchdog IAEA reported enrichment to levels approaching weapons-grade. It also found an unprecedented stockpile of highly enriched uranium without a credible civilian purpose, giving Iran the capacity to produce enough fissile material for multiple bombs on short notice. The program has received external assistance, including from Pakistan and North Korea, with the latter supplying both missiles and uranium. In January 2025, the exiled opposition group National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) alleged that Iran is developing long-range missiles under the IRGC, with ranges up to 3,000 kilometres (1,900 mi). Iran said its nuclear activities were for peaceful purposes (the creation of nuclear energy). Senior adviser Kamal Kharrazi stated that Iran has the technical capacity to build nuclear weapons but is constrained by a fatwa issued by Ali Khamenei, adding that this stance could change if the country's existence were threatened.

Analysts and researchers say that a nuclear-armed Iran poses significant global security risks and undermines the stability of the Middle East. IAEA chief Rafael Grossi warned that an Iranian nuclear weapon could trigger broad nuclear proliferation, as other countries, particularly in the Middle East, may seek similar capabilities in response. Concerns also exist that Iran's nuclear assets could fall into the hands of extremist factions due to internal instability or regime change. Additionally, Iran's success in acquiring nuclear weapons could encourage other regional powers to seek their own nuclear arsenals. The potential transfer of nuclear technology or weapons to radical states and terrorist organizations heightens fears of nuclear terrorism. Scholars argue that a nuclear-armed Iran could feel emboldened to increase its support for terrorism and insurgency—core elements of its strategy—while deterring retaliation through its newfound nuclear leverage.

In response to Iran's nuclear program, the international community imposed sanctions that severely impacted its economy, restricting its oil exports and limiting access to global financial systems. In 2015, however, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) was signed, imposing strict limitations on Iran's nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. In 2018, the United States withdrew from the agreement, with President Donald Trump stating that "the heart of the Iran deal was a giant fiction: that a murderous regime desired only a peaceful nuclear energy program". The U.S. also contended that the agreement was inadequate because it did not impose limitations on Iran's ballistic missile program, and failed to curb its backing of proxy groups. Prior to the second Trump administration, the Biden administration held talks with Iran that were ultimately unsuccessful.

In February 2025, Trump reinstated the maximum pressure campaign to push Iran into a new nuclear deal, prevent its development of nuclear weapons, and counter its regional influence. He said he would not tolerate an "Iranian nuclear weapons capability", and did not rule out supporting military action if diplomacy failed, with his team stating that "all options are on the table" when it comes to Iran. In April 2025, Atomic Energy Organization of Iran chief Mohammad Eslami declared Iran plans to build more nuclear power plants.

Trump's letter to Khamenei

On March 7, 2025, Trump announced that he had written a letter to Ali Khamenei, expressing his desire to initiate new nuclear negotiations with Iran. He warned that failure to accept the proposal could expose Iran to serious military consequences. Trump also imposed additional sanctions on the country and pledged to reduce Iran's oil exports to zero. According to Emirati political scientist Abdulkhaleq Abdullah, the letter included demands that Iran fully dismantle its nuclear program, halt all enrichment, and end support for regional proxy groups, with compliance required within two months. In exchange, the U.S. offered to lift sanctions and normalize relations, while warning that failure to negotiate would result in military strikes.

Initially, Khamenei did not acknowledge the letter, indicating that Iran would not meet the new expectations. During March 2025, Iran and the U.S. engaged in indirect exchanges over Trump's letter, with both sides issuing threats. Khamenei reportedly changed his mind about the negotiations after his advisors warned that the threat of war with the United States and the deepening economic crisis could bring down the government. By the end of March, the Iranian leadership had sent a reply to the letter expressing readiness for nuclear negotiations.

Participants

2025

Participants of the high-level negotiations:

• U.S. — Steve Witkoff, the White House special envoy leading the American side of the negotiations with Iran.
• Iran — Abbas Araghchi, the Iranian foreign minister who insisted on indirect talks and has published an op-ed in The Washington Post to appeal to Trump.

Participants of the expert-level negotiations (starting first during the third round):

• U.S. — Michael Anton, the director of Policy Planning, as well as representatives from the Department of State and Department of Treasury.
• Iran — Majid Takht-Ravanchi, the deputy foreign minister who previously had been involved in the 2015 nuclear negotiations.

There were no European negotiators. France stated its intention to participate but was not included in the talks.

2026

Second Round Brad Cooper and Jared Kushner and Ali Larijani were added to talks. Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey joined the meditations effort. Abbas Araghchi contacted the Ministries of Foreign relations of UAE and Pakistan and Oman via phone as well.

2025 negotiations and developments

1st round

The first round was held on April 12, 2025, in Muscat, Oman. The talks were led by U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi; each delegation was in separate rooms, with messages relayed through Omani mediators. The discussions were described as constructive. Afterwards, the leaders of both negotiating teams spoke briefly in person. An Iranian news outlet reported that during the talks in Oman, Iran proposed a three-step plan to reach a deal with the United States:

1. Iran would agree to temporarily lower its uranium enrichment to 3.67% in return for access to frozen financial assets in the United States and authorization to export its oil.
2. Iran would permanently halt high-level uranium enrichment, restore inspections by the UN nuclear watchdog IAEA, and commit to implementing the Additional Protocol, allowing for surprise inspections at undeclared sites. These steps would be taken if the United States lifts further sanctions and persuades Britain, Germany, and France not to trigger the snapback of UN sanctions against Tehran.
3. The U.S. Congress would approve the nuclear agreement and Washington would lift both primary and secondary sanctions, while Iran would transfer its stockpiles of highly enriched uranium to a third country.

