Timeline
February 15, 2026 — February 16, 2026
World
Timeline: How US-Iran Nuclear Deal Negotiations Unfolded Over 48 Hours
This timeline tracks the rapid diplomatic developments between the United States and Iran regarding nuclear negotiations in mid-February 2026. Following initial talks in Oman, Iran publicly signaled willingness to compromise on its enriched uranium stockpile in exchange for sanctions relief, while both sides prepared for a crucial second round of negotiations in Geneva. The timeline captures the delicate balance between diplomatic overtures and military preparations.
9 events · 1 days · 30 source articles
Fri, Feb 6, 2026
Major
First Round of Nuclear Talks Resume in Oman
Iran and the United States resumed negotiations on Iran's nuclear program in Oman after years of stalled diplomacy. This marked the beginning of renewed dialogue between the two nations on their decades-long nuclear dispute. The talks were facilitated by Oman serving as an intermediary.
Sun, Feb 15, 2026
Major
Iran Signals Willingness to Compromise on Enriched Uranium
Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi told the BBC that Iran is ready to consider compromises on its nuclear program, including diluting its stockpile of highly enriched uranium, if the US is willing to discuss lifting sanctions. This marked the first time a senior Iranian negotiator publicly conceded willingness to compromise on the nuclear program, suggesting potential progress.
Sun, Feb 15, 2026
Major
Iran Confirms Tuesday Talks in Geneva
Takht-Ravanchi confirmed that the next round of indirect negotiations would take place on Tuesday in Geneva, though Iran had not yet officially confirmed this publicly. He stated that "the ball is in America's court to prove that they want to do a deal" and expressed confidence that an agreement could be reached if the US shows sincerity.
Sun, Feb 15, 2026
Moderate
Iran Suggests US Privately Softened Stance on Uranium
The Iranian deputy foreign minister suggested that the US had privately indicated willingness to allow Iran to keep some enriched uranium, despite President Trump's public zero-tolerance stance. This revelation hinted at potential flexibility in the American negotiating position behind closed doors.
Sun, Feb 15, 2026
Major
US Deploys Second Aircraft Carrier to Middle East
US officials confirmed that Washington had dispatched a second aircraft carrier to the region and was preparing for the possibility of a sustained military campaign if negotiations failed. This military posturing occurred parallel to diplomatic efforts, demonstrating the high stakes of the talks.
Sun, Feb 15, 2026
Moderate
Iran Proposes Economic Benefits for Both Sides
An Iranian Foreign Ministry official stated that Iran is pursuing a nuclear agreement that would deliver economic benefits for both sides, including potential deals in oil and gas fields, mining investments, and aircraft purchases. The official noted that the 2015 nuclear deal had failed to provide tangible economic benefits for the US, which may have contributed to its collapse.
Sun, Feb 15, 2026
Moderate
US Secretary of State Expresses Cautious Optimism
Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated at a press conference in Bratislava that President Trump would prefer diplomacy and a negotiated settlement, but acknowledged that achieving a deal would be "very hard to do" with Iran. Rubio cited Iranian leaders making decisions based on "pure theology" as a complicating factor.
Mon, Feb 16, 2026
Major
Iranian Foreign Minister Arrives in Geneva for Talks
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Geneva leading a delegation of diplomats and experts for the second round of nuclear negotiations. State television confirmed his arrival, and he was scheduled to meet with Swiss and Omani counterparts as well as IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi.
Mon, Feb 16, 2026
Moderate
White House Confirms Witkoff and Kushner Leading US Delegation
The White House confirmed that Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff and the president's son-in-law Jared Kushner would lead the American delegation in Geneva. This high-level representation underscored the importance the Trump administration placed on these negotiations.
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