Araghchi-Witkoff meet was limited to handshake, courtesy: Tasnim
TL;DR
U.S.-Iran nuclear talks ended with minimal progress, as negotiators only exchanged a handshake. Both sides expressed cautious optimism but acknowledged significant gaps, amid heightened military tensions and economic risks.
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Araghchi-Witkoff meet was limited to handshake, courtesy: Tasnim
U.S.-Iran Nuclear Talks Remain Deadlocked Amid Limited Engagement
The latest round of indirect nuclear negotiations between the United States and Iran concluded on February 17, 2026, with minimal tangible progress, as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff limited their interaction to a brief handshake, according to Tasnim News Agency. The talks, mediated by Oman, focused on resolving the long-standing nuclear dispute but failed to produce a formal agreement or clear roadmap for future discussions.
Both sides emphasized cautious optimism. Araghchi stated that the talks were "more constructive" than previous rounds and that a "general understanding on guiding principles" had been reached, though he acknowledged significant gaps remain. U.S. officials, speaking anonymously, confirmed progress but provided no specifics, noting Iran would submit detailed proposals within two weeks. However, the lack of direct engagement between key negotiators—such as Witkoff and Iranian representatives—highlighted the fragile nature of the dialogue.
The negotiations unfolded against a backdrop of heightened military posturing. The U.S. has deployed two aircraft carriers, over 50 fighter jets, and the USS Gerald R. Ford to the region, while Iran conducted naval drills in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. Iranian officials reiterated that talks must focus strictly on nuclear issues, rejecting U.S. demands to address ballistic missile programs or regional proxy activities. Meanwhile, U.S. Vice President JD Vance stated the administration seeks a diplomatic resolution but warned all options remain on the table.
Economic and geopolitical risks remain elevated. Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium exceeds 400 kg, and Tehran has signaled reluctance to dilute or export the material, a key U.S. demand. U.S. sanctions relief and verifiable limits on Iran's nuclear program remain central to the impasse. Regional allies, including Israel and Gulf states, fear a potential U.S. strike could trigger retaliatory Iranian actions, destabilizing energy markets and global trade routes.
With no immediate resolution in sight, investors are closely monitoring diplomatic developments and military movements, as tensions in the Middle East continue to weigh on global financial markets.