Moreover, Iran had reportedly proposed steps to deescalate tensions, including a pledge to disarm and freeze the activities of Hamas, the Houthis, Hezbollah, and Hashd al-Shaabi. U.S. envoy Witkoff reportedly welcomed the proposals presented by the Iranian delegation in Muscat, which were unexpected by the Iranian side. In early April, Iranian military advisor and security council politician Shamkhani warned that Iran would expel IAEA inspectors if threats for foreign aggression persisted. Later that month, IAEA chief Rafael Grossi visited Iran and met Araghchi. Grossi said they were "in a very crucial stage of these important negotiations" and that he worked to facilitate the process.

2nd round

The second round of Omani-mediated talks in Rome occurred on April 19, 2025, one week after the initial meeting in Muscat, the capital of Oman in four hours. Once again, the indirect discussions were led by Araghchi and Witkoff, with messages conveyed through Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi. Afterwards, U.S. president Trump said that he was open to meeting Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Following the second round of talks, the Israeli Air Force reportedly conducted drills simulating an Iranian missile attack on Israeli airbases. Meanwhile, Iran was reported to be constructing a large security barrier around two underground tunnel complexes linked to its main nuclear facility. Russia promised to fund the construction of a nuclear reactor in Iran. China, Russia, and Iran held a joint meeting with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on April 24 to discuss Iran's nuclear program.

3rd round

The third round of high-level negotiations took place on April 26, 2025, along with the first round of expert-level talks. The high-level talks were described as serious and productive, with both sides aiming for an agreement based on mutual respect. Araghchi reported progress but noted that key differences remained. Trump's special envoy Witkoff aimed to finalize the deal within 60 days; however it was reported that mistrust between the parties could result in resistance from Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and could undermine this objective. Another critical issue was Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium and its potential destruction, for which the U.S. would agree to lift economic sanctions. While Iran intended to retain its enriched uranium stockpile within its borders, the U.S. insisted it must be transferred to a third country. Additionally, Iran sought guarantees to protect itself in the event that the U.S. withdraws from or violates the agreement.

Post-third round developments

France warned that if no deal was reached on Iran's nuclear program, it was prepared to trigger the snapback mechanism to reinstate U.N. sanctions that were lifted under the JCPOA. Along with Britain and Germany, France could activate this process before the JCPOA expired in October, which would permanently cut Iran off from key technology, investment, and European markets, dealing a severe blow to its economy; however, Iranian foreign minister Araghchi later warned the European parties against initiating snapback sanctions, cautioning that such a move would severely harm the negotiations — a warning he repeated several times in the following weeks. Iran proposed holding further talks with European participation, while also offering investment opportunities.

On April 30, the U.S. Treasury sanctioned 6 Chinese chemical components companies connected to Iran. On May 1, defense secretary Hegseth posted that Iran will pay for supporting Houthis attacks on merchant ships in Red Sea crisis. President Trump warned of secondary sanctions on entities buying any oil or petrochemicals from Iran. Rubio warned to walk away from nuclear enrichment. Araghchi canceled the May 4 meeting citing a "technical reason". Trump has called for the full dismantling of nuclear enrichment. Iran then unveiled a new ballistic missile and threatened to hit U.S. military bases. Revolutionary Guard General Salami warned that IRGC would open hell gates on invaders.

The fourth round of negotiations, originally scheduled for May 3, 2025, in Rome, was postponed amid rising tensions. Iranian officials cited U.S. sanctions, military action against the Houthis, and what they described as "contradictory behaviour and provocative statements" by Washington as contributing factors, while stating that a new date would depend on the U.S. approach. Oman, which mediated previous rounds, referred to logistical reasons for the delay. A source familiar with the matter indicated that the United States had not confirmed its participation, and that the timing and venue for the next round remained unconfirmed. The negotiations were taking place amid daily rolling blackouts across Iran due to ongoing electricity shortages. Supporters of Iran's nuclear program argue that the country requires nuclear energy for electricity generation.

On May 7, 2025, ahead of the 2025 visit by Donald Trump to the Middle East, U.S. officials reported that president Donald Trump had decided that United States federal agencies would refer to the Persian Gulf as the "Arabian Gulf" or the "Gulf of Arabia" and had plans to make it official during a planned visit to Saudi Arabia later in May. This plan received outrage and condemnation from Iranians and the Iranian government. The proposed change was opposed by Iranians across the political spectrum, who displayed rare unity in rejecting the possible American move. Later that day, however, Trump told reporters that he had yet to make a decision whether to use "Arabian Gulf", stating, "I don't want to hurt anybody's feelings", appearing to acknowledge Iran's fierce opposition to that name. He said he would decide while on his visit, yet no announcement was made. JD Vance said that the deal would allow Iran to rejoin the global economy.

