US Issues Stern Warning to Iran Amid Stalled Nuclear Talks

The recent round of nuclear negotiations between the US and Iran in Geneva ended without any agreement, leading to heightened tensions. The US has warned Iran against developing nuclear weapons, threatening military action if necessary. As both sides remain at an impasse, analysts predict that failure to reach a resolution could escalate conflicts in the Middle East. With rising oil prices and countries advising their citizens to leave Iran, the situation poses a significant challenge to regional security. Read on to explore the implications of these stalled talks and the potential for military escalation.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 28, 2026, 13:16 IST

US-Iran Nuclear Negotiations End Without Agreement

In Geneva, Switzerland, indirect discussions between the United States and Iran regarding Iran's nuclear program concluded on Thursday without reaching any substantial agreement. This marked the third round of talks, during which both parties engaged in lengthy discussions, yet remained deadlocked on key issues.

During the negotiations, the US demanded that Iran completely dismantle its primary nuclear facilities, including Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, and transfer enriched uranium to the US or abroad. The US also sought a permanent agreement without a time limit, offering minimal sanctions relief in return. Conversely, Iran insisted on the removal of all US and UN sanctions and emphasized its right to uranium enrichment, outright rejecting the US demands.

Oman's Foreign Minister, Badr Albusaidi, who mediated the talks, described the discussions as 'positive' and noted 'significant progress,' announcing plans to continue technical-level talks in Vienna next week. However, US President Donald Trump expressed his dissatisfaction with Iran's stance, reiterating that Iran should not develop nuclear weapons, warning of 'severe consequences' if they do. He cautioned that failure to reach an agreement could lead to military action, potentially igniting a major conflict in the Middle East.

The US has already deployed its largest military presence in the Middle East since the Iraq War, which includes aircraft carriers, warships, and thousands of troops. Iran has responded by stating that any attack would be met with a 'devastating war,' targeting US bases in the region.

In his State of the Union address, Trump highlighted Iran's missile program as a threat capable of reaching the US, increasing pressure on the nation. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran is prepared for both peace and war, maintaining that its nuclear program is peaceful.

Analysts believe that the failure of these talks could escalate tensions further. If the next round also fails, the likelihood of limited or large-scale attacks by the US or Israel may increase. Globally, oil prices are rising, and several countries are advising their citizens to leave Iran.

This situation poses a serious challenge to security in the Middle East, where tensions between Israel and Iran, along with proxy conflicts, are already ongoing.