Iran on Monday denied reports that it is nearing a temporary agreement with the United States over its nuclear programme, as the foreign ministry confirmed Tehran is preparing for a potential new round of negotiations within days. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei told a news conference that reports of an imminent interim deal were”nothing more than speculation” and that Iran does not confirm any such claims. He characterised US statements regarding Iran’s enrichment levels and negotiation deadlines as “contradictory” and a “major obstacle” to the diplomatic process. “If we look at the matter in good faith, we would consider it a linguistic error,” Baghaei said regarding Witkoff’s claims. The IAEA has reportedly discussed practical proposals with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi regarding sites hit by Israeli and US strikes last June.

Source: Daily News Egypt February 23, 2026 18:11 UTC