By Micah Jonah
February 17, 2026
Iranian Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi has sharply criticized European powers, calling them “irrelevant” in nuclear negotiations with the United States. Writing on X, he dismissed the Munich Security Conference as a “circus” and accused the E3 France, the United Kingdom, and Germany of paralysis in diplomatic efforts.
Araghchi said regional Gulf countries, including Oman and Qatar, have been more effective mediators, leading recent indirect talks between Tehran and Washington. He will head a delegation to Geneva for the next round of negotiations, meeting Swiss and Omani officials as well as the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Grossi.
Analysts say Araghchi’s remarks signal a shift away from Europe as a key intermediary, with heavy diplomatic work now handled by regional actors. Despite renewed talks, key issues remain contentious: the US seeks discussions on Iran’s ballistic missiles and support for regional armed groups, which Tehran considers nonnegotiable.
The negotiations follow a pause last year caused by a 12-day war between Israel and Iran, during which the US conducted airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Tensions remain high as the US continues to reinforce military presence in the Middle East.
