Geneva – Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) held “in-depth technical discussions” on Monday, February 16, 2026, as tensions persist over Iran’s nuclear program, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced. The talks, held in Geneva, Switzerland, reach as Iran continues to seek assurances regarding the future of cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog and amid ongoing negotiations with the United States.
Araghchi stated via X, formerly known as Twitter, that he met with IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi for the discussions, which included participation from nuclear experts from both sides. The meeting follows a renewed dialogue between Iran and the U.S. That began earlier this month in Oman, spurred by recent threats of military action from U.S. President Donald Trump, according to CNN Arabic. The current round of talks aims to address the framework for future inspections and cooperation, particularly in light of concerns raised following an alleged Israeli-American attack on Iranian nuclear facilities in June 2025.
The discussions are taking place against a backdrop of evolving agreements between Iran and the IAEA. In September 2025, Araghchi stated that a modern agreement with the IAEA did not currently permit inspectors access to Iranian nuclear sites, according to Al Jazeera. He emphasized that the nature of future site visits would be determined through further negotiations. A key aspect of the agreement, Araghchi noted, was recognition that cooperation between Iran and the IAEA needed to operate within a new framework.
Shifting Cooperation and Security Concerns
Iran officially suspended its cooperation with the IAEA, prompting a statement from Araghchi in February 2026 that cooperation would “seize a new form,” as reported by Sky News Arabia. This shift follows the passage of a new law requiring approval from Iran’s Supreme National Security Council – the country’s highest security body – for any future inspections of Iranian nuclear sites. Araghchi explained that access to sites previously targeted in attacks is now considered a matter of national security and safety.
The Iranian Foreign Minister reiterated Iran’s right to uranium enrichment, adding that they are “studying the details of potential talks regarding the Iranian nuclear program.” He too acknowledged that while cooperation with the IAEA would continue, requests would be considered “on a case-by-case basis… taking into account safety and security issues.” Araghchi highlighted concerns about the potential for the spread of radioactive materials and the risk of explosions from remaining ordnance at the sites, according to Sky News Arabia.
Broader Negotiations and Potential Agreements
Beyond the IAEA discussions, Iran is also exploring potential agreements with the United States encompassing energy, mining, and aircraft, as reported by Al Arabiya. These broader negotiations, mediated by Oman’s Foreign Minister Bader Al Busaidi, represent a multifaceted attempt to de-escalate tensions and address a range of economic and security concerns.
Araghchi expressed optimism about reaching a “just and fair” agreement, stating that Iran has “real ideas” to achieve this outcome, according to Al Sharq. However, the specifics of these ideas and the potential for a breakthrough remain unclear.
The outcome of these discussions will be closely watched by the international community, as they have significant implications for regional stability and the future of the Iran nuclear deal. The next procedural step will be further technical discussions between Iranian and IAEA experts, aimed at establishing a concrete framework for future cooperation and inspections.
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