Iran's FM: Deal with US within reach 'only if diplomacy is given priority' – RTRS
TL;DR
Iran's Foreign Minister states a U.S. nuclear deal is possible if diplomacy is prioritized, ahead of talks to revive stalled negotiations. A successful agreement could ease sanctions and stabilize markets, but challenges and concessions remain.
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Iran's FM: Deal with US within reach 'only if diplomacy is given priority' – RTRS
Iran’s Foreign Minister Signals Potential for U.S. Nuclear Deal, Emphasizes Diplomacy
According to reports, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on February 19, 2026, that a nuclear agreement with the United States is "within reach," provided both sides prioritize diplomatic efforts. The remarks come ahead of scheduled talks aimed at revitalizing negotiations over Iran's nuclear program, which have remained stalled since the Trump administration's 2018 withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
Araghchi highlighted the potential for a "historic opportunity to strike an unprecedented agreement that addresses mutual concerns and achieves mutual interests" in a post on X. His comments suggest a willingness to engage constructively, though they also underscore the conditional nature of progress—reiterating that diplomatic engagement must take precedence over adversarial posturing.
The prospect of renewed negotiations has sparked cautious optimism in financial markets, where investors have long anticipated a resolution to the geopolitical tensions between Iran and the U.S. A successful deal could ease sanctions on Iran, potentially boosting its oil exports and stabilizing regional energy markets. Conversely, prolonged uncertainty has constrained investment in Iran's energy sector and contributed to volatility in global oil prices.
Analysts note that any agreement would require significant concessions from both parties, including Iran's compliance with enhanced nuclear inspections and the U.S. reversing key sanctions. The outcome of upcoming talks will likely influence investor sentiment, particularly in sectors tied to Middle Eastern trade and energy.
While Araghchi's statements signal a diplomatic opening, challenges remain. Both nations must navigate domestic political pressures and diverging priorities. For now, the emphasis on diplomacy offers a framework for progress, though the path to a final agreement remains uncertain.
This article is based on publicly available information as of February 24, 2026.
