Iran’s president, Masoud Pezeshkian, said on Tuesday that Tehran is ready to pursue “fair” talks with the United States, instructing his foreign minister to engage in negotiations as reports emerged that senior officials from both countries may meet in Istanbul later this week over Iran’s nuclear programme. Pezeshkian said he had directed Iran’s foreign ministry to move forward if conditions allow, stressing the need for talks without pressure. Multiple reports say Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, and US envoy Steve Witkoff could meet on Friday in Istanbul, alongside representatives from several Arab and Muslim countries, to discuss a potential nuclear deal. Satellite imagery released last week showed repair work at Iran’s Isfahan and Natanz nuclear sites after the June strikes. Saudi and Israeli officials met US defence officials last week to discuss possible scenarios, while Iran has warned it would respond to any US attack.

Source: Nigerian Tribune February 03, 2026 12:59 UTC