– Iran has tentatively agreed to resume nuclear talks with the United States, a move prompted by threats of further military strikes from Washington, according to multiple sources. This development marks the first such negotiations since the Trump administration bombed three Iranian nuclear sites last summer and a subsequent 12-day conflict with Israel.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian announced the decision on X, stating he has instructed Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to “pursue fair and equitable negotiations,” provided a “suitable environment” exists – one free from threats and unreasonable expectations. Pezeshkian emphasized that these negotiations would be guided by the principles of dignity, prudence and expediency, and conducted within the framework of Iran’s national interests. He cited “requests from friendly governments in the region” as the impetus for reconsidering talks.
The planned meeting, scheduled for in Istanbul, will see Araghchi meet with U.S. Special Representative Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Several Middle Eastern nations are also expected to participate, including Turkey, Qatar, Egypt, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan, according to one U.S. Official.
The move comes as U.S. President Donald Trump has increased military pressure on Tehran, deploying a naval armada to the Persian Gulf and renewing threats of strikes if a new nuclear deal is not reached. Trump reportedly ordered the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier and three guided-missile destroyers, accompanied by additional troops, following protests within Iran.
Iran has indicated a willingness to show flexibility on uranium enrichment, potentially including handing over 400 kilograms of highly enriched uranium (HEU) and accepting zero enrichment under an international consortium arrangement. However, Iran has dismissed proposals to extend the United Nations resolution underpinning the 2015 nuclear accord, which is nearing its expiration.
While Pezeshkian has authorized the negotiations, ultimate authority in Iran rests with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has warned that any U.S. Strike on Iran would result in a regional war. This underscores the delicate balance between the president’s willingness to engage in diplomacy and the hardline stance maintained by the Supreme Leader.
The resumption of talks follows a period of heightened tension, including a 12-day war in June 2025 initiated by Israel, in which the United States participated with the bombing of Iranian nuclear facilities. The current diplomatic push is reportedly the result of coordination between Turkey, Egypt, and Qatar, the same countries that brokered the Gaza ceasefire.
According to Iranian officials, Tehran is optimistic that a deal can be reached if the goal is to ensure Iran does not develop nuclear weapons. However, Iran insists there should be no preconditions for the talks and that the U.S. Must rebuild trust.
The White House and the State Department have not yet responded to requests for comment. Regional diplomats caution that the details of the Istanbul meeting are still being arranged and could change. One diplomat noted, “It’s not set in stone.”
The potential for renewed negotiations represents a significant, though fragile, shift in the dynamic between the U.S. And Iran. The outcome of the talks in Istanbul will be closely watched by regional and international actors, as the stakes remain high – preventing a wider conflict and addressing concerns over Iran’s nuclear program.
In light of requests from friendly governments in the region to respond to the proposal by the President of the United States for negotiations:
— Masoud Pezeshkian (@drpezeshkian) February 3, 2026
