Iranian foreign minister says US deal is still ‘quite possible’
The Hill
by Tara SuterFebruary 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressed optimism about the possibility of reaching a nuclear deal with the United States, despite recent tensions between the two countries. During a press conference, he emphasized that while negotiations have faced challenges, a agreement remains "quite possible." Araghchi also raised questions about whether Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei had approved a draft proposal floated by U.S. officials, signaling ongoing discussions about the terms of a potential deal.
The remarks come amid heightened tensions following the U.S.'s withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), a 2015 nuclear agreement that Iran partially withdrew from after former President Donald Trump's administration abandoned it. Since then, Iran has gradually increased its uranium enrichment activities, raising concerns among international partners and Western observers about its commitment to non-proliferation.
Araghchi's comments reflect Iran's cautious approach to negotiations, with the country insisting on the lifting of sanctions and fair terms as a precondition for any agreement. He also reiterated that Iran remains committed to its nuclear program under the framework of international agreements like the JCPOA, which ensures transparency and compliance with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) standards.
The outcome of these discussions is crucial not only for U.S.-Iran relations but also for regional stability and global security. A successful deal could pave the way for easing tensions in the Middle East, improving oil supplies, and strengthening diplomatic ties between Iran and its allies, including Russia and China. On the other hand, failure to reach an agreement could escalate tensions, leading to renewed sanctions and potentially broader conflicts
Verticals
politicsnews
Originally published on The Hill on 2/22/2026