Republican Senators Lindsey Graham and Tom Cotton warned the next day that any future U.S.–Iran nuclear agreement would require Senate approval to be durable, and that such approval would only be possible if Iran fully dismantled its enrichment capabilities and addressed its missile and terrorism activities. A group of Senate Republicans called for the inclusion of a 123 Agreement, which would impose strict safeguards and require full dismantlement before any cooperation. While such agreements regulate peaceful nuclear cooperation, experts noted that applying one to Iran would be highly unusual due to its history of proliferation violations and ongoing IAEA investigations. According to a well-informed source, a 123 Agreement was included in the current talks with Iran.

Fox News released a video titled "Satellite images show alleged Iranian nuclear weapons facility" on May 9. The video allegedly revealed a previously unknown Iranian nuclear weapons site, a 2,500-acre facility referred to as the "Rainbow Site", in the Semnan province. According to Fox News, it has operated for over a decade under the cover of the chemical company "Diba Energy Siba", and is involved in tritium extraction, a process with almost no civilian or commercial uses, but known to enhance nuclear weapons. Araghchi rejected the report, calling it Israeli-driven propaganda aimed at disrupting the negotiations with the U.S. He accused the National Council of Resistance of Iran of spreading this "fabricated report".

The next day, Witkoff stated that Iran's uranium enrichment facilities must be dismantled for Washington to believe its claim of not seeking nuclear weapons. He added that Iran must permanently end its enrichment program, stressing that this requires dismantling its facilities at Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan, and ensuring there is no weaponization. He emphasized that if the next round of talks with Iran failed to yield results, they would end and the U.S. would pursue alternative options. During his speech on May 10, Khamenei supported chants of "death to America".

4th round

The fourth round of talks were held on May 11 in Oman prior to Trump's visit to the Middle East. The talks were high-level only, focusing on a broader framework, with technical negotiators not participating. The talks lasted for more than three hours, with both sides calling the discussions difficult but constructive and agreeing to continue. According to unnamed Iranian officials, Iran proposed a joint nuclear-enrichment project with regional Arab states and U.S. investment as an alternative to dismantling its nuclear program. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff denied this was being discussed. The plan's feasibility remained uncertain given regional tensions and the lack of diplomatic ties between Iran and the U.S. for 45 years.

On May 12, the U.S. imposed new sanctions targeting Iranian nuclear research with possible military applications, followed days later by sanctions on individuals and entities in China and Iran over support for Iran's ballistic missile program. On May 14, 52 senators and 177 congressmen wrote a letter to Trump to reject any deal that would allow Iran to continue uranium enrichment, stating that no agreement should leave open a path to nuclear weapons. On May 14, Iran ratified the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime as part of its efforts to meet the FATF Action Plan requirements for improving its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing system.

Trump's May 2025 proposal and Iranian response

During Donald Trump's trip to the Middle East in mid-May, he mentioned Iran on several occasions. In Saudi Arabia, he called Iran the most destructive force in the Middle East and stated that Iran's leaders had focused on stealing their people's wealth to fund terror and bloodshed, tearing the region down. During that same visit though, he offered an olive branch to Iran, expressing his strongest willingness so far to engage in negotiations. The move was seen as a shift in U.S. foreign policy, emphasizing that the U.S. does not see any nation as a permanent enemy. During his next stop, Trump appealed to Qatari's emir to use his influence to help persuade Iran to reach a deal with the U.S. over its nuclear program, calling the situation perilous and stressing the need for a solution.

Khamenei advisor Shamkhani responded to Trump's offer and said that the Iranian government was ready to sign the nuclear deal in exchange for the quick removal of all financial sanctions, whilst at the same time criticizing Trump's rhetoric and ongoing threats, saying: "He speaks of an olive branch, but we see only barbed wire." Trump confirmed that the U.S. was very close to reaching a nuclear deal with Iran and that he preferred a peaceful solution over military action; however, Iranian officials denied having received a new U.S. proposal and insisted they would not give up their right to enrich uranium. Although both countries expressed a preference for diplomacy, sharp disagreements persisted and continued to block progress toward an agreement, increasing the risk of a military confrontation.

On May 16, Trump sent Iran a nuclear proposal and warned that swift progress was necessary to avoid serious consequences. The Trump administration has increasingly demanded that Iran abandon uranium enrichment, making this a central issue. Khamenei rejected the proposal, dismissing this U.S. demand as "excessive and outrageous". He accused Trump of lying about seeking peace and declared him unworthy of a response. Khamenei also reiterated that Israel is "cancerous tumour" that must be uprooted. On the same day, Trump urged Iran to "move quickly" toward a deal, Iran held talks with European powers in Istanbul about its nuclear negotiations with the U.S., with Iranian foreign minister Araghchi cautioning that reinstating UN sanctions, which had been lifted under the 2015 nuclear agreement that expired in October, could lead to "irreversible" consequences. On May 20, CNN reported Israel was preparing to strike Iranian nuclear facilities, an action that would mark a clear break with Trump's efforts. Iran warned that any Israeli attack would be met with a “devastating and decisive response.” The day after, the U.S. imposed new measures targeting Iran's construction sector, linked to the IRGC, and restricted 10 materials tied to its nuclear and military programs.

5th round

The fifth round of talks, held on May 23 in Rome, ended without a breakthrough, though both sides agreed to continue discussions. U.S. officials described the talks as constructive but emphasized that significant differences remained, particularly over the demand from the U.S. that Iran dismantle its uranium enrichment program. Iran maintained that while it was open to limiting enrichment levels, giving up enrichment entirely was unacceptable and would collapse the negotiations. After these mixed signals, Trump was optimistic and said that progress had been made.

