What's happened
As of February 10, 2026, Iran has intensified its crackdown on reformist figures and activists following deadly protests, arresting key opposition members including Javad Emam and Hossein Karoubi. This repression coincides with ongoing nuclear talks with the US in Oman, where Iran signaled possible concessions on uranium enrichment in exchange for sanctions relief.
What's behind the headline?
Dual Strategy Amid Crisis
Iran is pursuing a two-pronged approach: suppressing internal dissent while engaging in cautious diplomacy with the US. The arrests of reformist leaders like Javad Emam and Hossein Karoubi, alongside activists and filmmakers, demonstrate Tehran's intent to stifle opposition voices that challenge the regime's authority after the protests. This crackdown aims to consolidate power internally by eliminating perceived threats.
Diplomatic Signaling and Nuclear Negotiations
Simultaneously, Iran's offer to dilute its 60% enriched uranium stockpile signals a willingness to negotiate nuclear constraints in exchange for sanctions relief. This move is strategic, aiming to reduce the risk of military conflict with the US while maintaining its nuclear program's civilian facade. However, Iran insists on its sovereign right to uranium enrichment, complicating talks.
Regional and Global Implications
The timing of these arrests ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's Washington visit underscores heightened regional tensions. Netanyahu plans to brief US President Trump on Iran's nuclear and missile programs, emphasizing Israel's security concerns. Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei's call for national resolve against foreign pressure reflects the regime's defiance and readiness to confront external threats.
Human Rights and International Response
The international community faces a dilemma: balancing pressure on Iran over human rights abuses with the strategic imperative of nuclear diplomacy. The sentencing of Nobel laureate Narges Mohammadi and the harsh treatment of protesters highlight ongoing repression. Yet, the US has not publicly prioritized these abuses during negotiations, focusing instead on nuclear and regional security issues.
Forecast
Iran will likely continue its internal crackdown to prevent reformist momentum while cautiously advancing nuclear talks to avoid military escalation. The US and its allies must navigate this complex landscape, weighing human rights concerns against geopolitical stability. The coming weeks will be critical as Netanyahu's briefing and further negotiations in Oman shape the trajectory of US-Iran relations.
What the papers say
France 24 reports that Iran's arrests of reformist figures, including Javad Emam, occurred shortly after positive talks with the US in Oman, highlighting Tehran's dual approach of repression and diplomacy. The outlet quotes Iranian officials discussing potential uranium dilution contingent on sanctions relief, underscoring the nuclear negotiation's centrality.
The Times of Israel adds regional context, noting Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's imminent Washington visit to brief President Trump on Iran's nuclear and missile programs. It emphasizes Iran's defiant rhetoric from Supreme Leader Khamenei and the regime's framing of protests as foreign-instigated riots.
Al Jazeera details the arrests of prominent reformists and activists, including Azar Mansouri and Mohsen Aminzadeh, and provides insight into the government's narrative blaming foreign enemies. It also covers the human toll of the protests, citing official and independent death tolls, and reports on Iran's internet blackout's economic impact.
The Independent focuses on individual cases like Erfan Soltani, a protester facing execution who was recently released on bail, illustrating the regime's harsh judicial measures amid international scrutiny. It also contextualizes the protests' scale and the regime's violent response.
AP News highlights the broad crackdown on reformists and activists, quoting experts like Ali Vaez who interpret the arrests as an attempt to extinguish dissent before it gains traction. It also notes the US military buildup in the region and Iran's warnings of potential conflict.
Together, these sources provide a multifaceted view of Iran's internal repression, diplomatic maneuvers, and the regional security environment, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of the unfolding crisis.
How we got here
Since late December 2025, Iran has faced widespread protests triggered by economic hardship and political dissent. The government responded with a violent crackdown, killing thousands and arresting tens of thousands. Amid this unrest, Iran and the US began indirect nuclear negotiations in Oman, seeking to ease tensions despite Tehran's domestic repression.
Go deeper
- What triggered the recent protests in Iran?
- How are the US and Iran negotiating on the nuclear issue?
- What impact do these arrests have on Iran's political future?
Common question
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Why Did Iran Arrest Reform Politicians Now?
Iran's recent crackdown on reformist politicians has raised many questions. Why are these figures being detained now, and what does it mean for Iran's political future? In this page, we explore the reasons behind these arrests, who the politicians are, and how this fits into the ongoing protests and tensions with the US and regional powers. Keep reading to understand the complex situation unfolding in Iran today.
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Why is Iran arresting reformists now?
Iran's recent crackdown on reformist figures has raised many questions. Why are authorities targeting opposition members amid ongoing protests and diplomatic talks? Understanding the timing and motives behind these arrests can shed light on Iran's internal politics and its approach to international negotiations. Below, we explore the key reasons behind these actions and what they mean for Iran's future.
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