Trump Says Iran ‘Wants a Deal’ Ahead of Second Round of Nuclear Talks

by | Feb 17, 2026 | News

President Donald Trump said he believes Iran wants to reach a nuclear agreement, as top US envoys departed for Geneva for a second round of talks.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said he would be “indirectly involved” in the negotiations, calling them “very important.”

“I think they want to make a deal,” Trump said. “I don’t think they want the consequences of not making a deal.”

He described Iranian negotiators as “tough” but expressed hope they would be “more reasonable” than in previous discussions, which ended without an agreement and were followed by US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.

The Geneva talks will again involve senior US officials and Iranian representatives in indirect negotiations aimed at reviving limits on Iran’s nuclear program.

Trump also commented on an upcoming Board of Peace meeting, suggesting its focus would extend “far beyond Gaza.” He indicated the US hopes to work with the United Nations amid concerns Washington may seek to sideline the international body.

When asked whether Israel should lift restrictions on foreign media reporting in Gaza, Trump avoided a direct answer, saying broadly that “a lot of bans” would soon be lifted.

“You’re going to see everything opening up,” Trump said. “We essentially have peace in the Middle East,” despite acknowledging isolated flare-ups.

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