In the weeks leading up to the fifth round, tensions between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu had increased over the U.S. decision to engage in nuclear talks with Iran, which Israel viewed as a serious threat to its security and regional interests. Israel strongly opposed the negotiations, lobbying against diplomatic efforts and threatening unilateral military action, including potential strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, a position critics warned could endanger diplomacy and heighten regional tensions. Iran had reportedly strengthened its air defense systems and increased military investments in preparation for a possible U.S. or Israeli attack if negotiations failed. Iran also ordered a large amount of Chinese solid-fuel components for ballistic missiles. Iranian foreign minister Araghchi warned that any war against Iran would cause widespread destruction across the Middle East, and that the entire region would suffer if conflict erupted.

On May 26, Austria's domestic intelligence service reported that Iran was pursuing an advanced nuclear weapons program with ballistic missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads over long distances. Iran rejected the intelligence report as "false and baseless", calling it an attempt to create "media hype" against Iran and lacking any credibility. Iran also denied having agreed to a three-year pause of its enrichment program. On June 2, Reuters reported that Iran was preparing to decline the U.S. proposal. After speculation that Iran might be allowed limited uranium enrichment under a possible deal, Senator Schumer demanded that Witkoff testify before Congress to clarify whether any such side agreement existed. The administration publicly maintained that Iran would not be permitted to enrich uranium. Trump also declared firmly that the deal would prohibit it. Khamenei responded that uranium enrichment is central to Iran's nuclear program and he rejected U.S. demands to halt it. Although the American government had suspended new sanctions on Iran on June 2, just four days later it imposed secondary sanctions on 10 individuals and 27 financial investment companies and trading firms.

Iran's rejection of the U.S. proposal

On June 9, Iran rejected the Trump administration's proposal for a new nuclear deal but announced plans to present a counteroffer through Omani mediators. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei called the U.S. proposal unacceptable and not aligned with the ongoing negotiations. The main points of disagreement included Iran's right to continue domestic uranium enrichment, the handling of its stockpiles of highly enriched uranium, and the conditions for lifting sanctions against Iran. While Trump demanded the full dismantlement of Iran's enrichment program, Iranian leaders insisted that enrichment was non-negotiable. The latest U.S. offer reportedly included assistance in building nuclear power reactors and allowed limited enrichment until a regional consortium facility becomes operational. A central demand from Iran was that sanctions relief must bring tangible economic benefits. Baghaei emphasized that this includes guarantees of restored banking and trade ties with other countries before any sanctions are lifted. He also urged the international community to address Israel's undeclared nuclear arsenal and prevent it from derailing negotiations.

On June 10, Trump stated in a Fox News interview that Iran was becoming "much more aggressive" in the negotiations. The following day, Iranian defense minister Aziz Nasirzadeh warned that if negotiations with the U.S. collapse and conflict erupts, Iran will target American bases in the region. He stated that all U.S. bases in nearby countries are within reach. Trump also repeatedly threatened Iran with military action if no deal was reached. U.S. defense secretary Hegseth announced that the U.S. military was getting ready in case the talks fail. On June 12, IAEA found Iran non-compliant with its nuclear obligations for the first time in 20 years. The IAEA stated that Iran's repeated failure to fully address questions about undeclared nuclear material and activities amounted to non-compliance. It also raised concerns over Iran's enriched uranium stockpile, which could be used for both reactor fuel and nuclear weapons. Iran dismissed the resolution as politically motivated, and declared plans to build a new enrichment site and install advanced centrifuges.

Twelve-Day War

2025 Israeli strikes

Further information: Twelve-Day War

Beginning on June 13, 2025, Israel struck multiple targets across Iran with the stated goal of preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons. The attacks damaged key nuclear facilities and killed several of Iran's top military leaders. Among those injured was Khamenei's political advisor Ali Shamkhani, who oversaw negotiations between the United States and Iran. Following the attack, the sixth round of U.S.-Iran talks, scheduled in Oman on June 15, were indefinitely suspended. In an initial response to the strikes, Trump stated that the U.S. “of course” supported Israel, adding that the 60-day deadline for the negotiations had just expired.

On June 17, the White House explored a meeting between envoy Witkoff and Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi to revive negotiations and prevent further conflict. Trump used the threat of U.S. military capabilities, including bunker-buster bombs, as leverage. He escalated demands for Iran's unconditional surrender while warning of additional military action. Iran responded by making counter-threats. Trump alternated between urging diplomacy and signaling support to continue the pressure.

2025 U.S. strikes

Further information: 2025 United States strikes on Iranian nuclear sites

On June 21, following orders from Trump, the U.S. bombed the Fordow uranium enrichment facility, the Natanz nuclear facility, and the Isfahan nuclear technology center in Iran. On June 24, Trump declared a ceasefire. Senior American officials emphasized that they do not want the conflict with Iran to escalate.

Afterwards, U.S. envoy Witkoff stated that the U.S. and Iran were engaging in both direct and mediated discussions aimed at returning to negotiations for a comprehensive peace agreement. He also emphasized that the American position requires Iran to halt all uranium enrichment—a stance the White House had not consistently maintained during earlier rounds of negotiations. Trump said later that he had recently considered limited sanctions relief to aid Iran's recovery, but tied any step to a more conciliatory tone from Iran and he ended with an appeal for peace.

In mid-August, Iran's foreign minister Araghchi said that the conditions were not yet in place for "effective" nuclear talks with the United States, while stressing that Tehran will not sever cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog IAEA. Given the strikes occurred subsequent to an IAEA report suggesting Iran was in breach of its non-proliferation obligations, Iran had passed new legislation so any further inspections had to be approved by their Supreme National Security Council, although IAEA inspectors had been unable to visit Iranian sites, since the strikes.

2026 negotiations

See also: 2026 United States military buildup in the Middle East § Negotiations, and Prelude to the 2026 Iran conflict § Negotiations

On October 13, 2025, Trump stated that the United States was ready to reach an agreement with Iran. He expressed optimism that an agreement could be achieved. In response, Iranian foreign minister Araghchi said Tehran would consider any proposal from the United States that was "fair and balanced", although he noted that no concrete framework for talks had yet been presented and that messages between the two sides were exchanged through intermediaries. Despite the conciliatory language from Trump, his administration maintained a firm stance towards Iran, and observers noted that significant barriers still stood in the way of improved relations between the two nations. During earlier nuclear negotiations, the Trump administration pressed Iran to completely dismantle its nuclear and missile programs, a demand that Iran refused. Ahead of the talks, Iran increased regional diplomacy, with Ali Larijani visiting Moscow, Abbas Araqchi holding consultations in Istanbul, and Qatar's Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani traveling to Tehran. Turkey, Egypt, and Qatar worked to arrange the U.S.–Iran talks, with Iran requesting Oman as a neutral venue.

1st round

On February 6, 2026, the United States and Iran held indirect talks in Muscat, Oman, mediated by Oman's foreign minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi. American officials cast doubt over the efficacy of the talks, with Secretary of State, Marco Rubio saying that "I'm not sure you can reach a deal with these guys" and Vice President JD Vance expressed frustration over the fact that the Supreme Leader, who ran the country, did not participate in the negotiations, thereby placing obstacles on the path of diplomacy. The Iranian delegation was led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, while U.S. representatives included Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner and CENTCOM commander Admiral Brad Cooper.

Despite some initial false reports about direct talks, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi did not meet face to face with any members of the U.S. delegation and the entire session was mediated by Oman's foreign minister. The discussions focused on Iran's nuclear program and were described externally by Iranian officials as a "good start", while at the same time those leading Friday prayers within Iran dismissed the prospects of diplomacy in their sermons, a message likely coming from the office of Ali Khamenei. Both sides agreed to continue diplomatic engagement despite deep mistrust and disagreements over the agenda. Araghchi noted that further negotiations were agreed upon, though their date and manner were yet to be determined. According to Le Monde, Iran "sought to extend the process" of the negotiations, "aiming to delay the possibility" of a U.S. attack" while the U.S. "sought to secure an agreement as soon as possible."

Iranian government hardliners criticized the negotiations, while the government offered to dilute the remaining 60% enriched uranium in exchange for all sanctions being lifted. President Trump stated a second aircraft carrier would be sent to the Persian Gulf if a deal was unreachable. U.S. missile launchers were erected in Qatari's Al Udeid airbase in defense preparation. The Chinese YLC-8B UHF-Band 3D long-range anti-stealth surveillance radar was reportedly deployed in Iran. Statements made by Iranian officials within Iran appeared to be much more hardline than those made abroad during the negotiations, pointing to a government that was unsure how much it was ultimately willing to compromise. Araghchi criticized Germany's Chancellor Merz after he called for more pressure on Iran tweeting "We are ready to further increase the pressure and to engage in talks that serve the purpose of a swift end to the Iranian nuclear program".

2nd round

Ahead of the second meeting round Larijani met with Qatari's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani for talks. Abbas Araghchi stated that they were negotiating for a nuclear peace deal better than Obama's JCPOA. He said that Iranian missiles were not the subject of the negotiations and should not be targeted by sanctions. Larijani stated that when a deal was reached, it could subsequently be expanded. Trump stated talks for a deal would resolve very quickly in the following month.

Iran's rejection of the U.S. proposal

On February 17, Ali Khamenei declined to accept the nuclear peace agreement negotiation conditions set out by Trump and said that Trump won't be capable of deposing the Islamic Republic. He added that the United States Navy could be sunk, and he called for the restoration of trust and calm within the country. On March 2, U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff revealed that Iran began recent nuclear talks by insisting on its "inalienable right" to enrich uranium, rejecting a U.S. proposal for zero enrichment, and even boasting that its 460 kilograms of 60% enriched uranium could produce 11 nuclear bombs. Some experts suggested that the U.S. negotiators misunderstood the Iranian proposal, including Iran's offer to suspend uranium enrichment for several years and why Iran did not trust the U.S. offer of nuclear fuel fuel supplies.

Ultimatum

On February 20, president Trump gave Iran a 10-day deadline to reach a deal or else the United States would attack Iran. On the same day, the Iranian minister of oil and energy said Iran would possibly sell oil to America if a nuclear deal was reached.

3rd round

On February 25, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that a "historic" agreement with the United States to avert military conflict was "within reach" ahead of renewed talks in Geneva. He emphasized that diplomacy must be prioritized to avoid further escalation. Despite high tensions and a significant U.S. military buildup in the region, Araghchi reiterated on social media that Iran holds a "crystal clear" position against developing nuclear weapons, while defending its right to peaceful nuclear technology.

A third round of indirect talks mediated by Omani foreign minister Badr Al Busaid took place on February 26, at the residence of Oman's ambassador to the UN in Geneva, Switzerland. The talks happened in the morning and evening, with a pause for the American negotiators to meet a Ukrainian delegation, and focused on Iran's nuclear program. In the midst of this round of negotiations, it was reported by Wall Street Journal that the sides were far from reaching a deal as the U.S. made tough demands. According to the Wall Street Journal report, "Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner said Iran must destroy its three main nuclear sites—at Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan—and deliver all of its remaining enriched uranium to the U.S., officials said."

According to Bloomberg News, the Americans left Geneva disappointed with the results of the third round of talks; however, officials from Iran and the Oman mediators were more optimistic. Oman's Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi hailed "significant progress" in a post on X. The Bloomberg report however also stated that "US and Iranian officials ended the latest round of nuclear talks in Geneva on Thursday by agreeing to reconvene as soon as next week, opening the door to further diplomacy even as President Donald Trump masses military forces in the region."

In contrast with the Wall Street Journal and Bloomberg reports, Oman's foreign minister reported that Iran had offered zero stockpiles of enriched uranium along with "full and comprehensive verification by the IAEA", which would ensure that Iran would never have a nuclear bomb. He said, "The single most important achievement, I believe, is the agreement that Iran will never ever have nuclear material that will create a bomb", He further stated that “Now we are talking about zero stockpiling, and that is very, very important because if you cannot stockpile material that is enriched, then there is no way that you can actually create a bomb.”

While the U.S. reinforced its military forces in the Middle East and anticipated attacks on its oil terminals ahead of the third round of talks, the Iranians accelerated loading tankers with 20 million oil barrels in 6 days, for export purposes. The Iranian security commission said they would drag all the countries in the region into war. On February 27, a day before the American and Israeli strikes began, a number of embassies were evacuated from Iran as the U.S. State Department declared Iran a state sponsor of wrongful detention. According to the White House, Iran rejected a proposal for a civilian nuclear program with American investment in exchange for dismantling its nuclear program.

4th round

Before the strikes against Iran, a fourth round of talks had been scheduled for the week following the third round. These talks were due to take place in Vienna, Austria. Prior to the strikes, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told state TV that technical teams would meet in Vienna starting Monday, together with experts from the International Atomic Energy Agency.

During the 2026 Iran war

On Saturday, February 28, 2026, the U.S. and Israel started a war against Iran by launched airstrikes targeting key officials, military commanders, military sites and government buildings, as well as inflicting civilian casualties. Iran responded by launching missiles against Israel and American military bases in the Middle East, as well as civilian targets. Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and a number of Iranian officials, including the Minister of Defense Aziz Nasirzadeh, and the head of Iran's Revolutionary Guard Mohammad Pakpour, were killed in the strikes. After the U.S.-Israeli attack on Iran, Omani foreign minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi said that he was dismayed and that "active and serious negotiations" had been undermined.

On March 1, 2026, the day after the U.S. and Israel started an air war against Iran, Donald Trump claimed that Iranian leaders wanted to resume negotiations and that he had agreed. Ali Larijani, the Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council of Iran, ruled out any talks. Trump wrote on March 6: "There will be no deal with Iran except UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER!" On March 9, Trump said that "the war is very complete, pretty much", and falsely claimed that the Iranian military had been destroyed and the Strait of Hormuz had re-opened. On March 21, it was reported that the U.S. was preparing for potential peace talks with Iran, with six demands that Iran would need to accept. However, Iran seemed unwilling to negotiate, and they had previously rejected several of the demands.

On March 23, Trump postponed the ultimatum he had given on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, citing "very good and productive conversations" with Iran. He said the U.S. has been speaking to "a top person" in Iran and claimed "They called, I didn't call. They want to make a deal, and we are very willing to make a deal". The IRGC-affiliated Fars News denied there had been any negotiations with Trump. The Iranian foreign ministry said it was reviewing proposals from the U.S. sent through mediators. The swift denial of talks by Iran suggests deep mistrust of the U.S. because the last two negotiations were both disrupted by Israel and the U.S. launching a war on Iran. Tasnim News Agency, affiliated with the IRGC, suggested that the U.S. was trying to sow division within Iran by proposing secret talks with only part of its political establishment. Iran International, affiliated with the Iranian opposition, suggested that Trump was deliberately being vague and not naming which Iranians were negotiating, as a way to sow mistrust and division within the Iranian regime.

Trump again claimed on March 24, that the U.S. and Israel had "won" the war, even though both sides continued their attacks and the Hormuz Strait remained closed. Abdolrahim Mousavi Abdollahi, commander of the Iranian Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, said that the U.S. and Israel had failed and were now seeking a way out of the war, vowing that Iran would continue fighting until "full victory". Ebrahim Zolfaghari, spokesman for the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, rejected negotiations and said the U.S. must accept "that regional stability is guaranteed by Iran's armed forces".

On March 25, Pakistani officials passed on a "15-point proposal" from the U.S. to Iran, and Pakistan later confirmed that it was mediating between the sides in ongoing negotiations. The U.S. proposal included an end to Iran's nuclear program, limits on its missiles, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, restrictions on Iran's support for armed groups, and sanctions relief for Iran. The Iranians rejected the U.S. proposal, with an anonymous official telling Press TV that "Iran will end the war when it decides to do so and when its own conditions are met". The Iranians issued a "5-point counter-proposal", including an end to U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran and pro-Iranian forces in Lebanon and Iraq, security guarantees to prevent future Israeli and U.S. aggression, war reparations, and international recognition of Iranian sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz. Another report said that Iranian officials were demanding the U.S. close its bases in the Persian Gulf. A U.S. official reportedly described the Iranian demands as "ridiculous and unrealistic." On March 26, Trump said that Iran was "begging" for a deal.

Trump said on March 29 that Iran had agreed to most of the U.S. demands. The next day, he said the U.S. was "in serious discussions with A NEW, AND MORE REASONABLE, REGIME" in Iran and had made "great progress". In the same statement, he threatened to destroy all of Iran's power plants, oil wells and desalination plants if a deal was not reached "shortly" and the Hormuz strait not reopened "immediately". On the same day, Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said that Iran would not give in to "surrender" terms from the U.S. He accused Washington of sending mixed signals, saying "The enemy publicly sends messages of negotiation and dialogue, and in secret plans for a ground attack". On March 30, the Iranian foreign ministry acknowledged they had been holding indirect talks with the U.S. through Pakistani intermediaries but called the American positions "excessive and unreasonable." According to The Wall Street Journal, Qatar declined an offer to lead the negotiations.

Trump claimed on April 1 that Iran had just asked the U.S. for a ceasefire. He said the U.S. would consider it, but only once the Strait of Hormuz was "open, free, and clear. Until then, we are blasting Iran into oblivion or, as they say, back to the Stone Ages!". Iran's foreign ministry called the claim "false and baseless". The IRGC separately said that strait "will not be opened to the enemies of this nation through the ridiculous spectacle by the president of the United States". On April 5, Trump threatened to attack Iran's power plants and bridges if the Hormuz Strait was not reopened in two days. The following day, indirect talks involving Iran and the U.S., mediated by Pakistan in Islamabad, led to a proposal for a 45-day ceasefire. Iran rejected the ceasefire plan, calling for a permanent solution to the war. An Iranian proposal consisted of 10 clauses, which included a protocol for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, an end to all conflicts in the region, the lifting of sanctions, and reconstruction. Later that day, Trump said "They made a ... significant proposal. Not good enough, but they have made a very significant step. We will see what happens". On April 7, Trump threatened, "A whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back", if Iran did not reach an agreement with the U.S.

The U.S. and Iran announced that a two-week ceasefire would begin on April 8 to hold further negotiations. Later that day, Israel launched massive airstrikes on Lebanon. Iranian officials and Pakistani mediators said that the ceasefire includes Lebanon, and Iran said it would end the ceasefire if Israel continued its attacks. Iranian national security adviser Mahdi Mohammadi said, "Without fully restraining America's rabid dog in Lebanon, there will be no ceasefire or negotiations, and the missiles are ready to launch". Israel said the ceasefire did not include Lebanon. On April 9, Israel agreed to hold direct talks with the Lebanese government after U.S. pressure but indicated that it would not observe the ceasefire in Lebanon.

After the ceasefire announcement, Trump claimed that the Iranians were "agreeing to all the things that they have to agree to. Remember, they've been conquered. They have no military." Sultan Al Jaber, industry minister of the United Arab Emirates and chief executive of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, said on 9 April that "the Strait of Hormuz is not open. Access is being restricted, conditioned and controlled" by Iran. According to one report, Iran lost track of mines it planted in the Strait of Hormuz, and it is therefore unable to fully open the Strait. The U.S. began a naval operation to clear the Strait from mines.

On April 11, Vice President JD Vance with Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner arrived in Islamabad for peace talks with Iranian officials. The Iranian delegation, which includes Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and the speaker of Iran's Parliament Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf arrived there earlier. On April 12, Vance left Pakistan, saying that the negotiations ended without agreement. Iranian spokesman for the Foreign Ministry Esmail Baghaei said that the talks ended with gaps between the sides on several major issues. Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said that the U.S. did not succeed in gaining the trust of the Iranians during the talks.

Following the failure of the Islamabad Talks, Trump announced that the US would impose its own naval blockade of all Iranian ports from 13 April. Trump said that he "doesn't care" about negotiations with Iran. On 14 April, it was reported that US and Iranian teams were returning to Islamabad for talks to take place later in the week.

Reactions

Iran

BBC reported that Araghchi stated he wanted to speak with Europeans in Berlin, Paris and London. Khamenei told his supporters not to protest or insult the talks and that these talks are just a delay until the Islamic Shiite state is established. Mehdi Kouchakzadeh stated that the Iranian parliament had received no official information about the ongoing negotiations. He added that, although the outcome was unfavorable, they would not oppose it. The Iranian Rial slightly gained and the Tehran Stock Exchange rose 2.16%. The pro-government newspaper Kayhan claimed that Iran had the upper hand, that nuclear disrmament was impossible, and called for the assassination of Trump. The talks also caused division and drift among members of the ultra extremist Front of Islamic Revolution Stability party. Iran charged two newspaper media executives for their coverage of the talks.

Among the opposition, Reza Pahlavi called on the United States to take out the vulnerable and unstable Iranian regime rather than engaging in talks. Iranian dissidents and social media users have increasingly speculated that the former U.S. embassy in Tehran, seized in 1979 might be returned to American control. Opposition outlet Kayhan London described the talks as a major failure of the Iranian regime, and believed that the Iranian people is gaining the upper hand.

Many Iranians within the country have urged Trump to not engage in negotiations with the Iranian government, but rather to support "a nationwide struggle for freedom and democracy." An Iranian man posted a video in English begging Trump and Western governments to not negotiate with Iran before he committed suicide. On 18 February 2026, an analysis published in Axios said that there were no signs of a breakthrough in negotiations, making war look the most likely option.

Since the outbreak of the 2026 Iran war, reactions have been very mixed among the Iranian public. Some Iranians have supported the war, with government supporters calling it a "holy war" and opponents believing it would further weaken the Islamic Republic. On the other hand, others have rejected war because of the physical and emotional devastation, and instead called for a ceasefire. The reactions to the 2026 Iran war ceasefire has also been very mixed, with some feeling disappointed about the lack of change in the country's internal crisis, while others are relieved about the pause in fighting. Most respondents expressed uncertainty about domestic effects of the ceasefire, including the effects it will have on the national internet blackout, towards state executions in Iran, and for the possibilities of regime change from the Iranian opposition.

Ebrahim Rezaei, spokesman for the Iranian parliament’s national security committee, said that Iran will not agree to extend the ceasefire if it does not include Iranian control of the Strait of Hormuz.

United States

In May 2025, the national survey Rasmussen Reports reported that 57% of Americans supported an attack on Iran. Former chief negotiator and Secretary of State John Kerry commended Trump's effort and compared the negotiations to "Khomeini poisoned chalice". White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has stated that should Iran develop nukes, there will be "all hell to pay". On April 18, Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged European countries to quickly decide on reimposing sanctions against Iran, warning that Iran is violating the existing agreement and nearing the capability to develop a nuclear weapon. Rubio later also said Iran can have a civilian nuclear energy program instead of a military WMD atomic weapons program. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and national security advisor Mike Waltz were reportedly divided on whether U.S. military should attack Iran. Trump told reporters he was in no rush to attack Iran and it still has a chance to "live happily without death". He also said the U.S. would lead the pack in possibly attacking Iran and that there are only two alternatives, bombing them viciously or nicely, and that he was still undecided.

Former special representative for Iran Elliott Abrams argued that Trump did not seek war. However, should the talks fail, Iran's nuclear program should be destroyed by Israel and/or the U.S. Political commentator Tucker Carlson argued this was the worst time for U.S. military intervention in Iran. It was reported that Witkoff and Kushner told Trump that it would be "difficult, if not impossible" to reach a deal with Iran. After talks fell through, leading to the armed conflict, Witkoff blamed Iran for trying to "strong-arm" the U.S. team, and said the Iranian insistence on enrichment hampered a deal. He also claimed the Iranians boasted about having deceived monitors. During the 2026 State of the Union Address, Trump said that he preferred a diplomatic solution, but he would not allow Iran to get nuclear weapons.

International

Global gold prices grew given reports of high chances of war. Initially oil futures prices dropped 1.4%. Saudi Arabia praised the negotiations at further restraining Iran. Israel supported deweaponization of Iranian atomic energy establishments following a "Libya model" like that of the disarmament of Libya. Trump revealed Israel would lead a military attack on Iran if it failed to abandon its nuclear weapons program. Al Monitor reported that China had also come to support the Iranian government through strengthened relations.

In March 2026, The Guardian reported that UK National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell had secretly attended U.S.–Iran nuclear negotiations in Geneva, accompanied by a technical team from the Cabinet Office. The report stated that Powell's assessment indicated a diplomatic breakthrough was possible. Additionally, the publication cited a Gulf diplomat who alleged that U.S. intermediaries Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner were acting in Israeli interests to pressure the United States into a military confrontation.

Oman's Foreign Minister and lead mediator Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi commented after the outbreak of hostilities in March 2026, that negotiations over the nuclear programme had been making progress and continued, that the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran was solely an attempt to reorder the Middle East in Israel's favour. In a March 2026 opinion piece for The Economist, Badr Albusaidi claimed the United States had "lost control of its own foreign policy" and accused Israel of persuading the Trump administration to engage in a war with Iran, which he termed a "grave miscalculation" and a "catastrophe".

See also

• 2025–2026 Iranian protests
• 2025 United States–Houthi ceasefire
• Abraham Accords
• Iran Nuclear Achievements Protection Act
• Iran Prosperity Project
• Iranian financial crisis
• List of diplomatic missions of Iran
• Middle Eastern crisis (2023–present)
• Nuclear Command Corps
• Port of Shahid Rajaee explosion
• Supreme Nuclear Committee of Iran
• 2025 Iran–European nuclear talks
• 2026 United States military buildup in the Middle East
• 2026 Iran war

External links

• Long fraught timeline of tensions between Iran and the U.S.
• Briefing
• Video
• File:14040126 66988 l.webm
• File:14040204 67033 l.webm
• Abbas Araghchi’s X profile